Upasana Singh, widely recognized as Bua from "The Kapil Sharma Show," recently shed light on the harsh realities that lie beneath the entertainment industry's glamorous facade. In a candid conversation with IANS, Singh revealed the struggles, competition, and uncertainties that many individuals face behind the scenes.
"People don't see the darkness behind the film industry," Singh stated, challenging the common perception that actors lead comfortable and problem-free lives. She emphasized that the industry often conceals the demanding nature of the profession.
Singh's understanding of the industry's struggles deepened when she became the general secretary of the Cine & TV Artistes Association (CINTAA). In this role, she encountered numerous artists facing severe financial difficulties. "They told me they could hardly earn Rs 1,200 in a year," she recounted. Many reported getting work for only four or five days a month, with coordinators taking a 25 percent commission from their earnings. Furthermore, payments were often delayed by 90 to 120 days, adding to their financial strain.
Singh highlighted the financial challenges of living in a city like Mumbai, where rent, school fees, and household expenses are high. She illustrated the situation with an example: "If someone earns Rs 5,000 per day, in Rs 25,000 TDS is deducted. After that, the coordinator takes his commission. So how much is really left?".
The actress expressed her concern for those who cannot afford basic healthcare. "I realised that many people are not even able to take care of their health. They cannot go to doctors because they don't have money," she said. "They struggle to run their homes, pay their children's school fees, and even survive in the industry".
Singh acknowledged her own fortunate position in the industry. "I felt very sad because I am an actress and, by God's grace, I have been fortunate," she stated. "I got good work, I played lead roles, and I received many blessings. But when I saw the condition of these people...".
Singh's revelations provide a stark contrast to the perceived glamour of the film industry. Her insights underscore the financial struggles and uncertainties faced by many artists, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and support within the entertainment world. While the world often sees the red carpets and award shows, Singh brings attention to the daily battles fought by those trying to make a living in the industry.
