Aamir Khan explains why he doesn't charge a salary for films: 'I earn only if...'

Aamir Khan, who is renowned for his astute business acumen, has long supported the viability of the Indian film industry by supporting the profit-sharing model. There have been increasing discussions about the influence of star wages on Bollywood, and he addressed this topic at a recent ABP live event. His ability to make meaningful films like Taare Zameen Par remains intact, he said, even though he is a superstar.

Aamir Khan's passion for Taare Zameen Par

Aamir recalled that some people didn't understand why a film on dyslexia would appeal to people. But he really enjoyed it, and he also shed a lot of tears and he wanted to make this film. The fact that he doesn't tack on his fees to the film's budget is actually working to his advantage. In any case, the superstar's films will earn that much money regardless, and it's just Rs 10–20 crores that he needs to shoot them.

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Aamir feels like he is getting back to the old ways of making money as an artist since he is using the profit-share model. They would stroll around with an averted cap, performing for passers-by and collecting donations. If they are satisfied, they can contribute as they see fit; otherwise, they can simply withdraw their support. Similarly, his earnings are directly proportional to the success or failure of his film.

Two decades of profit-sharing and the success of 3 Idiots

When asked about his 20 years of following this strategy, Aamir revealed that he doesn't take a salary. For instance, the superstar brought up 3 Idiots and how it made a ton of money since so many people saw it and suggested it.

So many people saw, talked about, and rewatched the film, which contributed to its success, he said. So, a portion of those earnings also went to him. The success of the film and its reception are crucial to his financial stability.

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