Kishori Shahane on the delayed payments in the TV industry & its impact on actors
Mumbai, June 7
Veteran actress Kishori Shahane has shared her views on the long-standing issue of delayed payments in the television industry.
The 'Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin' actress stated that at times the payment cycles get extended, creating financial difficulties for the artist.
However, she added that there are many production houses that have proper schedules for payments, making things easier.
Talking exclusively to IANS, Shahane was asked, "Another major issue often discussed is delayed payments in television. What is your perspective on that?"
Shedding light on how delayed payments end up creating difficulties for those working in the television industry, the veteran actress shared, "It is a challenging situation and can feel like a vicious cycle. Payment cycles that are supposed to be shorter sometimes get extended significantly. Naturally, that creates difficulties. However, there are also production houses that maintain prompt payment schedules. Once the payment process starts rolling smoothly, things become easier."
Shahane also revealed that during her long tenure as an actor, she has been subjected to various payment methods, including daily, monthly, and even longer cycles.
Stressing the importance of budgeting and financial planning, she added, "Over the years, I have worked under different payment structures, including daily, monthly, and longer cycles. It requires careful financial planning. I believe professionals in many industries face similar challenges today, so budgeting and planning become essential."
During the conversation, she also opened up about the long working hours in the television industry.
Shahane added that in order to deliver daily content, the actors are often required to work extra hours.
"Television has always demanded hard work. Earlier, shows were telecast once a week, then five days a week, and now many are broadcast daily. Naturally, the workload increases. If you want to be part of this industry, you have to accept that commitment," said the 'Ishq Mein Marjawan' actress.
— IANS
Reader Comments
This is a systemic issue, not just in TV but across many creative industries in India. The power imbalance between production houses and actors needs to be addressed. Maybe unions should step in more actively. Kishori Shahane has spoken wisely - budgeting is key, but the primary responsibility lies with the producers.
Interesting to hear this perspective from a veteran. In Hollywood, payment issues are more contractual and litigated quickly. Here it seems like a cultural acceptance of delays. The working hours she mentions - daily shows - that's brutal. 12-14 hour days are common in Indian TV sets, I've heard.
Respect to Kishori ji for speaking up! But let's be honest - many actors also accept these conditions because they have no other option. The industry needs more transparency in contracts and payment schedules. Daily soaps literally run on the blood and sweat of these artists. 👏
I've worked in TV production and can confirm this. The payment cycles are unpredictable, and it puts immense pressure on actors, especially newcomers who don't have savings. Kishori Shahane's point about budgeting is valid, but when you're living month-to-month, delayed payments can destroy your finances. 😔
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