Showing posts with label CINTAA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label CINTAA. Show all posts
Shilpa Shinde on retracting her sexual harassment allegation against producer Sanjay Kohli: "I wanted to come clean"
10:56 PM
HINDUSTAN TIMES (June 4, 2026)
Nearly a decade after accusing Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hai! producer Sanjay Kohli of sexual harassment, actor Shilpa Shinde has claimed that the allegations were “false” and made because she had “no other option” to exit a contractual dispute.
Shilpa, who played Angoori Bhabhi before being replaced by Shubhangi Atre in 2016, was embroiled in one of TV’s biggest public fallouts. She had accused Kohli and the production team of sexual harassment, mental torture, non-payment of dues and creating a hostile work environment. The dispute also involved industry bodies, including CINTAA and the producers’ association, before ending in a settlement.
Speaking on Bharti Singh and Haarsh Limbachiyaa’s podcast, Shilpa said, “I filed a sexual harassment case against my producer because I had no other option. Eventually, I got out of that situation because the matter was settled. I filed the case on that basis because the police directly tell you that if you want an FIR registered, you have to make serious allegations.”
Shilpa said she felt trapped despite having quit the show and claimed Kohli later understood the circumstances that led to the complaint. “Poor man, he ended up getting defamed because of it. Today, through this platform, I want to say that it was false. I am confessing this for the first time,” she said.
Shilpa returned to Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hai! in 2025 and says she now shares a cordial relationship with the team. We reached out to Sanjay Kohli for comment. No response was received till the time of going to press.
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Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; June 5, 2026)
Nearly a decade after her acrimonious exit from the TV show Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hai!, Shilpa Shinde returned to the show last December. This came as a surprise to everyone because the actress had accused producer Sanjay Kohli of sexual harassment, non-payment of dues and creating a hostile work environment in 2016. In a recent podcast, Shilpa admitted that the allegation that she had made against him was false. Her remarks have also raised uncomfortable questions about accountability and the impact such reversals can have on survivors of workplace harassment. It is against this backdrop that we spoke to Shinde.
‘I cannot even begin to explain the kind of harassment I went through during that phase’
Recalling how the dispute escalated at that time, Shilpa says, “I was asked to sign an exclusivity contract with the channel for the show. In return, I asked for a 25 per cent raise and five days off every month, but they didn’t agree. After that, stories started circulating that I was troubling the producers and wasn’t reporting to the shoot. CINTAA (Cine and TV Artistes Association) asked me to resume shooting the very next day without anyone hearing my side of the story. I told them my dues of Rs. 37 lakh should be cleared, and then I would return to work immediately. Meanwhile, auditions for my replacement were being conducted without informing me.”
She adds, “No one was taking my calls. Main 20 saal se industry mein kaam kar rahi hoon, aur aap kisi ko is tarah badnaam karte ho. No one tried to understand the challenges I was dealing with. I cannot even begin to explain the kind of harassment I went through during that phase.”
‘Sanjay Kohli is a nice man and was the one person who could have resolved the issue back then’
Speaking about Sanjay Kohli, she says, “He is a nice man. He speaks softly and knows how to get work done. What I never understood was why he wasn’t present at the meetings around my exit. He was the one person who could have resolved the issue. The matter was eventually settled in court, and we agreed not to speak about each other after that. After all this, I continued receiving offers to return to Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hai! from different quarters. And finally, I took it up in December last year, and things have been fine between all of us.”
When asked whether her allegation could undermine the experiences of women who genuinely face sexual harassment, Shilpa says, “A year of my life went by dealing with all this. A fake MMS of mine was also circulated at the time, which caused even more stress. I have a family, too. Jo mere saath hua, I wanted to return it.”
I’m glad Shilpa came forward with the truth: Binaiferr Kohli
When contacted, Binaiferr Kohli chose not to comment on the larger controversy. She said, “Shilpa speaking up and admitting that she falsely accused my husband after so many years was unexpected. I am glad she came forward with the truth and clarified the matter, as we have always known what the truth was. We have moved on, and I do not wish to comment further on the matter.”
Shilpa’s admission that she falsely accused producer Sanjay Kohli has sparked a discussion in the industry. Hina Khan, without naming Shilpa, posted on Instagram.
She wrote, “Yes, using your sex to malign someone’s image in order to Win during a conflict is absolutely shameful. And everyone is Absolutely Right to Call it out and demand justice. I am shocked beyond words... But I want to talk about the “Real Victim” here. A respected Man with a wife, a daughter and many other women in his family.. A real hardworking producer with many iconic shows. Who went through such an ordeal. As admitted by the Female Actor, her allegations were not just baseless they were used to gain advantage, to win, to score, to claim, to settle without the utilisation of Law. And even after that, the SAME producer gives the SAME show to the SAME person. Another LAUNCHPAD, another MOUTHPIECE, another RELEVANCE, another CHANCE to legitimise her Fake Claim of SEXUAL ASSAULT.. What if the Actor repeats it? After all the actor has been given the same show by the one she falsely ACCUSED... I AM APPALLED. THE JOKE IS ON US (sic).”
Don 3 controversy: Producers Guild of India to address matter in February-end
10:52 AM
Amid Farhan Akhtar’s Rs 40 cr demand from Ranveer Singh over his ‘Don 3’ exit, sources say Producers Guild to meet both parties by Feb-end for resolution
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; February 14, 2026)
Ranveer Singh and filmmaker Farhan Akhtar’s ‘Don 3’ took an unexpected turn in the past few weeks when the actor exited the project, following which the filmmaker’s banner Excel Entertainment demanded Rs 40 crore from Singh in damages. The conflict appears to be nowhere near its end. Sources from the Producers Guild of India have told mid-day that the matter has not been formally tabled at its general meeting yet, but is lined up for February-end.
