Seasoned actor Anita Kanwal has raised concerns about the widening disparity in how film budgets are allocated, pointing to the excessive resources consumed by leading stars and their extensive entourages. Speaking candidly about the industry's economic realities, she revealed that top actors often arrive on sets with seven vanity vans and teams of up to 50 people, leaving minimal funds for character actors who form the backbone of any production.
The veteran performer's observations shed light on a persistent issue in Indian cinema, where the lion's share of production budgets goes towards accommodating star demands rather than ensuring fair compensation across the cast. This imbalance, she suggests, has made it increasingly difficult for talented character actors to earn sustainable livelihoods despite their crucial contributions to storytelling.
The issue resonates particularly in regional film industries, including Bihar's growing cinema scene, where budgets are already constrained compared to big-budget Bollywood productions. As the industry grapples with rising costs and changing audience preferences, Kanwal's remarks have sparked debate about whether production houses need to reassess their spending priorities.
Her comments come at a time when several character actors have spoken about payment delays and reduced opportunities, highlighting the need for more equitable distribution of resources in film-making. The conversation underscores broader questions about sustainability and fairness in India's entertainment industry.