From Toothbrush Seller to Billionaire: Meet Bollywood’s Richest Man
Ronnie Screwvala, known for producing hits like "Paan Singh Tomar," surpasses Shah Rukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan in wealth, boasting assets worth approximately $1.55 billion.
In discussions of Bollywood’s wealthiest individuals, names like Shah Rukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan often come to mind. However, you may be surprised to learn that the richest person in Bollywood isn’t an actor but producer Ronnie Screwvala, renowned for successful films such as “Paan Singh Tomar,” “Thank You,” and “Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota.”
According to a recent report by Forbes, Ronnie Screwvala has been named the wealthiest individual in Bollywood, with a total net worth of $1.55 billion, equivalent to approximately ₹13,000 crore. Indian media sources claim that he is the only billionaire associated with Indian cinema with assets valued at this amount.
Who Ranks Below Him?
Following Screwvala in the rankings is Bhushan Kumar, whose net worth is estimated at $1.2 billion. Aditya Chopra and Shah Rukh Khan follow closely, each with assets exceeding $850 million.
A Humble Beginning
Interestingly, Ronnie Screwvala’s journey to wealth began far from the glitz of Bollywood; he once sold toothbrushes. Reports indicate that he wasn’t always this affluent. He started his career with a toothbrush manufacturing business but, recognizing the growing popularity of cinema in India post-1970, invested ₹37,000 in a television production company. This venture led to the successful production of numerous films under his production house.
In 2012, Screwvala sold his company to Disney for $1 billion, marking it as one of the biggest deals in cinema history. He later founded RSVP Movies, producing popular Bollywood films like “Uri” and “Kedarnath.”
Ronnie Screwvala’s inspiring journey from a humble beginning to becoming Bollywood’s richest man exemplifies the power of vision and perseverance in the entertainment industry.
