Pooja Entertainment, the production company of Jackky Bhagnani, known for films like “Bell Bottom” and “Bade Miyan Chote Miyan”, is embroiled in a controversy.
Several crew members have taken to social media to accuse the company of withholding their salaries for long periods and of unprofessional behaviour.
The issue came to light in June 2024 when Ruchita Kamble, a Pooja Entertainment staff member, aired her grievances on Instagram.
She claimed that she and her team had not received payment for almost a year. She criticized the production company for initially promising payment within 45-60 working days of the project’s completion, which she described as “unprofessional”. However, this schedule was not followed either.
A Trail of Silence Broken
While the recent social media outburst brought the issue to the forefront, reports suggest this may not be an isolated incident. Crew members, speaking on condition of anonymity, shared experiences of facing similar delays with past Pooja Entertainment projects.
These accounts paint a picture of a potentially systemic problem within the company. Some crew members allege that delayed payments seem to be standard practice, with justifications ranging from budget overruns to cash flow issues.
#JackkyBhagnani‘s Pooja Entertainment crew members accuse his production house of not paying 2 years’ salarieshttps://t.co/yiTfFcvZhN
— Pinkvilla (@pinkvilla) June 22, 2024
This lack of transparency and disregard for timely compensation breeds frustration and resentment among crew members. Furthermore, it raises questions about the financial health of the production house and its ability to manage its projects effectively.
Impact on Pooja Entertainment
These allegations pose a significant reputational risk for Pooja Entertainment. The film industry thrives on trust and collaboration. A production house is only as good as the talent it attracts and retains. If these accusations hold weight, it could be difficult for Pooja Entertainment to attract top-tier crew members in the future.
Skilled and experienced professionals have other options, and they are likely to prioritize working with companies that have a reputation for fair treatment and timely compensation. Furthermore, established actors and directors might be hesitant to collaborate with a company facing such serious allegations.
Actors and directors rely on the production house to deliver a quality film that meets their creative vision and strengthens their careers. A company embroiled in controversy over unpaid dues and unprofessional conduct may not be seen as a reliable or trustworthy partner.
Industry-Wide Repercussions
These allegations highlight a larger concern within the Indian film industry – the timely payment of crew members. There have been past instances of similar accusations against other production houses. Industry bodies and unions might need to step up and establish stricter regulations to ensure fair treatment of crew members and timely payment of salaries.
This is not just about protecting individual crew members from financial hardship. A well-functioning film industry relies on a talented and motivated workforce. This can have a ripple effect, impacting the quality of film productions and the overall competitiveness of the Indian film industry in the global market.
Industry bodies can play a crucial role in addressing this issue. They can develop and enforce clear standards for film production contracts, ensuring that crew members are paid fairly and on time. They can also provide resources and support to crew members who face challenges with late or unpaid wages. Building a culture of respect and fair compensation is essential for creating a sustainable and successful film industry.
Pooja Entertainment: Damage Control by a Multi-Step Process
First, they need to publicly acknowledge the crew’s concerns, apologize, and establish a committee to investigate and resolve outstanding payments.
Long-term, a financial audit and stricter controls are essential to prevent future issues. Contracts should be reviewed to ensure clear communication on finances and working conditions. Transparency is key. Regularly update crew on finances and timelines, and actively engage with industry bodies to demonstrate a commitment to ethical practices.
Finally, invest in creating a positive work environment with competitive pay, benefits, and a culture of respect. By taking these steps and demonstrating genuine commitment to change, Pooja Entertainment can begin to rebuild trust and secure a more sustainable future.