Much like Hollywood’s elite, many Bollywood A-listers often use their celebrity to draw attention to causes near and dear to their hearts. Who isn’t familiar with the image of the dewy-eyed starlet hugging orphans, urging viewers to help those less fortunate than themselves?

These efforts are commendable and should be recognized, but it has to be acknowledged that many celebrities, actors, musicians, athletes and filmmakers among them, draw enormous salaries. They have the capacity to blow more in a single shopping spree than most people make in a month. It stands to reason, therefore, that many of them feel obliged to help in some tangible way.

So, just who in Bollywood walks the walk when it comes to sharing personal wealth?

According to the Hindustan Times, Anil Kapoor, best recognized as the jaunty host of Slumdog Millionaire fame, donated his entire fee from the 2008 movie, nearly $750,000, to help disadvantaged children.

The money was given to Plan India, a registered NGO that works in the education of children. Bhagyashri Dengle, the organization’s executive director, confirmed the donation and added Kapoor has been an avid supporter for the past six years.

Another big-hearted donor is Akshay Kumar. The actor/producer wants to promote martial arts in India and is reportedly donating about $558,000 to a judo-karate academy.

It’s common for Indians to give generously on auspicious occasions. During Durga Puja last month, the annual festival dedicated to the Hindu goddess, Vidya Balan reportedly donated $18,575 to the Eastern India Cinetel Welfare Trust, which supports Bengali technicians.

Sanjay Dutt gave $4,600 to pay for the medical treatment of a cancer patient, and Farhan Akhtar donated $28,000 to help improve conditions in rural villages.

When asked what motivates his generosity, Kapoor told the Hindustan Times: “I think I have never done enough. I would love to do still more.”

While exuberant celebrity salaries will doubtlessly continue to draw scrutiny, it’s good to know there are some big hearts out there to match their big wallets.

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