From Rs 1,500 Per Match to Rs 250 Crore Empire: Kapil Dev's Journey from the Hero of 1983 World Cup to Cricket Millionaire
Cricketing legend Kapil Dev, who captained India to victory in the country's first-ever Cricket World Cup in 1983, has made a long journey since he wore the Indian jersey. Former Indian skipper Kapil, who reportedly earned just Rs 1,500 for each outing back in the day, currently has a net worth of over Rs 250 crore and is among the richest cricketing entities in the country even decades after retirement.
Kapil Dev and his teammates in the victorious Indian campaign in 1983 World Cup pocketed just Rs 1,500 per match. In contrast, nowadays Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma make up to Rs 15 lakh for a Test match. However, for all his on-field success coupled with off-field performances, it is due to this Kapil has built a multi-million-dollar empire.
A Fortune Built on Endorsements
Kapil Dev's net worth is said to be about $30 million (Rs 252 crore) at present, according to media reports. Brand promotions account for most of his wealth as he continues to endorse some of the big brands in the likes of AIPL ABRO, Palmolive, and Boost. Brand endorsements alone fetch him annual incomes of Rs 20-30 lakh per brand. Earnings: Besides his number of jobs as a cricket commentator, TV show host, and other public appearances, Kapil earns approximately Rs 12 crore per annum, thus bringing his monthly income to more or less Rs 1 crore.
A reflection of his enormity of success, the lifestyle on the part of Kapil Dev reflects is impressive. He stays with wife Romi Dev in a sumptuous bungalow located in the prosperous Delhi locality of Sundar Nagar. Interestingly, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited was occupying the first floor of Kapil's bungalow as a tenant and it was only after the victory in the 1983 World Cup that Kapil had convinced them to vacate the place allowing him along with his wife enjoy full house.
Being an ardent cricket icon, the cricket ace also shares an immense passion for luxury cars. The impressive collection of his collection is valued at more than Rs 10 crores and includes high-end models such as the Mercedes C220D, Toyota Fortuner, and other such elite vehicles.
From Cricket to Commentary
Kapil Dev stays involved in the world of cricket. Often, he is seen commenting on cricket and presenting a show on some TV channel. Informational commentaries and a strong on-screen presence have kept him in the news for years to come, with his money from these appearances rivalling some of the highest paid cricketing stars in the game.
Legacy of a Champion
In some ways, Kapil Dev's journey from Rs 1,500 per match in international cricket to a multi-crore businessman is nothing short of inspiring. From leading India to its first World Cup victory in 1983 to being a lasting legacy through endorsements and media work, Kapil remains one of the towering figures that Indian cricket has produced.