Actor Neeraj Madhav says that there are equal pay issues in Malayalam cinema, but it is not just a gender-based issue. Neeraj Madhav said that he too had to go through situations where he was paid unfairly.
In an interview, Neeraj said that there have been incidents where even actors who did not bring much business to the film were paid more than him. Neeraj Madhav spoke in support of Aparna Balamurali's opinion that they are not demanding equal pay, but fair pay.
Neeraj Madhav’s words:
“When it comes to issues related to equal pay, it is often seen as a gender-based issue. It is a reality, not a non-existent one. But I can only speak for myself. I don't know anything about the salary of the supporting actresses, so I can't say much about it. At a growing stage, when we have no voice, people try to oppress us by putting a tag on all that we are worth.
I have also had to go through situations where I was paid unfairly. That too is due to some other issues that are not even of commercial value. Even those who don't feel that the film is bringing in that much business, say, "They can't help but give something."
The bottom line is to make the choice not to work for that money. But it is impossible to leave it at a stage where it is difficult to enter. But what can be done is to ask for such a position after securing it. This is a very complicated matter. If you think commercially, they ask, is it possible to sell the film under your name? Certainly when you consider cinema as a business. Whether the talent of the artist is respected is a dilemma. It has to be done by having a position in between.”
Both of them spoke about equal pay in an interview during the promotion of Sundari Gardens. The film stars Neeraj Madhav and Aparna Balamurali. Sundari Gardens was released on September 2 on Sony LIV. The film is written and directed by newcomer Charlie Davis. The film is produced by Salim Ahmed, Kabir Kottaram, and Razaq Ahmed under the banner of Allans Media.