“No formal complaint has been placed before the general body. But both sides will be heard informally,” said a senior Guild member. Another insider shared that following the informal meetings at the month-end, both parties will be given a 10-day window to attempt a mutual resolution.
“If talks fail, the body is likely to escalate the issue to the Cine & TV Artistes Association [CINTAA]. CINTAA’s involvement would ensure that both producer and artiste’s interests are balanced,” said the insider.
Beyond dispute resolution, the case — in which Akhtar’s production house demanded compensation for losses incurred due to pre-production, scheduling disruption, and entourage costs — is also expected to become a reference point for policy reform with regard to escalating production costs.
The insider added, “Producers today are bearing disproportionate financial pressure due to expanding entourage. Seeing that stars’ entourages remain bloated, as evident from this case, it’s best to put guidelines in place.”
Complaint against Jaya Bachchan for remark against paps; Viral Bhayani breaks silence on controversy
11:01 AM
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; December 5, 2025)
At ‘We The Women’ event in Mumbai earlier this week, Jaya Bachchan expressed her displeasure with the paparazzi as she said, “Yeh gande gande pant pehen ke, mobile leke [aa jaate hai]… They think that because they have a mobile, they can take your picture, say what they want. The kind of comments they pass!” While the senior actor’s sharp comments were deemed as “elitist” by several industry voices, the issue has now escalated further. Some of Bollywood’s paparazzi agencies are preparing to file a formal complaint with the Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA) against the veteran actor’s remarks. They are said to be in discussions before submitting their official complaint.
Bachchan’s statements, where she questioned the background and attire of paparazzi, have left many in the community feeling demeaned, with some photo syndicates considering boycotting her.
Speaking to mid-day, Manav Manglani, who runs an entertainment photo syndicate of about 20 stringers, said, “She doesn’t want to be clicked; we won’t click her. Jaya ji is not someone who gets eyeballs anyway. If she is with her family and wishes to pose happily, then we may [photograph her].”
Leading photographer Varinder Chawla, who runs an agency employing 15 stringers, told mid-day that the remarks were uncalled for. “We should have some self-respect and not cover her. Every time we have clicked her pictures, we have referred to her as Jaya ji. She hasn’t been disrespected. It’s not okay for the privileged to insult those who are doing an honest day’s work. Jaya ji’s comments need to be responded to and sternly so. Why couldn’t Jaya ji have a conversation with us? We always listen. Ranbir [Kapoor] and Alia [Bhatt] asked us not to click Raha [their daughter], we don’t.”
Besides the complaint, the agencies, in association with CINTAA, are hoping to establish a code of conduct that addresses actors’ concerns about intrusion and safety, and paps’ concerns about mistreatment. Chawla admitted that zealous fans sometimes blend in with photographers, leading to incidents of verbal run-ins or crowding at events. The sentiment is that there is an urgent need for formal guidelines governing interactions between celebrities and photographers.
“There is no unity among paps today; anyone with a camera gets clubbed with us and we get a bad name. There are fans posing as us, trying to get inappropriate with actors. Between Yogen Shah and me, we want to ensure that a meeting takes place with actors where we can discuss the issues. Earlier, we had requested Suniel Shetty sir to facilitate this,” added Chawla.
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A lot of kids pretend to be paps, comment on celebrities-Viral Bhayani
Leading paparazzo Viral Bhayani talks about the unregulated pap culture, even as he calls out Jaya Bachchan for her statement about photographers’ clothes
I like Jaya Bachchan more than I do Amitabh Bachchan because I’m like her — I’m straight-forward, I say whatever is in my heart and that sometimes gets me in trouble. Jaya ji has been very sweet to me, and at times, she has snapped at me as well. You have to understand her mood. Every time I would ask her politely for a picture, she wouldn’t deny.
What she said is partially true, especially when she mentions that paps pass [disrespectful] comments. If you look at the history of paparazzi [in India], there were very few in the beginning. We had ethics and responsibility towards our work, and respected everyone. We maintained decorum. [We were mindful] about our language. Also, we weren’t loud. Patience is important in our profession. But today’s kids don’t have patience. They start screaming and get anxious when an artiste doesn’t come on time.
What has happened now is that the pap [culture] is not regulated. There are a lot of kids who just take phones and pretend to be paparazzi. In case they make a comment at a celebrity, we wouldn’t know. I’ve seen this happen outside some restaurants in Bandra. It’s awful.
Some of them click women if they are wearing short clothes. That has created a bad image of us. Paparazzi is not supposed to be running after semi-naked women. We are interested in good content and good celebrities.
We try to educate our [employees] about how to cover funerals as well. We tell them to cover it in a dignified manner. We should have a moral code, a shared sense of responsibility within the community on how to cover celebrities and events. For instance, I have a rule that nobody in my team will click selfies with celebrities. If you’re seen posing with your arm around a female celebrity, you’re out of my office.
But what I didn’t like is Jaya ji speaking about someone’s poverty. Anyone can be poor. Everyone works hard. Don’t underestimate anybody. I have also risen from a poor background. We change things with our hard work and determination. You can also not comment on someone’s attire. It’s not right to make such statements on clothes or someone’s appearance. Jaya ji works well on social media, but she does not like being filmed. That is her choice, and we can respect that. If at any point she feels [comfortable] with it, we’ll happily film her. There is no ban on her or her family.
As told to Priyanka Sharma
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The actor’s fraught relationship with the paps has sparked fresh controversy. She even questioned their background, triggering backlash from lensmen
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; December 4, 2025)
Actor and MP Jaya Bachchan’s on-off rapport with paparazzi sparked fresh chatter on Monday.
Talking to journalist Barkha Dutt, Jaya said she has ‘zero relationship’ with paps: “I am the product of a media. Who are these people? Are they trained to be representing the people of this country? You call them media? I come from media. My father was a journalist. I have immense respect for such people.”
