- By Aditi Priya Singh
- Mon, 11 Aug 2025 05:42 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Top 10 Richest Film Directors In India: Indian cinema has long been renowned for its grand narratives, emotional content and spectacular visuals. Every blockbuster has a visionary director who makes the story come to life. These directors are among the wealthiest individuals in the business, in addition to being experts in their field. Their paths are paved with commitment, ingenuity and an unwavering desire to engage audiences. Many have transformed simple scripts into record-breaking hits, creating unforgettable cinematic moments.
One shining example of this is Director Mohit Suri’s recent film “Saiyaara” from the hit film Ek Tha Tiger, directed by Kabir Khan. The song’s emotional depth and beautiful visuals captured millions of hearts, proving how a director’s vision can turn a scene into an everlasting memory. This is the power these directors hold: the ability to merge art and commerce seamlessly.
List Of 10 Richest Film Directors In India
From Karan Johar’s glamorous family dramas to Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s stunning period films and Mohit Suri’s heartfelt romantic thrillers, each director has a distinct style that makes them unique. Their films have entertained and inspired many, establishing them as some of the most celebrated names in Indian cinema today.
Rank | Director | Net Worth (₹ Crore) | Most Famous Films |
---|---|---|---|
1. | Karan Johar | ₹1,500 Crore | Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, My Name Is Khan |
2. | Rajkumar Hirani | ₹1,300 Crore | 3 Idiots, PK, Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. |
3. | Sanjay Leela Bhansali | ₹940 Crore | Padmaavat, Bajirao Mastani, Devdas |
4. | Anurag Kashyap | ₹850 Crore | Black Friday, Dev.D, Gangs of Wasseypur |
5. | Meghna Gulzar | ₹830 Crore | Raazi, Talvar, Chhapaak |
6. | Kabir Khan | ₹400 Crore | Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Ek Tha Tiger, 83 |
7. | Rohit Shetty | ₹336 Crore | Singham, Chennai Express, Golmaal series |
8. | Anurag Basu | ₹330 Crore | Barfi!, Life in a... Metro, Jagga Jasoos |
9. | S. S. Rajamouli | ₹158 Crore | Baahubali: The Beginning, Baahubali 2: The Conclusion, RRR |
10. | Mohit Suri | ₹113 Crore | Aashiqui 2, Ek Villain, Murder 2 |
Source: IMDb, lifestyleasia, nationalfilmawards. in
1. Karan Johar – ₹1,500 Crore
Karan Johar is a well-known film director, producer and TV personality. He made his directorial debut with the superhit Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and went on to create blockbusters like Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, My Name Is Khan, and Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. As the head of Dharma Productions, he has produced many successful films and launched several Bollywood stars, making him one of the wealthiest filmmakers in India.
Richest film directors in India (Image: Instagram)
2. Rajkumar Hirani – ₹1,300 Crore
Rajkumar Hirani is known for blending entertainment with strong social messages. His films like Munna Bhai M.B.B.S., Lage Raho Munna Bhai, 3 Idiots, PK, and Sanju have won both critical and commercial success. With his unique style of heartfelt storytelling, Hirani has built a massive fan base and earned a fortune as one of India’s top directors.
ALSO READ: List Of Top 10 Richest Indian Actors And Their Net Worth: SRK, Salman Khan To Saif Ali Khan
3. Sanjay Leela Bhansali – ₹940 Crore
Sanjay Leela Bhansali is famous for his grand and visually stunning films. His masterpieces include Devdas, Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela, Bajirao Mastani, Padmaavat, and Gangubai Kathiawadi. Known for his attention to detail, opulent sets, and soulful music, Bhansali has carved a unique space in Bollywood and amassed huge wealth.
Richest film directors in India (Image: Instagram)
4. Anurag Kashyap – ₹850 Crore
Anurag Kashyap is known for his bold, realistic, and unconventional filmmaking style. He has directed critically acclaimed films like Black Friday, Gangs of Wasseypur, Ugly, and Manmarziyaan. Apart from directing, he has also worked as a producer and writer, contributing to some of India’s most groundbreaking cinema.
5. Meghna Gulzar – ₹830 Crore
Meghna Gulzar has earned a name for making socially relevant and powerful films. Her best-known works include Talvar, Raazi, and Chhapaak. Known for her sensitive approach to storytelling, Meghna often brings real-life incidents to the big screen, earning both respect and financial success.
Richest film directors in India (Image: Instagram)
6. Kabir Khan – ₹400 Crore
Kabir Khan is a popular director famous for his action-packed and patriotic films. His biggest hits include Ek Tha Tiger, Bajrangi Bhaijaan, and 83. With his ability to connect with audiences emotionally, he has delivered some of the highest-grossing films in India.
7. Rohit Shetty – ₹336 Crore
Rohit Shetty is known for his high-energy action comedies and commercial blockbusters. He has directed the Golmaal series, Chennai Express, Singham, Simmba, and Sooryavanshi. His movies are loved for their entertainment value, larger-than-life action, and family appeal.
Richest film directors in India (Image: Instagram)
8. Anurag Basu – ₹330 Crore
Anurag Basu is a versatile filmmaker known for his unique storytelling style. His famous films include Gangster, Life in a… Metro, Barfi!, and Ludo. His creativity and innovative approach to filmmaking have made him a respected name in the industry.
9. S. S. Rajamouli – ₹158 Crore
S. S. Rajamouli is a legendary South Indian filmmaker who gained global fame with Baahubali: The Beginning, Baahubali: The Conclusion, and RRR. Known for his epic storytelling, grand visuals, and record-breaking box office collections, Rajamouli has become a symbol of Indian cinema’s international success.
Richest film directors in India (Image: Instagram)
10. Mohit Suri – ₹113 Crore
Mohit Suri is known for making romantic thrillers with memorable music. His hits include Aashiqui 2, Ek Villain, Malang, and now his recent film, Saiyaara. His films often feature intense emotions and chart-topping soundtracks, making him a favourite among younger audiences.