Karachi, March 25: Actor Mahira Khan has highlighted concerns about “unfair” revenue distribution in Pakistan’s entertainment industry, saying the absence of a structured royalty system leaves many artists and crew members financially vulnerable. Speaking during promotions for her upcoming film Aag Lagay Basti Main, she said the current model disproportionately benefits a few while many behind-the-scenes workers struggle.
Khan said that although leading stars often remain financially stable, junior artists and technical crew face significant hardship due to the lack of consistent income beyond project-based payments. She stressed that a formal royalty framework could provide basic financial protection across the industry.
Call for structured royalty system
Referring to international practices, Khan noted that while no system is perfect, established royalty mechanisms in global industries help ensure artists continue earning from their work. She said such systems can reduce financial insecurity, even though individuals must still manage their finances responsibly.
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Khan also pointed to multiple revenue streams earned by television channels and production houses, some of which are not fully transparent to performers. She suggested that a more equitable sharing model could help sustain a broader segment of industry workers.
Renewed focus on long-standing issue
The issue of artist royalties in Pakistan gained wider attention in 2021 when veteran actor Naila Jaffery, during her battle with cancer, publicly called for royalty payments to support artists facing medical and financial challenges. Despite public discussion at the time, no formal system has been implemented.
Khan’s recent remarks have brought renewed attention to the question of how profits are distributed within Pakistan’s entertainment sector, particularly for those working behind the scenes.
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