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Mushtaq Khan Reveals Underpayment in ‘Welcome’
Veteran Bollywood actor Mushtaq Khan has recently brought attention to the issue of pay disparities in the film industry by sharing his experience during the making of the 2007 blockbuster comedy Welcome. Despite the film’s success and his memorable role as Ballu, Khan disclosed that he was significantly underpaid, earning less than the support staff of lead actor Akshay Kumar.
Fixed Pay Despite Extended Shoot
In a candid interview, Khan explained that he was contracted for a fixed payment of Rs 1 lakh for the film, based on an initial 20-25 day shooting schedule. However, the shoot extended by an additional 25 days, totaling around 50 days, without any increase in his remuneration. He expressed his frustration, stating, “When we sign an agreement, we’re told it’s a 20-day or 25-day shoot. Based on that, we decide our payment. But when, after the 25-day shoot is over, they ask for 10 more days, and then another 15 days after that. I felt this was not right. The payment wasn’t increased.”
Support Staff Earned More
Highlighting the disparity, Khan revealed that Akshay Kumar’s staff, who were paid on a per-day basis, ended up earning more than him. He remarked, “For us, it was fixed that we would do the film for Rs 1 lakh, whether it took 20 days or 25 days. But the staff works on a per-day basis. Just imagine how much money we would have made if we were also paid per day.”
Producer’s Response
When Khan approached the producer regarding the extended shoot and requested additional payment, he was told to be grateful for being part of such a significant film. The producer refused to increase his pay, leaving Khan feeling exploited. He chose not to discuss the matter with Akshay Kumar or Anil Kapoor, emphasizing that his concerns were with the production system rather than the actors themselves.
Legacy of ‘Welcome’
Directed by Anees Bazmee, Welcome featured an ensemble cast, including Akshay Kumar, Anil Kapoor, Nana Patekar, and Katrina Kaif. The film was a massive hit and became a franchise with sequels like Welcome Back and the upcoming Welcome to the Jungle.
Khan’s portrayal of Ballu remains a fan favorite, especially in today’s meme culture. Despite the pay issues, he expressed satisfaction that his role continues to be celebrated.
Broader Implications
Khan’s revelations shed light on the broader issue of pay disparities in the film industry, particularly affecting character actors who contribute significantly to a film’s success but often do not receive commensurate compensation. His experience underscores the need for more equitable pay structures and better treatment of supporting actors in Bollywood.
As the industry continues to evolve, Khan’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and fairly compensating all contributors to a film’s success.
Conclusion
Veteran actor Mushtaq Khan recently opened up about the pay disparity he experienced during the filming of the 2007 Bollywood hit Welcome. In an interview with Filmymantra Media, Khan revealed that he was paid less than the support staff of lead actor Akshay Kumar, despite the extended shooting schedule.
Veteran actor Mushtaq Khan disclosed that he was underpaid for his role in the film Welcome, earning less than Akshay Kumar’s staff. He expressed that his compensation did not increase despite the film’s success.
Despite the pay issues, Khan’s portrayal of Ballu, the quirky lawyer to Nana Patekar’s character Uday Shetty, remains a fan favorite. He expressed satisfaction that his role continues to be celebrated, especially through memes and social media, even years after the film’s release.
This revelation sheds light on the broader issue of pay disparities in the film industry, particularly affecting character actors who contribute significantly to a film’s success but often do not receive commensurate compensation.
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