She sparked a controversy saying: “Magar yeh jo bahar drainpipe tight, gande pant pehen ke, haath mein mobile leke… they think that because they have a mobile, they can take your picture and say what they want. The kind of comments they pass — what kind of people are these people? Kahan se aate hain? Kis tarah ka education hai? Kya background hai?”
We reached out to the paps, and they are naturally angry.
Varinder Chawla
I have been in the business for so many years, and respected whenever the celebs said something. Ranbir Kapoor said to not pap Raha, same for Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone’s Dua. In 2023, in fact, I had got a video of Amitabh ji from Delhi. Ek fan selfie ke liye aage badhi, unhone bure tareeke se dhakka de diya, chillaye. Seeing his age and image, I sent it to his PR, who requested me so much to not post it, so I didn’t. Humne unki izzat rakhi. I am not saying all the boys on field are right, I have told them to mind their language earlier too. But she should know - the paps which she is targeting, are they all paps, or YouTubers and fans in the mix too? Kisi ko aise bura mat boliye. I told my colleagues apni self respect rakhte hain, aur inko boycott karte hain.
Pallav Paliwal
It’s unfortunate, what she said. Her grandson Agastya’s film Ikkis is going to release, what if the paps don’t come to cover the promotions. Amitabh ji comes outside his house every Sunday, no leading media covers it, it’s us paps. Judging someone on the basis of their appearance, people who work tirelessly day and night… she might be of the opinion that we aren’t ‘media’, but we are social media. Print and electronic se zyaada fast dekhe jaane wala medium hai. If Jaya ji can promote Agastya’s film without paps, on her own, by posting on her social media pages, then okay. Aap itni badi hasti hain, aisa nahi bolna chahiye tha.
Manav Manglani
I respect Jaya ji a lot. But she has not yet evolved with the digital era. The transformation from print to digital is hard for her to grasp, maybe her kids and grandkids could make her understand. At the same time, the sudden influx of some YouTubers and individual content creators with good followers has created some chaos in the field, these guys go to any extent to get some kind of response from celebs which would make their video viral, which is not ethical at all and needs to be stopped immediately.
Ashoke Pandit posted on Insta, reacting to Jaya’s remarks, “Jaya Bachchan ji’s statement against the paparazzi reeks of snobbish elitism. To criticize the aggressive coverage of certain paps is one thing, but to demean the profession altogether, laced with downright classist remarks is unbecoming of such a senior member of our film industry and a parliamentarian. They’re hardworking professionals doing their job, for which most times they’ve been called by the stars and their PR teams themselves. So if she has such a strong opinion against the paparazzi culture, it’s time to look inwards rather than indulge in this misplaced outrage.”
I would like Arshad Warsi to undo the hurt which he may have caused artistes of Telugu industry-Poonam Dhillon
8:29 AM
CINTAA president Poonam Dhillon feels that Arshad Warsi didn’t mean to insult Prabhas with his ‘joker’ remark, adding that she will write to him and look forward to his side of the story
Yashika Mathur (HINDUSTAN TIMES; August 25, 2024)
Confirming that she received a letter from Telugu actor Vishnu Manchu that highlighted the hurt inflicted by actor Arshad Warsi’s recent comments about Kalki 2898 AD, CINTAA (Cine and TV Artistes Association) president Poonam Dhillon says she will write to the latter for a response.
“It is definitely something that has created a bit of unpleasantness, especially in the Telugu industry. We are also writing to Arshad Warsi and taking his feedback on that,” Dhillon tells us.
Emphasizing on the need for film industries to stay united, Dhillon insists that Warsi didn’t target Prabhas in his comments. “While I do believe that he may not have said it against Prabhas; it may be against the character in the film, I would still like him to clarify and if need be, undo the hurt which he may have caused artistes of the Telugu industry because we are all one industry,” says the veteran actor, adding, “Prabhas is one of the most decent, nice, respected people of the industry and I am sure it was not meant to hurt him as a person.”
Determined to settle this issue, Dhillon adds that all industries constitute one larger body of entertainment and that the episode should not be allowed to create a rift. “We will let Arshad clarify his stand because I cannot speak for him. I would like to believe that as an actor, he will not make such comments about someone who is so well-respected and loved,” says Dhillon, who is also expected to respond to Manchu’s letter.
The old: What Arshad Warsi said
“Prabhas, I am really sad, why was he… he was like a joker. Why? I want to see a Mad Max. I want to see Mel Gibson over there. Tumne usko kya bana diya yaar. Kyon karte ho aisa mujhe nahin samajh mein aata,” the actor told podcaster Samdish Bhatia in an interview recently.
THE NEW: COMMENTS OR NO?
Telugu actor Vishnu Manchu, President of the Telugu film body Movie Artiste Association, wrote a letter to Poonam Dhillon on Friday, excerpts from which read: “Mr Warsi’s comment has hurt the sentiments of many in the Telugu film community and among fans. It unfortunately has created unnecessary negativity among cinema lovers. We request that Mr Arshad Warsi be advised to refrain from making such remarks about fellow actors in the future. It is essential that we maintain the dignity and respect that each of our colleagues deserve.”
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On Saturday, reacting to Warsi’s comments, Kalki 2898AD director Nag Ashwin replied to a fan on X, urging them not to engage in “north-south or bolly vs tolly”. “Let’s not go backwards... eyes on the bigger picture.. United Indian Film Industry.. Arshad saab should have chosen his words better.. but it’s ok..sending buji toys 4 his kids..il work hard so tweets fdfs that prabhas was the best ever in k2 (sic),” he wrote on X.
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After Prabhas and Kalki fans stormed the comments of his posts on Instagram to troll and abuse the actor, Warsi disabled the comments on an Independence Day picture that he posted with his family.
