Renowned Pakistani director and screenwriter Mehreen Jabbar has voiced her frustration over a growing issue in the local entertainment industry — delayed payments by production houses. In a recent YouTube interview, Mehreen spoke candidly about the struggles artists and technical teams face when chasing payments after completing projects.
“We Have to Beg for Our Money” – Mehreen’s Honest Confession
Mehreen Jabbar, known for hit dramas like Dauraha, Dam, Mata-e-Jaan, and the acclaimed film Ramchand Pakistani, revealed that even experienced professionals are not spared from the industry’s financial mismanagement.
She stated,
> “In the US, no matter what the problems are, at least you know when you’ll be paid. Here in Pakistan, we have to run after production houses like beggars to get our own money.”
This statement came in response to a question about whether she personally faces these issues — to which she confirmed with disappointment.
A Systemic Problem Affecting All Levels
According to Mehreen, it’s not just directors and actors who suffer. The problem runs deep, affecting spot boys, assistants, and the entire technical crew.
“There’s no proper system in place here,” she said, “Ask anyone in the industry and you’ll hear countless stories about delayed payments.”
Cost-Cutting Hurts the Technical Crew the Most
While production houses attempt to cut costs, it is often the behind-the-scenes workers who suffer the most. Mehreen emphasized that many teams continue to work under stress because they are unsure whether they’ll be compensated on time.
Ramsha Khan and Khushhal Khan Also Spoke Out
Earlier, actors Ramsha Khan and Khushhal Khan also raised concerns over this troubling trend. Though they didn’t name names, both actors expressed how such practices harm creativity and dignity.
> “It has become so common that actors feel their self-respect is being compromised,” they said, adding that financial instability forces them to make compromises in their careers.
Time for Industry-Wide Reform
The issue of delayed payments is no longer a hidden problem. When respected names like Mehreen Jabbar speak out, it becomes clear that systematic change is necessary. Ensuring timely payments isn’t just about fairness — it’s about building a sustainable, respec
tful environment for all creative professionals.
