Up until this week, Dutt was tied at the top with Deepika Padukone, both having three such films to their credit. But with Dhurandhar 2 virtually guaranteed to cross the milestone, "Sanju Baba" is taking the crown.
Here is the breakdown of the record-breaking race between these two superstars and why Sanjay Dutt has become the industry's most successful "X-factor."
The Global Elite: Sanjay vs. Deepika 🏆
Both actors have been part of the most significant pan-India and global cinematic events of the last few years. Here is how their "₹1,000 Crore" scorecards currently look:
Actor ₹1,000 Crore+ Films Roles Sanjay Dutt 4 Films (D2 projected) Adheera (KGF 2), Aslam Khan (Dhurandhar 1 & 2), Special Cameo (Jawan) Deepika Padukone 3 Films Rubina Mohsin (Pathaan), Aishwarya (Jawan), Sumati (Kalki 2898 AD)
The Dutt Streak: Sanjay’s run began with the Kannada epic KGF: Chapter 2 (2022), followed by a high-impact appearance in Jawan (2023), and then his pivotal role as the Pakistani SP Aslam Khan in both Dhurandhar (2025) and its 2026 sequel.
The Padukone Power: Deepika remains the leading lady with the highest box office average in history. While she is currently at three, she has a massive chance to reclaim her shared throne with her upcoming high-budget projects like King (alongside SRK) and the Allu Arjun–Atlee collaboration later this year.
The "Midas Touch" Factor 💰
What makes Sanjay Dutt's record truly unique is the versatility of his involvement.
Unlike traditional lead stars who carry the film on their shoulders, Dutt has mastered the art of being the essential supporting pillar.
Whether he is playing a terrifying antagonist (KGF 2), a seasoned lawman (Dhurandhar), or a crowd-pleasing cameo (Jawan), his presence has consistently correlated with films that breach the ₹1,000 crore mark.
This "Dutt Effect" is exactly why he is currently one of the highest-paid character actors, reportedly charging ₹10 crore for his appearance in the Dhurandhar sequel.
Ranveer Singh: The New Challenger 🚀
Sanjay Dutt isn't the only one breaking records on this set.
With Dhurandhar 2, Ranveer Singh is also making history. He is set to become the fastest actor to deliver two ₹1,000 crore films, achieving the feat within just three months of his first one.
For comparison, Shah Rukh Khan previously held the record for the fastest back-to-back century-breakers (Pathaan and Jawan), which he achieved in a nine-month span.
SantaBanta Verdict:
Sanjay Dutt's career is a masterclass in staying relevant! While many of his 80s contemporaries are struggling for screen time, Sanju Baba has transitioned into a "Global Blockbuster Magnet." He has proven that in the modern era of pan-India spectacles, a powerful performance—no matter the length—can turn a film into a historic event.
