'18-Hour Shifts, Salary After 90 Days': Veteran Actor Sudhir Pandey Says He Deserves a Better Industry

Veteran actor Sudhir Pandey, known for his decades-long contribution to Indian cinema and television, has spoken candidly about the challenges senior actors continue to face in the entertainment industry. The 72-year-old actor revealed that despite years of experience, artists are often made to work exhausting schedules and wait months to receive their payments, prompting him to say that he deserves "a better industry."

Long Hours and Delayed Payments

In a recent interview, Sudhir Pandey shared that actors are frequently required to work 18-hour shifts, leaving little time for rest or personal life. He also highlighted the industry's payment practices, claiming that artists often receive their remuneration only after 90 days, despite completing demanding schedules.

Calling the situation unfair, Pandey questioned why professionals who dedicate years to entertaining audiences are not treated with greater dignity and respect.

Calls for Better Working Conditions

The veteran actor stressed that the film and television industry needs significant reforms, especially when it comes to working hours and timely payments. He said that such practices take a physical and mental toll on actors, particularly senior artistes, who continue to work with dedication despite their age.

Pandey added that basic professionalism—including honouring contracts and paying artists on time—should become standard across the industry.

A Career Spanning Decades

Sudhir Pandey has built a respected career across films, television, and theatre, appearing in numerous acclaimed projects over several decades. His honest remarks have resonated with many in the entertainment industry, where concerns about long working hours and delayed payments have been raised repeatedly by actors and technicians alike.

His comments have also sparked conversations on social media, with many users supporting his demand for improved working conditions and greater respect for veteran performers.

Industry Debate Continues

Pandey's statement has reignited discussions about labour practices in the entertainment sector. While production houses often cite tight shooting schedules and financial processes as reasons for delays, industry professionals continue to push for reforms that ensure healthier work environments and prompt compensation.

As conversations around workplace rights gain momentum, Sudhir Pandey's remarks serve as a reminder that experience and dedication deserve not only recognition but also fair treatment.