Upasana Singh Says Actors in the Film Industry Face Exploitation, Struggle to Make Ends Meet

Veteran actress Upasana Singh, best known as “Bua” from The Kapil Sharma Show, has raised serious concerns about the harsh realities of the entertainment industry. Speaking about her experiences and observations after becoming the Secretary General of CINTAA (Cine & TV Artists Association), she revealed the struggles many actors face behind the glamour.

The Hidden Struggles of Actors
Upasana told IANS, “People often don’t see the dark side of the film industry. Common people think this is a glamorous life and that actors live comfortably. But the truth is very different.”

She added that after assuming her role in CINTAA, actors began approaching her with their grievances. “Many revealed that they barely earn ₹1,200 in a year. Some get only four or five working days, where 25% of their ₹5,000 payment is deducted. Despite working so hard, they often receive their earnings after 90 or sometimes 120 days.”

Upasana highlighted the impact of these delays: “If a person earns ₹5,000 per day, ₹25,000 can go as TDS and deductions. Then coordinators take their commission. How much is left? And this is in a city like Mumbai, where rent, children’s school fees, and household expenses are very high.”

Actors Struggle to Meet Basic Expenses
The actress emphasized how many actors cannot even afford medical care. “I realized that many people cannot take care of their health. Due to lack of money, they cannot visit doctors. They struggle to run their homes, pay school fees, and survive in the industry,” she said.

A Painful Reality
“I felt very sad because I am fortunate as an actress. I got good work, lead roles, and blessings. But seeing the plight of others deeply affected me. Now we are continuously trying to help them,” Upasana added.

About Upasana Singh
Upasana Singh has been married to actor Neeraj Bhardwaj, known for shows like Prem Shastra, CID, Bairister Roy, and Sath Nibhana Saathiya. Though they separated later, they have remained on good terms.

Career Highlights
Upasana has had a career spanning nearly four decades in films and television. She appeared in Hindi and Punjabi films like Judwaa, Hulchul, Hungama, Golmaal Returns, and Chak De Phatte. On television, she became a household name with her comedic role as Pinky Bua in Comedy Nights with Kapil and The Kapil Sharma Show.