India, April 21 -- It is true that stars appear on the posters of the film and lead much of the promotional campaign, too. For most big Indian films, the lead actors are what draw the crowds. Hence, they are paid handsomely too. But there are a few film directors who rival even the biggest stars in terms of influence and popularity. One of these even rivals superstars in terms of remuneration, leaving even the biggest names in dust with his extremely high paycheck. (Also read: India's highest-paid actress earns Rs.30 crore per film, has no release in 6 years, yet beat Deepika, Alia Bhatt, Kareena)

Telugu filmmaker SS Rajamouli is India's highest-paid film director right now. According to IMDd, the director charges around Rs.200 crore for...