IITian, who left MNC job, is now highest paid 'Panchayat' star: Check his net worth, luxury car collection

He got into IIT, but the world of lights, camera, and action beckoned him like a siren. Even though he cracked the JEE and got into the highly coveted IIT Kharagpur, Jitendra Kumar, aka ‘ Jeetu Bhaiyya,’ found himself drawn to donning the greasepaint rather than civil engineering. According to a report by Financial Express, the 'Panchayat' star became an active member of the Hindi Technology Dramatic Society, where he met Biswapati Sarkar—a meeting that would turn out to be pivotal for his future career. Sarkar, associated with The Viral Fever (TVF), later opened the doors to the digital content space for Jitendra.

A Detour Through the Corporate World

After completing his engineering degree, Jitendra initially followed the traditional IIT route and accepted a lucrative job at a multinational corporation. While the corporate life offered stability and financial comfort, it couldn’t fill the creative void within him. It wasn’t long before he recognized that his heart belonged to the stage and the screen. Despite the risks, he boldly decided to resign from his corporate position and immerse himself fully in the pursuit of acting.

The Breakthrough with TVF and Rise to Stardom

Jitendra first gained wide acclaim through Pitchers, a digital series produced by TVF, which brought him into the limelight and established him as a promising actor in the digital entertainment industry. His role in Kota Factory as the beloved Jeetu Bhaiya further cemented his reputation, especially among young audiences preparing for competitive exams. However, it was Panchayat, the rural satire series on Amazon Prime Video, that catapulted him to national fame. Portraying Abhishek Tripathi, an engineering graduate reluctantly working as a panchayat secretary in the fictional village of Phulera, Jitendra captured the hearts of millions with his subtle yet powerful performance.

Panchayat Season 3: A Game-Changer

The third season of Panchayat marked another milestone in Jitendra’s career. According to Business Standard, he was paid Rs 5.6 lakh for the entire season, earning Rs 70,000 per episode—making him the highest-paid cast member on the show. The series, known for its portrayal of rural India with a humorous yet realistic lens, resonated deeply with viewers, and Jitendra’s understated performance played a major role in its success.

Wealth, Wheels, and a Well-Earned Life

Jitendra’s decision to follow his dreams has also led to significant financial success. As reported by Zee News and ABP Live, his estimated net worth stands at Rs 7 crore. Beyond acting, his lifestyle reflects his achievements. According to Financial Express, his enviable car collection includes a Mercedes-Benz GLS 350D worth Rs 88.18 lakh, a Mercedes-Benz E-Class priced at Rs 82.10 lakh, a Toyota Fortuner costing Rs 48.43 lakh, and a Mini Countryman worth Rs 42 lakh.

A Risk That Reaped Rewards

From turning down a secure corporate future to chasing uncertain dreams in the entertainment industry, Jitendra Kumar’s story is a testament to the power of conviction. Today, he stands tall as a celebrated actor with critical acclaim, financial success, and a devoted fan base. His performance in Panchayat not only defines his career but also symbolizes how passion and perseverance can script a fulfilling life story.