Prominent television actress Nowshin Ali Sardar has sharply criticized the working conditions within the small screen industry. The actress, who gained fame from her leading role in the series 'Qusum' in 2001, raised concerns about basic amenities on set, excessively long working hours, and delays in receiving remuneration.
Over more than two decades of her career, Nowshin has worked in both film and television. Recently, she participated in the project 'Vasudha' as Chandrika Singh Chauhan. Furthermore, she was part of shows such as 'High on Bolo Bolo,' 'Adventures of Hatim,' 'I Will Be a Horse,' 'Aladdin – Did You Hear the Name,' and 'Rain – Weather of Love.'
Nowshin clarified that her statements are not directed against any specific project. She emphasized that she is a professional actor and does not interfere with the script or creative decisions after signing a contract, but inhumane treatment on set is unacceptable to her.
The actress stated that the absence of air conditioning, proper restroom facilities, or even a 15-minute lunch break is unacceptable. She noted that daily work of 12–14 hours and filming for about 25 days a month are challenging in themselves. Under such conditions, if artists are not treated like human beings, it borders on exploitation.
Nowshin strongly stated that such an environment makes her feel like a factory slave or an animal, and she will not be a part of that. She insists that her peace of mind is a priority, and every artist must receive respect and basic dignity in the workplace.
The actress pointed to the need for the creation of a regulatory body to protect the interests of artists in the television industry. In her opinion, the industry requires a strict and honest official, similar to Tukaram IAS, who will defend the rights of actors and prevent their exploitation.
Nowshin stressed that the industry needs an official like Tukaram IAS who will promote the benefit of actors and protect their interests, as slavery is unacceptable. She also raised issues regarding long working shifts and untimely payment. According to the actress, working 15–18 hours or not paying artists on time is absolutely unacceptable.
According to Nowshin, artists in the television sector often have to wait 90 to 120 days for payment. The situation is aggravated when a project suddenly closes, and the artists' money remains frozen. She called this system extremely unfair, noting that artists work long hours but receive their earnings months later.
The actress proposed a simplified payment scheme: if the channel transfers funds to the producer, the producer must transfer the money to the artist within 45 days. Nowshin believes that having to independently pursue her rightful payment after filming is very exhausting.