Technicians, crew rue not receiving timely support
The Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdown has affected every strata of society, and the entertainment industry, too, has taken a huge hit, with spot boys, make-up artistes, hair stylists, costume-wig-prop makers, technicians and even supporting actors feeling the heat as they struggle to make ends meet.
While actors and filmmakers have extended support via Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) and Cine And TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA), many workers allege they haven’t received much help yet. Saraswati Gupta, a hairstylist shares, “I have only received 20% of what was promised.” Her colleague, MK Naveen, wig-maker and make-up artiste has faced a similar experience: “Bus ek baar thoda ration mila. Mere bahut pehchaan waalon ko kuch nahi mila hai.”
Sunil Kasbe, AdHoc General Secretary, Cine Costume, Make-Up Artiste and Hairdresser Association, says, “We requested Ashok Dubey, general secretary, FWICE, to help, but they are supporting those who are on good terms with them. Once the lockdown ends, workers who haven’t got anything, will protest.” Makeup artiste Prashant Kamle, questions, “Donations of over ₹20 crore has come to the federation. Who’ve they been distributed to?”
Ashoke Pandit, chief advisor, FWICE, and president, Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association, says there are 32 organisations with 5,00,000 members under FWICE. The association has messaged all members. “We’ve also distributed ration and food coupons,” he says.
But what about those who haven’t received anything? “Some have shared wrong IFSC codes and numbers. There are others who have given their details to multiple organisations and have received money twice or thrice. So we’re sorting that. Everyone will get help,” he adds.
CINTAA senior joint secretary & chairman, Outreach Committee, Amit Behl adds, “The condition of actors who do small roles is worse. We’ve put up requests on various online charitable websites and reached out to international broadcasters.”