Darshan Jariwala resigns as CINTAA VP; says ‘I know the truth about myself’
10:39 PM
Navya Kharbanda (HINDUSTAN TIMES; February 9, 2024)
Veteran actor Darshan Jariwala has opened up about resigning from the post of Vice President of the Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA) after a female journalist alleged that he impregnated and subsequently abandoned her. Speaking exclusively to us about the claims, Jariwala asserts, “I am fighting a legal case, I have filed for defamation. CINTAA had nothing to do with my personal case. I decided that I will step down from my post and fight my case alone. I would not like them to be unnecessarily tagged, just like I am.”
Denying the allegations made by the woman, who remains anonymous, the Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani (2009) actor emphasizes, “The allegations on the internet are rubbish. Let the truth come out. The attacks are becoming more and more virulent. I have not reacted on social media and have taken legal steps because that is the correct way to go about it.”
Expressing his concern over CINTAA’s involvement in the matter, he states, “They gave a clean chit to me in December [last year]. They might file for defamation if this escalates.”
Despite the controversy, the 65-year-old refuses to succumb to social media trials. “The negativity doesn’t affect me because I know the truth about myself. I will not join the kangaroo courts being conducted,” he affirms.
Going forward, Jariwala hopes that he can continue to contribute to CINTAA’s welfare. “Every three years, there is a new committee. Once I deal with the matter, I would definitely want to work for the welfare of the association,” he ends.
Taarak Mehta, Anupamaa controversy: Decoding actors' silence and the role of CINTAA, FWICE
10:03 AM
Many actors don’t lodge complaints to avoid ruffling feathers with makers, which regulatory bodies say leaves them with hardly any scope to take action
Syeda Eba Fatima (HINDUSTAN TIMES; June 19, 2023)
Of late, actors from TV shows Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah (TMKOC) and Anupamaa have spoken up about the toxic work culture and harassment on set. This raises a pertinent question: Why are such serious issues not spoken about despite the presence of regulatory bodies like Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA) and Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE)?
FWICE president Birendra Nath Tiwari says, “The organization can take strict action against the offender or stop the shoot temporarily, but we can’t do anything unless victims come out and register an official complaint. Actors don’t want to spoil their equation with the production houses. Hence, they don’t talk about it openly.”
NO TRUST IN CINTAA
Given that CINTAA is a union that largely comprises actors, many believe it’s highly unlikely that they’d take strict action. “Jo CINTAA mein baithe hain, unhe bhi toh kaam chahiye producers se. I’ve heard that CINTAA comes, takes money [from the producers] and ignores the matter,” says Control Room actor Nishant Singh Malkani, who recalls being told by CINTAA members to do what the producers were saying.
Actor Jennifer Mistry Bansiwal, who recently accused TMKOC producer Asit Kumarr Modi of sexual harassment, says, “Every time a CINTAA representative had to visit the set, which is usually a surprise visit, Asit would know about it beforehand and everything would be put into place. So, when we know that producers had their way of dealing with CINTAA, why would we go to them?”
CINTAA HITS BACK
CINTAA general secretary Amit Bahl says, “We have an outrage committee, a care committee and a dispute-settlement committee. The moment we get any complaint regarding abuse, we act instantly. CINTAA doesn’t charge a single penny for any case.”
On actors’ claims about CINTAA members taking bribe, Bahl adds, “We disaffiliated CINTAA from the federation six years ago, after we found out that there were corrupt people in the union.”
HERE’S A WAY OUT
While some actors stress on the need of a counsellor on set to tackle such issues, producer J D Majethia says that after the #MeToo movement, every production house was told to make a committee and immediately report any such mishap, not only regarding harassment, but also toxicity on the set. “But, in the absence of the committee, if any unpleasant incident happens and the producer isn’t taking any action, the victim should inform the channel and CINTAA,” he says.
WHY DO ACTORS STAY MUM?
Actor Monika Bhadoriya, who called out the production team of TMKOC, says she didn’t know there was a body that helps with such issues: “I thought CINTAA only helps with payment-related issues. Also, people keep quiet to not harm their careers.”
TMKOC actor Priya Ahuja feels going to CINTAA would mean “turning producers into your enemies”. Echoing similar thoughts, Malkani adds that actors choose to stay mum as they don’t want to be “tagged troublemakers”.
Mithilesh Chaturvedi dies of cardiac arrest at 67
8:09 AM
Godhooli Sharma (THE TIMES OF INDIA; August 5, 2022)
Lucknow: Actor Mithilesh Chaturvedi, who played key character roles in several films and web series, including the role of lawyer Ram Jethmalani in ‘Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story’, passed away in Mumbai on Thursday. He was 67.
The Lucknow-born actor suffered a cardiac arrest 10 days ago and was under treatment at Kokilaben Hospital.
Chaturvedi worked with the UP Registrar Firms and Societies in Lucknow, but quit the job to try his luck in Bollywood in the late 1990s. Starting his career with ‘Bhai Bhai’ in 1997, he made a mark with Ram Gopal Varma’s ‘Satya’. He went on to act in hits like ‘Koi Mil Gaya’, ‘Gadar: Ek Prem Katha’, ‘Krrish’ and ‘Bunty Aur Babli’. He was also associated with several theatre groups in Lucknow.
The news about his demise was broken by his son-in-law Ashish who posted a message on Facebook. Soon, condolences poured in from around the country with friends and colleagues describing his death as an “unbearable loss”.
Director Hansal Mehta, who worked with Chaturvedi in ‘Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story’, was among the first to mourn Chaturvedi. Actor Delnaaz Irani tweeted, “Sad to hear about the passing of Mithilesh Chaturvedi ji. Such an amazing actor with such great roles he portrayed. My deepest condolences to his family. ”
Writer-director Anees Bazmee said, “Really not able to take this in. Spoke to him a couple of days back and now I see this! Really sad to lose such a gem who was a delight to work and spend time with. My heart goes out to the family. May your soul rest in peace Mithilesh bhai.”
