In an exclusive interview with PeepingMoon, Rajeev Khandelwal shared his thoughts on the ongoing debate of pay cheques and pay disparity in the Bollywood film industry. The actor, who has transitioned from television to films, blames producers for creating the trend of high-pay cheques and now complaining about it.
Khandelwal agrees that there is a pay disparity issue, but emphasizes that it’s a result of the industry’s focus on success. He states, “This is an industry where people only salute your success… When success happens, packages become a topic of discussion, and disparity arises.”
The actor points fingers at producers, saying, “If producers have problems with actors demanding high pay packages, they should remember that they created these actors and their demands.” He adds, “You started this trend, and now you’re dealing with it. If you had set boundaries earlier, like not allowing actors’ families to stay in 5-star hotels or eat on the producer’s expense, this problem wouldn’t exist.”
Khandelwal, known for his roles in films like “Aamir”, “Table No. 21”, and the recent web series “Showtime”, brings his television experience to the film industry. He has worked with prominent directors and actors, and his comments shed light on the industry’s inner workings. By holding producers accountable, Khandelwal sparks a conversation about the industry’s practices and the need for change.
In his latest show “Showtime”, Khandelwal plays a pivotal role alongside Emraan Hashmi and Mouni Roy. The Karan Johar-backed series offers a glimpse into the glamourous world of Bollywood, and Khandelwal’s performance has received praise. With “Showtime”, Khandelwal continues to prove his versatility as an actor, taking on complex characters and showcasing his range.
