Mohammad Ahmed is a senior Pakistani artist who made headlines a few months ago after posting a video on social media highlighting the delayed payment culture in the Pakistani drama industry. The trend was soon joined by several other actors, who also raised their voices against delayed or non-payment issues. Director Mehreen Jabbar also spoke up, especially about the payment problems faced by crew members, who are considered the backbone of the industry.
Recently, Mohammad Ahmed, Mehreen Jabbar, Saheefa Jabbar, and Hajra Yamin opened up about the struggles they face in receiving their payments.
Talking about it, Mohammad Ahmed said, “A delay of 6 to 8 months is considered normal when it comes to payments. We literally have to beg for our money. It’s painful when they don’t even respond. You have to submit applications, explain your financial situation, and only then do they release a partial payment. When you ask for the full amount, they say, ‘We just gave you a cheque.’”
Hajra Yamin also added, “Contractually, nothing is in the actor’s favor. For example, there’s always a clause that says if a shoot is canceled because of the artist, he has to pay damages. But if it’s canceled by the production, it’s considered justified.”
Saheefa Jabbar Khattak said, “There was also a controversy when Saheefa Jabbar Khattak introduced a new clause in the contract that included health and harassment. Obviously, if I get injured, it should be the production’s responsibility to bear the expenses. Also, I take a therapy of 6 months after wrapping up a drama because of the mental stress I go through”.
Hajra Yamin also shared that she once got injured on set and was simply sent home. Mohammad Ahmed also revealed his struggles of managing diabetes on set and covering his own wardrobe expenses. They further highlighted the mistreatment of crew members. Mehreen Jabbar said that many people avoid speaking up because they fear losing work. Actors admitted that they stay silent for the sake of getting projects. Mohammad Ahmed also revealed that he has now started raising his voice on sets. Here is the link to the video:
