Lights, camera, crisis: Bollywood’s behind-the-scenes workers struggle amid slowdown Many workers within the industry say the slowdown has been unfolding for several months. A significant number of workers say they are either receiving very little work or being paid substantially less than before. Many claimed that even when projects are available, their earnings have fallen by nearly 50 to 60 per cent compared to previous years. The real burden is being carried by the thousands of workers behind the scenes who keep the industry functioning on a daily basis. Character actors, assistant directors, makeup artists, personal gym trainers attached to actors, lightmen, camera crews, spot boys, production assistants, editors, equipment vendors, and technical staff are among those facing the hardest impact. Most of them rely entirely on daily shoots and project-based income. Once productions slow down, their earnings disappear almost instantly. Film budgets are shrinking, digital platforms have become more cautious with spending, and producers are postponing projects amid uncertainty in the market. As a result, junior and mid-level workers are struggling to find regular employment. The crisis becomes even harsher in Mumbai, where the cost of living is already among the highest in the country. Most production companies, casting agencies, and entertainment offices operate from areas such as Andheri, Juhu, and Bandra. Renting even a small apartment in these localities can cost nearly ₹50,000 a month, and often even more. For workers whose income has been reduced by half, managing daily life in the city is turning into a constant struggle. Several technicians and support workers are reportedly exhausting their savings, borrowing from relatives and friends, or taking up temporary side jobs simply to cover rent and household costs.#bollywood #mumbai #juhu #bandra #andheri
Actor Aayush Sharma Reveals Father Cut Off Financial Support When He Wanted to Pursue Acting: ‘I Had Just Rs 20 Left….’ Aayush Sharma, the actor known for his roles in Bollywood films like Loveyatri (2018) and Ruslaan (2024), recently shared the challenging journey that led him to the film industry. His story highlights the personal and financial struggles he faced when pursuing his passion for acting, despite his family’s strong opposition. Sharma revealed that his father, who initially supported his education, eventually withdrew financial backing after realizing his son’s ambitions were not aligned with the family’s expectations. Sharma’s path to Bollywood began with a move to Mumbai, where he enrolled in a Bachelor of Management Studies program at Jai Hind College. During this time, he lived comfortably, renting an apartment in Bandra, employing domestic help, and even convincing his father to purchase a car for him. However, his focus quickly shifted from academics to exploring acting. He began attending professional workshops, which led to a significant decline in his college attendance. This prompted the college authorities to contact his father in Himachal Pradesh, sparking a tense confrontation. The father, who had initially taken pride in his son’s move to Mumbai as a step toward a successful future, became concerned when he learned about Sharma’s low attendance. During the meeting, Sharma finally admitted his true aspiration: to become an actor. His father’s reaction was harsh and discouraging. He criticized Sharma’s physical appearance, personality, and overall suitability for the film industry, drawing comparisons to legendary stars like Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra. The father made it clear he did not see his son fitting into the Bollywood elite or succeeding as a leading man.#himachal_pradesh #aayush_sharma #jai_hind_college #salman_khan_films #bandra
