45 is considered one of the most expensive films ever produced in Kannada cinema, with a reported budget of around ₹100 crore. The film marks the directorial debut of music composer Arjun Janya and brings together some of Sandalwood’s biggest names, including Shiva Rajkumar, Upendra, and Raj B. Shetty. A significant portion of the film’s massive budget is attributed to the high remuneration of its star-studded cast, making 45 a true big-scale, pan-India project.
Estimated Salaries of the Main Cast
The cast fees of 45 have generated considerable buzz across trade circles and social media. While the makers have not officially disclosed remuneration details, industry reports and trade estimates provide a reasonable picture of what the lead actors were paid. The figures below are approximate and based on industry sources, not official confirmations.
| Actor | Role | Estimated Salary (₹ crore) |
|---|---|---|
| Upendra | Rayappa (Main Antagonist) | 20–25 |
| Shiva Rajkumar | Shivanna (Spiritual Guide Role) | 15–20 |
| Raj B. Shetty | Vinay (Lead Protagonist) | 10–15 |
| Jagapathi Babu | Supporting Role | 5–8 |
| Other Supporting Cast (Rangayana Raghu, Chetan Kumar, others) | Supporting Roles | 1–3 each |
Impact of Cast Fees on the Overall Budget
The combined remuneration of the leading actors alone is estimated to be ₹50–60 crore, accounting for nearly half of the film’s total budget. Raj B. Shetty has publicly stated in interviews that he consciously limits his fees to help maintain budget balance. However, the presence of top-tier stars like Shiva Rajkumar and Upendra naturally elevated the film’s scale and market value.
Beyond cast salaries, major expenses included advanced VFX work in collaboration with Canada-based MARZ Studios, extensive location shoots, elaborate set designs, and aggressive marketing campaigns, all of which significantly increased production costs.
Box Office Expectations and Industry Context
45 was released on 25 December 2025 and opened with encouraging numbers through paid premieres. However, given its high budget, the film requires strong and sustained box-office collections to break even and move into profitability.
The film also reflects a growing trend in the Kannada film industry, where senior superstars like Shiva Rajkumar now command fees in the ₹15–20 crore range, highlighting Sandalwood’s expanding commercial ambitions and pan-Indian aspirations.
Final Take
With its massive budget, premium star salaries, and high-concept storytelling, 45 stands as a bold financial and creative gamble. Whether the film ultimately justifies its cost depends not just on box-office performance, but also on its long-term value through OTT rights, satellite deals, and international distribution.