Gone are the days when mothers in Tollywood movies were relegated to tearful scenes and supporting roles. Today, veteran actresses portraying strong and nuanced characters as mothers are stealing the show and commanding top billing. This list celebrates the ten highest-paid actresses in Tollywood who bring depth and experience to the role of the quintessential screen mom in 2024.

The Powerhouse Performers (Rank 1-5):

1. Ramya Krishnan: Renowned for her portrayal of fierce characters, Ramya Krishnan continues to reign supreme. Her impactful performances as mothers in big-budget films like the recent fantasy drama "Astra" have earned her a reputation for being irreplaceable and a price tag to match.

2. Jayasudha: A household name for decades, Jayasudha has seamlessly transitioned from leading lady to iconic screen mom. Her versatility shines through in diverse roles, from the quintessential caring mother to the strong matriarch. Her experience and talent command a high fee from filmmakers.

3. Suhasini Maniratnam: A true veteran of South Indian cinema, Suhasini Maniratnam brings gravitas and emotional depth to every character she portrays. Known for her powerful portrayal of mothers in critically acclaimed films, she is a force to be reckoned with, both on screen and in terms of remuneration.

4. Saritha: With a career spanning over four decades, Saritha has played a wide array of motherly roles. Her ability to emote a spectrum of emotions, from vulnerability to strength, makes her a popular choice for filmmakers, reflected in her high pay grade.

5. Sharada: A recipient of numerous accolades, Sharada's elegance and grace translate beautifully to her portrayal of mothers on screen. She continues to be a sought-after actress, commanding a significant fee for her impactful performances.

The Scene Stealers (Rank 6-10):

6. Kushboo: A multi-faceted actress and a successful politician, Kushboo's return to Tollywood has been embraced by audiences and filmmakers alike. Her strong screen presence and ability to connect with viewers make her a valuable asset, reflected in her rising pay scale.

7. Nadiya: An actress known for her natural charm and relatable performances, Nadiya has carved a niche for herself playing relatable and supportive mothers in contemporary Tollywood cinema. Her popularity translates to a strong demand and good remuneration from filmmakers.

8. Rohini: A National Award winner, Rohini's talent for portraying relatable and humorous motherly figures is unmatched. She is a popular choice for light-hearted and family-oriented films, and her experience is valued by producers who offer her a competitive fee.

9. Uppena: A veteran actress with a distinct screen presence, Uppena is known for playing strong-willed mothers in character-driven films. Her powerful portrayals are appreciated by audiences and filmmakers alike, reflected in her rising pay as an actress.

10. Pragathi: With a career spanning over three decades, Pragathi has played a diverse range of motherly roles. Her ability to adapt to different characters ensures her continued presence in Tollywood, with filmmakers offering her a respectable fee for her contribution.

This list is a mere glimpse into the talented pool of actresses who breathe life into the characters of mothers in Tollywood. Their experience, versatility, and powerful performances are a testament to their enduring contribution to the industry.