Tamil director-turned-actor S J Suryah has set a new benchmark in the Telugu film industry by becoming the highest-paid villain in Tollywood. His commanding performance and undeniable talent have paved the way for a remarkable career shift, catapulting him to the pinnacle of success.
S J Suryah’s remarkable journey to becoming Tollywood’s highest-paid antagonist took a significant turn with his upcoming Telugu film alongside the illustrious star Nani. Directed by the talented Vivek Athreya and produced by the esteemed DVV Danayya.
Reportedly, the seasoned actor insisted on a substantial remuneration for his portrayal of the antagonist in the film. Notably, Suryah’s stance during negotiations was uncompromising, as he acknowledged the deep pockets of the film’s producer, leading to the striking quote of Rs 10 crore.
According to an insider, “Suryah told the managers not to bargain since the film is being made by a cash-rich producer, so he could quote a hefty sum and get it too.” The producer, although somewhat surprised, recognized Suryah’s exceptional talent and agreed to his terms, confident that the actor would breathe life into the character and captivate the audience.
In achieving this remarkable milestone, S J Suryah has outshone the prominent Bollywood star Sanjay Dutt, who is commanding Rs 6 crore for his villainous role in Puri Jagannath’s ‘Double iSmart.’ This substantial pay scale has allowed Suryah to supersede other renowned Bollywood actors entering the Tollywood arena, including Saif Ali Khan in ‘Devara,’ Bobby Deol in ‘Hari Hara Veera Mallu,’ and Nawazuddin Siddiqui in ‘Saindhav.’
S J Suryah’s ascent to the position of Tollywood’s highest-paid villain did not happen overnight. His journey has been marked by riveting performances in films like ‘Maanaadu’ and ‘Mark Antony,’ which have garnered widespread acclaim and elevated his industry standing. His exceptional acting prowess has led to a surge in offers from various film industries, but he remains discerning in his choices, opting for roles that truly resonate with him.
