Kartik Aaryan opens up on not charging any fees as an actor for Shehzada: 'Film was going through a crisis'

Kartik Aaryan's most recent movie, Shehzada, marks his debut as a producer. In a recent interview, the actor addressed the factors that led to him returning his money and taking a co-producing role in the movie that premiered in theatres on Friday. 

When asked if he was working as a producer on Shehzada on a profit-share basis or had reduced his pay, Kartik said to ETimes, 

"For this one. Initially, I was not on board as a producer for Shehzada. At first, I had taken my fees and remuneration. And then there was a crisis. The film was going through a crisis and needed somebody to step up. So I asked my producer then I gave up my money. That is how this whole thing, production and me becoming a co-producer, came (into being)."

The actor continued when asked explicitly if he had returned his payment. He expressed, saying, "Almost." That helped the movie by taking some of the pressure off. The two films were linked together since he signed the movie even though he still needed to sign Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2. Luckily, Shehzada's budget was modest, but since it was an action movie, it required some money. 

And at one time, due to their problems, he had to quit the remuneration. And right now, they are in a terrific place and circumstance. He continued by saying that although Shehzada may appear expensive because actor fees and some other similar expenses were not paid, the movie only had a modest budget.

Shehzada, also starring Kriti Sanon in the lead role, is released in theatres today and has garnered mixed audience reactions.