Theatre doyen and Chaturvedi’s friend Surya Kumar Kulshreshtra said, “He was always cheerful, but when it came to theatre, he was quite serious and lived the character given to him.”
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BOMBAY TIMES (August 5, 2022)
Mithilesh Chaturvedi, best known for his roles in films such as Gadar: Ek Prem Katha, Koi Mil Gaya, Krrish, Gulabo Sitabo and TV shows like Neeli Chatri Waale and Kayamath, among others, died on Thursday morning due to cardiac arrest.
Mithilesh was also seen in the show Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hai. His co-actor from the show, Rohitashv Gour said, “We got to know each other well while working on Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hai. It was a good experience working with him. Mithilesh had come to Mumbai from a small town and one could see that he had not for gotten his roots. He was still a person who would get emotional over little things. He would think from his heart. Woh apne dil se sochta tha, dimag se nahi...that was his best quality. Sometimes we used to tell him not to get so emotional and take every thing so seriously. I am glad we could work together on the show. He was a good soul.”
Hansal Mehta was one of the first from the film industry to pay tribute to the actor. “RIP Mithilesh ji”, the filmmaker, who collaborated with Chaturvedi on the series Scam 1992, posted on Instagram. — Inputs by Hasti Doshi
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HINDUSTAN TIMES (August 5, 2022)
Veteran film and theatre actor Mithilesh Chaturvedi, who has starred in films such as Satya (1998)and Koi Mil Gaya (2003), died on Thursday morning due to cardiac arrest, a family member said.
The 68-year-old suffered a cardiac arrest ten days ago and was admitted to Kokilaben Dhiruben Ambani hospital in Mumbai.
“He was admitted to the hospital for eight to ten days as he suffered a cardiac arrest. He had breathing issues and was undergoing treatment. He passed away [on Thursday] at 4am due to cardiac arrest,” said his son-in-law Ashish Chaturvedi.
The Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story fame actor has delivered some memorable performances in films such as Taal (1999), Fiza (2000), Asoka, Gadar: Ek Prem Katha (both 2001), Bunty Aur Babli (2005), Krrish (2006), Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani (2009), Ready (2011) and Gulabo Sitabo (2020).
Filmmaker Hansal Mehta was one of the first members from the film industry to pay tribute to the actor. “RIP Mithilesh ji”, the filmmaker, who collaborated with Chaturvedi for the web series Scam 1992, posted on his Instagram handle.
The official Twitter handle of Cine and TV Artistes Association (CINTAA) posted, “CINTAA expresses its condolences on the demise of Mithilesh Chaturvedi.”
Chaturvedi’s last rites were held on Thursday evening at a crematorium in Versova, Mumbai. The actor is survived by his wife, two daughters and a son.
NCPCR drafts guidelines for showbiz minors; No child artiste should be made to work for more than six hours
8:27 AM
Niharika Lal (BOMBAY TIMES; July 29, 2022)
The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has drafted new guidelines to protect child artistes in the showbiz industry. One of the major highlights of the draft guidelines is that no showbiz minor should work for more than 27 consecutive days in a year and over six hours in a day. The draft ‘Regulatory Guidelines for Child Participation in the Entertainment Industry’ will cover films, OTT, TV, reality shows and other fields where child artistes are involved.
‘NEED TO ADDRESS WORKING HOURS’
Priyank Kanoongo, Chairperson, NCPCR, says that they have received many complaints for TV serials and OTT platforms. He asks, “We have received a lot of complaints regarding portrayal of kids, but who will complain about the working hours of these kids? We need to address working hours and working conditions of showbiz minors. Hence, we need strict implementation of these guidelines. "
Apart from Priyank Kanoongo, director Soumendra Padhi and other experts from the industry are also part of this committee. One of the points in the guidelines also mentions that for kids to work in the entertainment sector, they will require producers to obtain permission from the District Magistrate. This is being suggested to ensure a safe environment on sets for child artistes.
Findings indicate that unfortunately there are also parents who own the earnings of their children and rather than acting in the best interest of children, they modify kids’ schedules to fit shooting schedules. It has often been noticed that parents quit their jobs to manage their kids’ careers full time. The committee will also have meetings with heads of production houses of all major mediums and studio heads. The draft guidelines of NCPCR has come up with a list of dos and don’ts for children in showbiz. Till July 31, these guidelines are out for public feedback.
‘DRAFT GUIDELINES AIM TO PROTECT SHOWBIZ MINORS FROM THEIR PARENTS AND PRODUCERS’
Vani Tripathi Tikoo who was among the members who drafted these guidelines says that the main objective of framing the guidelines is that child artistes are treated as kids. Vani says that working conditions on sets are often not children-friendly. She says, “We need to take immediate steps about the conditions in which child actors are working on sets. The new rules in the draft guideline include things like having a tutor, child counsellor during shooting, limited work hours and regular breaks among other requirements.”
Vani, who has also worked in several films and TV serials, has witnessed that children work till late hours and rarely get free time. She points out that it is the need of hour to take a look at how showbiz minors are working. She says, “The aim of the draft guidelines is to protect child artistes from exploitation by not just producers but parents as well. These guidelines have been drafted to catch up with the ever-increasing entertainment formats as we have more child artistes working in all the mediums. Besides, the guidelines are not just for guidance but we have included provision for punishment.”
‘DUE TO TELECAST ISSUES EIGHT HOURS TURN INTO 12 HOURS’
Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai actress Ashnoor Kaur’s (now 18) mother Avneet Kaur says, “It has been said that the working hours are eight hours, but due to telecast issues, they become 12 hours, so there should be a fix on the number of hours. Ashnoor was very young, around five years when she did Jhansi Ki Rani, so there were no issues. But when she did Patiala Babes, she had her board exams and it used to get tough when we used to get home around 11pm. She would insist that she had to finish her chapters and would sleep for around four hours. That was too less for a child. She has been a very bright student, so she scored well but I feel that there should be a rule on the working hours.”
She adds, “I would also like to share how the working environment is safe for children but they should be taught to work within their boundaries and understand what’s good and bad for them. As parents we do have to take permission from Cine And TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA) and become members so that our child can act in shows. They also have a list of regulations for child actors.”
‘IT WOULD BE HELPFUL IF MAKERS HAVE A TUTOR ON THE SET’
The new guidelines in India also mention that child artistes should be provided private tutors if they skip school. In foreign countries, this is an established norm. For instance, during the shoot of Stranger Things – as the cast majorly comprised kids – tutors were available for them so they could take lessons.
Kanoongo adds, “The guidelines have incorporated the amendments in child labour laws, Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 and the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. It has been over ten years since these guidelines were last issued in 2011.”
Aakriti, who is 12 years old now, had acted in Kullfi Kumarr Bajewala when she was eight. Her mother Dimple Sharma says, “Aakriti was in Class II when she acted in the TV show. We did not face many issues but we had to hire a tutor as she used to attend school just once or twice a week. In such cases, when the child is dividing time between acting and school, it would be nice if the makers have a tutor on the set, too. It could be a rule now, Kullfi… makers used to help us with such things that are important for studies. Otherwise, there is no pressure on the child and the working environment is good, my daughter is quite smart, so she used to catch up on studies very well.”
— Inputs by Tanvi Trivedi
After Shagufta Ali opens up about her financial woes, CINTAA offers monetary aid; seeks Salman Khan’s help
8:18 AM
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; July 7, 2021)
On Monday, news broke that TV actor Shagufta Ali has been facing a financial crunch, owing to lack of work and the rising cost of her medical treatment. As soon as word of her condition reached the Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA), the body sprang into action.
Amit Behl, senior joint secretary, CINTAA, reveals that while they have initiated the process of offering financial assistance, the body also intends to seek Salman Khan’s help. “Being the self-respecting individual that Shagufta is, she was initially reluctant to take our help, but we’ve convinced her. We’ll also reach out to Salman Khan’s Being Human foundation on this matter,” he says.
Nupur Alankar, care committee (mental and physical Health Department), CINTAA, adds, “As per the CINTAA constitution, there is a limited amount [that former members are eligible for]. We have offered her the sum, and will manage the rest through fundraisers.”
Ali has been part of many popular shows, including Saans and Bepannaah, in her 36-year career. The actor, whose health deteriorated after she was diagnosed with diabetes, says that she initially refrained from seeking help as she struggled over the past four years. “On the work front, I’d get many scripts, but the projects would fall through at the last minute. My sugar level shot up, and I am on insulin. The diabetes has affected my eyesight so much that every 40 days, I have to get scans done. Basis the report, the doctor decides whether I should be given an injection in my eyes or opt for laser.”
The actor, 54, took the struggles on the chin, believing that the tough phase will pass. She adds that Neena Gupta, Sumeet Raghavan and Sushant Singh lent her a helping hand during her difficult times. “Johny Lever and several people called me yesterday [after learning of my condition]. Now, I have to gather myself and start working again.”
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Kavita Awaasthi (HINDUSTAN TIMES; July 7, 2021)
The Coronavirus pandemic has led to work drying up, which meant no income flow for many artistes. Actor Shagufta Ali, unfortunately, is one of them and is in dire need of financial help. A popular face, she has been part of shows like Saans, Parampara and Junoon among others, and has been working since ’89. But due to her ill health, she hasn’t been able to work for the last four years. A cancer survivor, the actor had to sell her car and jewellery to makes ends meet.
“People close to me knew about my problems and the war I have been fighting. I have been a private person but my health issues and financial troubles have been many,” she says.
Right now, she needs help to pay her monthly bills and other expenses including treatment for diabetes and eyesight. Once better, she wants to start work. Cine & TV Artists Association (CINTAA) has reached out to her offering help. “I will accept their help but they, too, can’t do much beyond a point. I’m a self-made person and asking for help is my last resort,” she explains.
“This field is uncertain. Due to the pandemic, things are tough but five years ago, when I was active, the industry gave regular work. I haven’t acted in the last four years which has led to this tough situation,” she concludes.
Hrithik Roshan sent 10,000 masks within 24 hours, says Yuva Sena leader and NGO president Rahul N Kanal
8:21 AM
Hrithik Roshan donates masks to frontline workers through city NGO; offers to provide ration kits
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; June 15, 2021)
Hrithik Roshan has been continuously extending support in India’s fight against the Coronavirus pandemic. Yesterday, mid-day reported that he donated face masks to the frontline workers through the not-for-profit organisation, I Love Mumbai Foundation (Hrithik continues to help out, June 14). Sharing further details of his charitable act, Rahul N Kanal, Yuva Sena leader and president of the NGO, says that the star reached out to the organisation late last week.
“Within 24 hours of contacting us, he sent 10,000 masks from his [lifestyle brand] HRX, to be distributed among frontline workers and citizens. Besides congratulating us for our relief measures, Hrithik asked us to keep him informed about our initiatives as he wants to throw his weight behind them,” says Kanal.
This comes only a week after Roshan donated Rs 20 lakh to the Cine and TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA). Last month, he had donated USD 15,000 towards Help India Breathe fundraiser. “Hrithik has also asked us to inform him if people need dry ration kits,” adds Kanal.
Payment woes: Alter 90-day pay cycle, urge TV actors
8:12 AM
Despite demand to scrap it, the 90-day pay system remains in TV industry
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; June 14, 2021)
The Coronavirus pandemic had put a hold on shoots, similar to what happened in 2020. In such trying times, everyone needs money to sail through the crisis. However, many actors feel that the pay system on TV is adding to their financial woes.
