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Fatima Sana Shaikh says supporting actors never get respect on set: 'It’s hurtful to be treated as a second-class human being'

| TOI Entertainment Desk | etimes.in | Jan 27, 2025, 22:51 IST
Actress Fatima Sana Shaikh, celebrated for her performances in Da... Read More
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Actress Fatima Sana Shaikh, celebrated for her performances in Dangal, Ludo, and other notable projects, recently shared insights into her journey in television and films. Reflecting on her early career, the actress revealed her experiences as a child artist in movies such as 'Chachi 420', 'Ishq', and 'One 2 Ka 4'. Shaikh also spoke about her struggles as a supporting actress, particularly in daily soaps, and the challenges she faced due to the treatment meted out by production teams.

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Speaking candidly about her stint in television during an interview with Bollywood Bubble, Fatima said, “When you are not the lead, the side characters, juniors, or those in smaller roles don’t receive the same respect or treatment. They are often treated poorly on set, almost as if they’re just there to sign in, like a daily attendance routine.”

The actress revealed that delayed payments were a common issue in the television industry, with actors often waiting three to four months for their earnings. She explained how stringent attendance requirements compounded the difficulties, stating that missing a signature could result in a day’s work not being recorded, even if the actor was present on set.

Fatima expressed her disappointment at the lack of basic respect for smaller roles and supporting actors, sharing, “You might earn ₹1500 per day, which, at the age of 14 or 15, seemed like a lot to me. But even then, the treatment wasn’t good. It’s hurtful to be treated as a second-class human being. Regardless of how small your role is, if you’re on set, you deserve respect.”

She highlighted the plight of daily wage workers, such as crew members and lightmen, who often live hand-to-mouth. She criticised the lack of empathy within production teams.
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