Abhishek Banerjee advocates for fair compensation practices amid rising film budget concerns

Abhishek Banerjee, a prominent figure in the entertainment industry known for his dual roles as a casting director and actor, offers thought-provoking perspectives on the escalating budgets and compensation disparities prevalent in the realm of showbiz.

With upcoming projects such as 'Stree 2' and 'Rana Naidu 2' on the horizon, Banerjee delves into the profound spiritual journey inherent in the acting profession, emphasizing that it transcends mere glamour. "Acting is not always about glam. It is a very spiritual journey. You have to walk alone, experience things by yourself. You keep practicing. Not everybody is seeking gold, some are happy with what they have," he articulates, shedding light on the intrinsic motivations that drive performers.

In a candid discussion, Banerjee addresses the pressing issue of escalating film budgets attributed to inflated star fees and additional demands. Distinguishing between actors and stars, he asserts, "You are talking about stars, not actors. That’s completely a star thing, one can’t blame actors for that. The producers have to decide," underscoring the nuanced dynamics at play within the industry.

Drawing from his extensive experience as a casting director, Banerjee highlights the adverse impact of excessive star demands on the equitable distribution of compensation. "So many unnecessary demands are made by certain stars. What happens because of that is actors ko paise nahi milte," he laments, revealing the systemic inequities that undermine the financial well-being of talented actors.

Recalling poignant anecdotes from his casting director days, Banerjee elucidates the challenges posed by budget constraints in securing proficient talent for projects. "Sometimes good actors get peanuts for a show or a film. Star value, of course, gets people to the theaters and buy tickets, but at the same time, an actor also adds the same value to a story," he emphasizes, advocating for a more equitable remuneration structure.

In essence, Abhishek Banerjee's candid insights spark a crucial dialogue on the imperative need for fairness and transparency in compensation practices within the entertainment industry, urging stakeholders to prioritize the well-being and financial dignity of all talent involved in the creative process.