Conventionally, 90-days has been the timeline most actors get their pay after. Since last year, many actors have been voicing their concern over this system, terming it unfeasible, especially in such uncertain times. So, did it lead to any course correction? The industry at large says it’s still the same.
Need Financial security
Actor Aishwarya Sakhuja, who is currently seen in the show Yeh Hai Chahatein says, “What happens is established actors put a clause in their contract in the very beginning. Most production houses have been kind to me. But for the rest, the 90-day pay period continues.”
Moreover, some production houses have requested actors to even cut down their pay. “The system is still the same; there has been no change. Even for me, they were asking if we can do some more cut in the payment. We are stepping out in the pandemic to shoot, on top of that, we are working with a cut, it doesn’t make sense,” says Debina Bonnerjee, adding that apart from insurance, actors don’t get any other add-on benefit.
Plight of producers
Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA) senior joint secretary and chairman, outreach committee, Amit Behl cites the trickle down effect as the reason for pay system still being the same. “Advertising revenues have dropped by 80%. The manufacturer delays payment to advertiser, it delays payment to broadcaster, it in turn delays for the producers and then to cast and crew,” he explains.
Sharing plight of producers, he adds, “Lead and semi-lead actors earn ₹16-17 lakhs per month, and if they want the payment immediately, how will they get it? Almost 90% producers have cleared the payments to smaller actors.”
According to J D Majethia, chairman, TV division of IFTPC, some producers have indeed brought the payment cycle down. “A few broadcasters tried to alter their policies and tried to pay producers. I would say it’s not been continued, as last year, the policy was designed to address the pandemic,” he says.
Speak up, say actors
Actors Sharad Malhotra and Kratika Sengar feel that the 90-day pay system needs to change. “The system needs to change by the people sitting above. The producers, channels need to give it a thought. I hope they do something,” says Malhotra.
Sengar, however, shares that every actor has a different contract. “It’s about the contract you make with the production house. I stand with those artists who get it after 90 days. But these artists need to speak up too,” Sengar concludes.
CINTAA urges leading cine bodies to include 5,000 background actors in film workers’ vaccination drive
8:14 AM
(From left) CINTAA secretary Amit Behl; Aditya Chopra
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; May 18, 2021)
Weeks after Yash Raj Films’ head honcho Aditya Chopra pledged to bear the inoculation expense of 30,000 film workers belonging to the Federation of Western India Cine Employees, the coordination committee of Cine and TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA) has noted that background actors should be included in the drive. Amit Behl, senior joint secretary, CINTAA, reveals that the body recently sent an e-mail to four unions — Producers’ Guild, Indian Film and Television Producers’ Council (IFTPC), Western India Film Producers’ Association (WIFPA) and Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA) — to this effect.
“We have also requested [television channels] and producers, including Aditya Chopra and [Salman Khan’s] studio, to [focus on] the actors as well. The number of [daily-wage] workers on a set is minuscule due to the bio-bubble; the bulk of the unit are the supporting cast. Actors are [vulnerable] as they can’t wear PPE suits or masks in front of the camera,” states Behl, adding that 5,000 artistes are part of CINTAA.
Confirming the mail’s receipt, T P Aggarwal, IMPPA president, says the inoculation plan hasn’t progressed further due to the shortage of vaccines in the country. “When we get the vaccines, CINTAA members will be inoculated too. That said, when IMPPA can pledge to pay for producers’ jabs, why can’t CINTAA dip into their funds instead of asking the producers?”
We will observe strict SOPs at shoots, says Film & TV industry
8:38 AM
Sujit Mahamulkar & Bella Jaisinghani (THE TIMES OF INDIA; April 5, 2021)
Mumbai: The entertainment industry will observe stringent Coronavirus standard operating procedures (SOPs) while filming movies and TV shows amid the partial lockdown beginning Monday. Industry representatives said they will monitor film shoots countrywide, enforce pandemic protocol on production houses and punish offenders.
On Sunday afternoon, CM Uddhav Thackeray called a virtual meeting with film and TV producers and appealed to them to cooperate with the state’s strictures. After the partial lockdown was announced, Ashoke Pandit, chief advisor of FWICE, said, “A virtual meeting of film associations will be held on Monday to devise strict SOPs for all shoots, not only in Mumbai, but across the country...We will levy heavy fines for violation. Strict action will be taken against production houses that fail to enforce masks and sanitisation.”
Amit Behl, senior joint secretary, CINTAA, said they would revert to August-September 2020 SOPs. “We will have masks, sanitisers, paramedics on set, and devise a social media awareness drive about prevention and vaccination.”
Senior actors welcome Bombay High Court's judgement
8:21 AM
The Bombay High Court quashed the government’s decision to exclude cast and crew members above 65 from shooting. Those concerned welcome the judgement
Kunal Guha (MUMBAI MIRROR; August 8, 2020)
In a relief for senior actors and technicians from film, TV and digital, the Bombay High Court on Friday quashed the Maharashtra Government’s GR that prohibited those over 65 years from shooting in light of the Covid-19 pandemic. This is following actor Pramod Pandey’s petition in the Bombay High Court challenging the GR.
The 69-year-old actor had been rejected from a TV show on the grounds of his age recently. “When the shoots began post lockdown, and only those above 65 were denied work, I naturally felt angry and wanted to do something about it,” says Pandey, who reached out to friends from his hometown Agra for help, but to cover the legal fees and other expenses, he had to part with a family heirloom: his late father’s gold ring. “This judgement has come as a sanjeevanibooti for many actors, lightsmen, junior artists and spot boys who fell in this age group and were compelled to sit at home.”
Amit Behl, senior joint secretary and chairperson - Outreach Committee, CINTAA, welcomed the judgement but regretted the predicament of those who were dropped from projects in the interim period. “Our senior members can now heave a sigh of relief and work peacefully. But those who have lost their jobs or have been replaced in the time it took for this order to come through, is an unfortunate collateral damage,” says Behl.
