“I tell the producers, 'Pay me first, then I’ll work'."
Ramsha Khan and Khushhal Khan opened up delayed payments in the showbiz industry.
The actors shed light on how it has become an alarming norm.
Both stars, who are currently starring in the popular drama Duniyapur, voiced their concerns over the lack of timely compensation for actors.
They stated that this problem is hindering not just their financial stability but also their creative productivity.
Khushhal Khan expressed that delayed payments are a form of disrespect towards the actors.
He emphasised that when performers give their all to a project, they deserve to be compensated promptly.
Khushhal said: “When you put in 110 per cent, the least you expect is to be paid on time.”
He added that the delay in payments has started to affect how actors view their work.
Khushhal pointed out that actors, once passionate about their craft, are now viewing their roles in the industry as mere entertainment.
Ramsha echoed these sentiments, stressing that for her, the issue goes beyond just financial inconvenience, it’s a matter of survival.
She explained: “When you’re not paid on time, it’s not just about the money; it affects your ability to manage your personal expenses, pay your bills, and keep your life on track.”
Ramsha also shared that she has had to take a firm stance in order to protect herself from these delays, refusing to attend filming unless payments are made.
She said: “I tell the producers, ‘Pay me first, then I’ll work’.”
One of the major points both actors raised was the lack of unity among artists when it comes to addressing this issue.
Ramsha Khan noted that while she and Khushhal are speaking out, many others in the industry choose to stay silent.
She expressed frustration over the lack of collective action.
The actress said while they raise their voices about delayed payments, others are reluctant to join the conversation, which weakens the cause.
Khushhal expressed hope that the issue would eventually be addressed in the industry.
He mentioned that he knew people who were actively working to resolve such problems.
Khushhal also suggested that producers and directors take a more professional approach, noting that paying actors on time would ensure smoother operations.
While both actors were clear in their criticism of the industry’s payment practices, they refrained from naming specific producers or projects.
They also did not specify how long they had been experiencing these issues.