Top stars agree for pay cut

After hectic discussions, Tollywood stars have signed a "breakthrough" agreement to strengthen the bond between producers and artistes that will ultimately give some much-needed savings for filmmakers.

According to industry sources, stars like Venkatesh, Balakrishna, Mahesh Babu, NTR Jr, Ram Charan Tej, Allu Arjun and Ravi Teja have agreed to comply with the 60-odd measures proposed by the cost committee. These measures are expected to save Rs 40 to 60 lakh for a small film and Rs 2 to Rs 3 crore for a big-budget film.

"Undoubtedly it`s a progressive move since the `cut list` was drafted carefully. I am glad that it is seeing the light of day after being in cold storage for nearly six months," said a cost committee member. Besides actors like Prakash Raj, Brahmanandam, and Venu Madhav have also signed on the dotted line.

Among other conditions, the agreement states that while shooting, actors have to restrict their personal staff, arrange for their own conveyance, adhere to call sheet timings and receive pay packets in instalments besides travelling with the rest of the crew on overseas shootings.