Abhinav Shukla, who dragged his producers to the court due to non-payment of his dues for the show Silsila Badalte Rishton Ka, is still waiting for his hard earned money and it's been two years.
In the current scenario, where many actors have finally come out to talk about the on-going practice of non-payment by producers in the industry, we spoke to Abhinav again at length and here's what he had to say.
Abhinav said, "The worse feeling in world is begging for something which one has earned. It's a fact that in our industry one has to work very hard to survive and work even harder to get the payment of that hard work. I have fortunately worked with one of the best production houses in Mumbai who’s professionalism and conduct was inspiring. But I also have worked with a few who have shook my belief in ethics and professionalism."
He added, "Unfortunately many actors, who are living hand to mouth, can't afford a delay in payments. They have to pay the bills, rent, emis and have to maintain a standard of living, which is demanding. Hence, once their payment is delayed they go into desperation and many resort to social media shaming, few get rough and unruly and that gives an excuse to the employer not to pay the actor on moral and legal grounds. An actor or person who is already professionally and emotionally hurt is now stuck in a double whammy."
Abhinav also revealed, "Many actors dont want to use the remedies of our legal system as they get discouraged by their peers and by the lengthy process! These actors are left with no option but to accept any negotiated amount which is offered by the employer. The sad part is a lot of actors are afraid of not getting any more work from the same employer and their fears are totally valid . Its just unfortunate , one worked hard, then he worked harder to get his dues and once he got a partial amount, he is blacklisted by that particular employer. It's a tricky situation to be in. Our associations have been and can play a crucial role in solving such issues."
Image Source:- instagram /ashukla09
Image Source:- instagram /ashukla09