Delays in payments have been a long-standing issue in Pakistan’s entertainment industry, affecting actors and the crew likewise. To bring this persistent issue out in the open, the actors Ramsha Khan and Khushhal Khan, in an interview with Haroon Rashid on BBC Asian Network, spoke candidly about it. This was part of the promotional campaign for their high-budget drama Duniyapur.
Addressing a Widespread Issue
When asked about the challenges of working on large-scale productions, both actors emphasised the importance of timely payments. Khushhal described payment delays as disrespectful, stating, “It’s disrespectful not to pay on time because we’re there on time.” He added that the practice forces actors to compromise their self-respect.
Read more: Pakistan’s Most Expensive Drama of 2024 Will Leave You Awestruck
Ramsha echoed these concerns, saying that delayed payments affect financial stability. “I have to pay my bills,” she said, sharing her approach of refusing to work on set unless her dues are cleared.
Lack of Industry Solidarity
A discussion also arose on the issue of uncoordinated actors on a single issue. “If Khushhal and I take a stand, three other actors will let it go. There’s no unity,” Ramsha argued. Khushhal highlighted that there would be collective action if the industry began to practice professionalism. “We give 110% every single day. The least we expect is to be paid on time,” he added.
Watch here:
View this post on Instagram
A Call for Change
Both actors called on the show business industry to treat prompt payments as a minimum standard of professional practice rather than an afterthought. They sounded hopeful that positive change might come through teamwork.
By speaking out, Ramsha and Khushhal brought to light an issue that remains a constant thorn in professionalism and consideration in show business. Their voices are part of the larger call for fairness and accountability in the industry.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.