Veteran actor Manoj Bajpayee, renowned for his powerful performances, has once again highlighted the stark pay disparity in Bollywood. Despite a career filled with critical acclaim, the actor candidly admits he still feels undercompensated, especially when compared to the industry's top stars.
'The Battle for Better Pay is Still Ongoing'
In a recent, frank conversation with India Today, Bajpayee was asked if his remuneration improved for the highly anticipated third season of his hit web series, 'The Family Man'. The actor's response was poignant and revealing. "Whatever we get will not be as much as that," he stated, implying a vast gap between his earnings and those of the top echelon.
He elaborated further, shedding light on the financial reality for many acclaimed actors. "We don't get that much, what you read about stars getting in the news. We continue to struggle for better money; the battle for the same is still ongoing," Bajpayee shared. This echoes his sentiments from 2023, when he had openly expressed feeling "underpaid" in comparison to superstars like Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan.
'Nothing Has Changed': The 'Sasta Mazdoor' Feeling Persists
When probed if he still harboured the feeling of being a "Sasta Mazdoor" (cheap labour) or if his recent successes had changed his circumstances, Bajpayee's answer was blunt: "Nothing (has changed)." He even joked darkly, "I'm under the MGNREGA scheme," referencing the government's rural employment guarantee act. However, he did acknowledge that his situation is "a bit better than before," offering a sliver of optimism.
Choosing Art Over Money: The 'Jugnu' Example
Beyond the discussion of pay disparity, Bajpayee revealed a principled approach to his craft. He often accepts significantly lower fees to enable the production of films he believes in. Citing the example of a film like 'Jugnu', he explained his rationale. "If they had given me that money, how would they have made that film? We have to let things go if we have to satisfy the artist in us and also push great films," he said.
"I have worked on many small films and taken a fee according to their budget, because I believe in their storytelling and passion," the actor added, underscoring his commitment to meaningful cinema over financial gain. He concluded by affirming his professional integrity, stating that once he commits to a project, he never backs out.
About 'The Family Man 3'
Manoj Bajpayee reprises his iconic role as Srikant Tiwari in the third season of the espionage thriller. The series, which also stars Jaideep Ahlawat, Nimrat Kaur, Sharib Hashmi, and Priyamani, has already premiered on a leading OTT platform, receiving widespread acclaim for its gripping narrative and Bajpayee's compelling performance.
