The Top 5 Highest-Grossing Actors of 2025: The Year of Box Office Behemoths
Akshay Kumar, who is primarily known for his high amount of output, took the fourth position with a total of ₹755.3 crore as a result of four releases this year
The year 2025 proved to be a landmark one for Indian cinema, with massive theatrical turnouts, content-driven blockbusters, and a rare mix of seasoned performers-powerhouse storytellers ruling the box office. From historical epics to rooted regional narratives, compelling cinemas across languages seemed to reap a rewarding glance from audiences. Reigning supreme were five actors whose films collectively did staggering numbers, with records simply tumbling and thus relegating them as the highest-grossing stars of the year.
Akshaye Khanna emerged as the undisputed box office leader of 2025. The actor delivered back-to-back blockbusters with Chaava and Dhurandhar, driving his total earnings near the ₹1,000 crore mark. His subtle performances combined with a mature onscreen presence and strong script choices struck a chord with audiences across. Akshaye’s success once again proved that content-backed roles can overpower star-driven conventional formulas.
Close on the heels was Rishab Shetty, whose Kantara continued its phenomenal run to earn ₹852.16 crore. What made Rishab's success remarkable was the film's rooted storytelling and spiritual undertones, striking a chord far beyond regional boundaries. His rise underlined the growing pan-India appeal of regional cinema and the power of authentic narratives.
At third was Vicky Kaushal with the collection of Chhava being ₹807.91 crore. Vicky's transformation and dedication to the historical drama were widely appreciated, further sealing his reputation as one of the most dependable actors of his generation. The success of the film proved that he could very well shoulder big-ticket and performance-driven cinema.
Akshay Kumar, who is primarily known for his high amount of output, took the fourth position with a total of ₹755.3 crore as a result of four releases this year. The fluctuating box office successes of the actor in the recent past did not deter his entry into the top ten list this year, where he features along with films from different genres.
Rounding off the list was legendary Malayalam superstar Mohanlal, whose three releases together amassed ₹578.45 crore. With his enduring fan base and timeless screen charisma, Mohanlal once again proved that experience and strong storytelling remain unbeatable.
Together, these five actors defined 2025 as a year where substance, scale, and sincerity ruled the box office ?
This article is authored by Sakshi, an intern from Deccan Chronicle.
