Vivek Oberoi gives up Rs 6 crore fee for ‘Ramayana’, asks producer to fund cancer treatment for 50 children

While Ranbir Kapoor is reportedly the highest-paid actor in Nitesh Tiwari's ‘Ramayana’ with a remuneration of Rs 150 crore for both instalments, Vivek Oberoi has reportedly chosen a different approach, asking the makers to redirect his Rs 6 crore fee towards the treatment of children battling cancer.
The buzz around Nitesh Tiwari's ambitious ‘Ramayana’ has extended beyond its casting, visual effects and box office prospects. The reported remuneration of its star cast has also become a talking point. However, one actor's decision to forgo his paycheck has stood out.
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Vivek Oberoi, who plays Vibhishana in the two-part epic, has reportedly declined his Rs 6 crore remuneration and requested producer Namit Malhotra to use the amount to fund the medical treatment of 50 children battling cancer.
According to a report by Deccan Chronicle, the gesture coincided with the actor's 50th birthday. Instead of accepting the fee for his contribution to the multi-part project, Vivek reportedly took responsibility for the treatment expenses of the children.
The actor also shared his thoughts on philanthropy, explaining why he prefers not to publicise his charitable work.
"I firmly believe talking about one's charity diminishes the deed and reduces its impact. If we are financially privileged, it is for a reason — and that reason is to help those less privileged than us," he said, as quoted by Deccan Chronicle.
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Vivek reportedly described his association with the film as 'seva' rather than a job, adding that he did not want to take even a single rupee for his contribution.
‘Ramayana’: How much are Ranbir Kapoor, Yash and Sai Pallavi earning?
Vivek's reported gesture comes amid speculation about the massive paychecks commanded by the film's leading actors. According to a report by India.com, Ranbir Kapoor, who portrays Lord Rama, is the highest-paid actor in the project.
The actor has reportedly charged Rs 75 crore for each instalment of ‘Ramayana’. With the epic planned as a two-part film, his total remuneration is said to be Rs 150 crore.
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Yash, who plays Ravana, reportedly has a different financial arrangement. Apart from starring in the film, the actor is also one of its co-producers and is expected to have a share in the profits.
Sai Pallavi, who essays the role of Goddess Sita, is reportedly charging Rs 6 crore for each instalment. This would take her total remuneration for the two films to Rs 12 crore.
Ravie Dubey, who plays Lakshmana, is also said to be receiving a substantial paycheck. According to the same report, the actor has reportedly charged Rs 10 crore per instalment, taking his total fee to Rs 20 crore.
It is worth noting that the remuneration figures are based on media reports and have not been officially confirmed by the actors or the film's production team.