Television actor Saanand Verma, widely recognized for his iconic role as Anokhilal Saxena in the beloved show "Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hain!", has recently opened up about the ongoing debate surrounding the demanding working conditions in the television industry. In an exclusive conversation with IANS, Verma shared his candid insights on the challenges faced by actors and crew members alike.
Saanand Verma on Exhaustion and Burnout
When asked about the potential for burnout due to long working hours, Saanand Verma responded with a resilient perspective. He stated, "Exhaustion does not scare me." Reflecting on his personal journey, Verma explained that he has encountered significant struggles in life, which have hardened him against the fear of fatigue. However, he was quick to acknowledge that this does not diminish the seriousness of the issue. "Long working hours are definitely a serious problem," he emphasized, highlighting the need for attention to this pervasive concern in the industry.
Payment Delays: A Major Hurdle
Beyond the physical toll of extended shoots, Saanand Verma pointed out another critical problem plaguing television professionals: delayed payments. He revealed, "Sometimes, you work hard and receive payment months later." Verma stressed that, in an ideal scenario, payments should be disbursed within a reasonable timeframe to ensure fairness and stability for all involved. This issue, he noted, adds an extra layer of stress to an already demanding profession.
Lack of Regulation in the Industry
Drawing from his own experiences, Saanand Verma shared an anecdote about participating in shoots that lasted for excessively long hours, a situation he vowed never to repeat. He attributed such occurrences to a broader systemic flaw: "The root problem is that our industry is not properly regulated." According to Verma, the absence of stable rules and guidelines creates difficulties for everyone, from actors to production staff, leading to inconsistent working conditions and unfair practices.
Saanand Verma's Philosophy on Life and Happiness
When questioned if he has ever felt like giving up amidst these challenges, Saanand Verma offered a refreshing outlook. He shared, "I live in the present moment. I do not dwell on the past or worry too much about the future." Verma believes in embracing unconditional happiness and gratitude, stating, "God has given me more than enough, and I consider myself fortunate." His approach is to stay relaxed and trust in the journey of life, a mindset that helps him navigate the ups and downs of his career.
Upcoming Projects and Exciting Ventures
Looking ahead, Saanand Verma has a promising lineup of projects that fans can anticipate. He is set to appear in "Bakra Cricket", "Ghunghat", and "Section One Zero Eight", among others. Additionally, for those unaware, the popular series "Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hain!" has been adapted into a movie, featuring some new and exciting faces to add fresh energy to the franchise.
In a related note, Saanand Verma also advocates for a safe and environmentally conscious Diwali, urging people to say no to crackers and stay indoors to celebrate responsibly.