Pallavi Joshi on gender pay gap in 90s, says she earned half of Shekhar Suman's fee despite being highest paid actress
Mumbai, June 22
Popular actress and producer Pallavi Joshi recalled facing pay disparity at the peak of her television career, in the 90s era of television.
She revealed that despite being the highest-paid actress of that era, she still earned only half of what her male counterpart, Shekhar Suman, was paid.
Recalling those days, Pallavi, in an exclusive conversation with IANS, said, "I will tell you there was a time when there was a magazine cover page that had Shekhar Suman's and my photograph. I think because Shekhar Suman and I were the highest-paid actors of television back in those days."
She further pointed out the glaring disparity in remuneration between male and female actors back in that era.
"Shekhar Suman used to get twice the amount that I got. In spite of me being the highest-paid television actress, I was still paid half the price of what he was paid. That says it all," she added.
Talking about Pallavi Joshi, the actress was among the most prominent faces on Indian television and ruled the roost during the late 1980s and 1990s.
She won much acclaim for her performances in the 90s shows such as 'Mriganayani, 'Talaash', 'Aarohan' and many more.
Known for taking on meaningful and strong content-driven roles, Joshi went on to establish herself as one of the most respected actresses on the small screen.
Talking about Shekhar Suman, the actor back in the 90s era, enjoyed immense popularity through television shows such as 'Dekh Bhai Dekh', 'Wah Janaab', and 'Movers & Shakers'.
Pallavi's remarks have yet again shed light on the long-standing issue of gender-based pay disparity in the entertainment industry.
Presently, on the professional front, Pallavi has been receiving great reviews for her character portrayal in her recently released series, 'Margao Files'.
— IANS
Reader Comments
I respect Pallavi Joshi but let's be real - Shekhar Suman was a bigger star then with 'Dekh Bhai Dekh' and 'Movers & Shakers' which had massive TRP. Pay is based on market value, not just gender. Just playing devil's advocate here.
Even if Shekhar was more popular, paying half to the highest paid actress is shocking! Bachpan mein mujhe lagta tha sab equal hain, but aise revelations show reality. Hope today's generation of actresses like Alia, Deepika negotiate better. 💪
I remember watching 'Mriganayani' and 'Talaash' - she was phenomenal! This pay gap is systemic. Even in cricket, women earn less. But at least now people are talking. Sad that it took 30 years for this to come out.
Shekhar Suman was the face of TV back then, no doubt. But still, half the pay is excessive. Maybe if actresses had more bargaining power then, things would be different. Good on Pallavi for raising this issue now. 💯
I'm from the US and even here in Hollywood, the gender pay gap was huge in the 90s. It's interesting to hear the same story from Indian TV. Progress is slow but at least it's being acknowledged now. Respect to Pallavi Joshi for her honesty. 🌟
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