In a recent appearance on Vasay Chaudhry’s Eid show, Mahira Khan revisited a longstanding concern in Pakistan’s film industry: the lack of a structured salary system.
Mahira’s Aag Lagey Basti Main co-star Fahad Mustafa was also present as she discussed the unequal distribution of pay, highlighting how new actors often struggle just to “survive,” while senior actors manage to secure work and revenue with relative ease.
When asked about a resurfaced post of hers advocating for artist royalties, Mahira said, “I think world over there is a certain amount that goes to artists as royalties. I’m not saying we should exactly follow Hollywood, but it is a system that ensures artists don’t go hungry.”
She stressed that Pakistan’s entertainment industry needs a formal system that provides at least a baseline of financial protection. “Yes, there are many artists who are homeless or go bankrupt, but that’s mainly because they were unable to save,” she added.
Mahira also pointed out that broadcasters and TV channels often benefit from multiple revenue streams far more than the actors appearing on their shows.
“I feel if channels earn so much money, some of which we may not even be aware of, artists like us still struggle to survive,” she noted.
She further stressed that junior artists, supporting actors, technicians, and crew members rarely enjoy the same advantages.
Although organisations like the Actors Collective Trust and the Pakistan Broadcasters Association aim to support actors, their efforts have so far done little to effectively address these issues.
Veteran actor Naila Jaffery also highlighted this problem during her battle with cancer, when she had to cover her medical expenses herself.
Mahira’s comments underline the need for wider discussion on this topic to bring about meaningful change.
The star acknowledged that while she benefits from her success as one of Pakistan’s leading stars, she hoped that everyone in the industry receives the same level of recognition and support.
