TV channels earn huge profits while junior artists, technicians are left behind, says Mahira Khan

KARACHI: Acclaimed Pakistani actress Mahira Khan has spoken out about the financial disparity in the country's television industry, highlighting that channels generate significant revenue while junior artists and technicians remain underpaid and overlooked.

In her remarks, Mahira Khan pointed out the stark contrast between the earnings of television channels and the compensation received by those working behind the scenes and in smaller roles. She emphasised that while the industry as a whole is profitable, the benefits do not trickle down to the lower tiers of the workforce.

Junior artists and technicians struggle despite industry profits

The star actress drew attention to the plight of junior artists and technicians who form the backbone of television productions but are often the last to benefit from the industry's financial success. According to Mahira Khan, television channels earn substantial amounts of money, yet the individuals who contribute significantly to the production process — including junior artists and technical staff — are consistently left behind.

"TV channels earn so much money while junior artists, technicians get left behind."

Mahira Khan's comments shed light on a longstanding concern within Pakistan's entertainment industry, where the gap between top-tier actors and the supporting workforce has been a subject of discussion among industry professionals. The actress's public stance on the matter brings renewed attention to the working conditions and financial struggles faced by many in the television production ecosystem.

A call for greater equity in the industry

The remarks from one of Pakistan's most prominent actresses underscore the need for a more equitable distribution of revenue within the television industry. Junior artists and technicians, who often work long hours on set, have historically had limited bargaining power when it comes to their wages and working conditions.

Mahira Khan, who has herself risen through the ranks of the Pakistani entertainment industry to become one of its most recognisable faces, used her platform to advocate for those who do not have the same visibility or voice. Her comments are seen as an important acknowledgment from a leading figure in the industry regarding the challenges faced by its less prominent members.

The issue of fair compensation for all workers in the entertainment sector has been raised periodically by various actors and industry stakeholders, but systemic changes have been slow to materialise. Mahira Khan's latest remarks add significant weight to the ongoing conversation about reforming pay structures and ensuring that the financial success of television channels translates into better livelihoods for all those involved in production.