Actor Kanwaljit Singh, who was dropped from a forthcoming web series on account of his age, is hopeful and excited by the judgement. “Obviously, we are very happy to hear this news. It’s a pity that some of us lost out on some roles but that’s alright, and we’re looking forward to doing some good work now,” says Singh, who is to resume shooting for a Nikkhil Advani film on August 23, where he has two days of shoot pending. “We are delighted that it’s come in our favour,” adds the 69-year-old who was replaced by a younger actor in a web series recently. “They waited for me for too long, hoping the age rule would get amended but finally, I just told them to carry on with someone younger.”
Prithvi Zutshi is another actor who had been informed by the makers of the TV show Pyaar Ki Luka Chuppi that his character’s track is going to be terminated as they had to resume shooting and couldn’t wait for a GR amendment to come through. “I was also replaced from a web series that was to commence in March, but began only when shoots started,” says Zutshi, adding, “But this judgement is great news, and I am looking forward to returning to the sets.”
Actress Farida Dadi, 67, who was to commence shooting for the third season of a web series, but hadn’t heard from the production, is relieved too. “The government has finally realised that you can’t force anyone to retire,” says Dadi. “We have loans and this ban was taking a toll on my mind. Thankfully, the industry has always respected elders and I am sure actors and studios will take all possible precautions going forward.”
Virendra Saxena, who has a few days of shoot remaining for the Salman Khan-starrer Radhe and a series among his forthcoming projects welcomes the judgement. “Every film needs senior actors, and by forcing us to stay at home, we were being made to feel old.” says Saxena, who is to resume shooting for a web series and a movie.
Apart from the threat of losing out on assignments, some actors were put out of commission since their productions were indefinitely stalled by the Coronavirus lockdown. “I am thrilled because this means that one can now work but finding work is another thing,” says Suhasini Mulay, who refused a project recently and the two web shows that she was slated to shoot have been postponed to November and January. “It’s stupendous that Pramod Pandey has fought for the senior artists community instead of just sitting and moaning like some,” adds Mulay.
Even T P Aggarwal, president, IMPPA, is ecstatic by the judgement. “So many actors, producers and technicians were grounded. Now thousands from the industry will be gainfully employed again.”
I am a senior citizen and I live alone, I will not let go of my hard earned money-Sarita Joshi
8:37 AM
The veteran actress is upset about non-payment of dues by the makers of Hamari Bahu Silk
Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; July 22, 2020)
Actors of the TV show, Hamari Bahu Silk, continue to wait for their dues. After the lead cast, veteran actress Sarita Joshi, who was conferred the Padma Shri this year, and has played an important role on the show, has now spoken about non-payment of dues.
Joshi said, “I am a senior citizen and I live alone. I have been working since I was eight years old, but that does not mean that I will let go of my hard-earned money. It has been over seven months now and despite CINTAA (Cine And TV Artistes' Association) and the producers’ guild taking up our issue, there has been no solution. Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, I have decided not to work for a few months, but I need the money to continue with my daily life.”
She added, “I have never considered my age a reason to slow down. In the contract, it is mentioned 10 hours, but sometimes I used to work 12-15 hours because they had to finish their episodes. This has never happened to me in the past and therefore, I strongly urge the associations and the channel to look into the matter.”
Shoots to resume, but elaborate costume dramas must reimagine scale
8:48 AM
Mohua Das (THE TIMES OF INDIA; June 26, 2020)
Mumbai: Film and television bodies finally settled their long-pending issues on Thursday and decided to resume shooting with immediate effect after Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), Cine And TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA) and Indian Film and TV Producers’ Council (IFTPC) agreed to provide members two sets of Coronavirus insurance — a death cover of Rs 25 lakh and a hospitalization cover of Rs 2 lakh — as well as a reduction in the credit cycle for TV cast and crew from 90 days to 30 days for at least the first three months.
Even as cameras start rolling again with a scaled-down cast and crew and preventive measures, not everyone might be able to ride the wave, especially productions too big to accommodate massive staff, elaborate sets, and complex costumes and makeup.
After all, turbaning up to play Razia Sultan or twirling up Peshwa Bajirao’s moustache is not a one-person job. Period dramas are called costume dramas for a reason. When it comes to mythologies and historical dramas, the fold in a garment, details in the eye of a goddess or the shape of a scar are just as important as the storytelling.
The bag of tricks that makeup and hair artistes step into the green room with, to interpret a period through the look of each character, will now have to be reimagined given the social distancing norms laid down by the culture ministry that recommend actors do their own makeup and hair as well as trials and fittings at home.
Other than mythology, the small screen is flooded with fantasy and supernatural shows, most of which rely on latex, rubber, blood and prosthetics and can be nearly impossible to DIY under the current safety guidelines. “Costume dramas will take at least two or three months more to return to the floors since it is a complex affair. One-fourth of a day is invested in just getting a character ready,” says Sunjoy Wadhwa, founder, Sphereorigins, which made the historical drama Peshwa Bajirao.
Grand set constructions and a cast of hundred extras can be a challenge too in the wake of migrant exodus.
“Forty per cent of our junior artistes and second line of workers— lightmen, spotboys, makeup and set design artistes—who comprise the workforce for epics and historical sagas have gone to their hometowns,” said Ashoke Pandit, president of Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association.
But there’s always the trusted spectrum of computer-aided visual methods to fall back on. “Costume dramas use panoramic views. So, it is possible to widen the camera lens and shoot against a green screen for special effects,” says Wadhwa. Contiloe Pictures that pioneered historical and mythological shows on Indian TV, including 21 Sarfarosh: Saragarhi 1897, Jhansi ki Rani, Mahayoddha Rama and Vighnaharta Ganesh, is leaning on tech solutions to create crowds and geographies. “The situation gives us an impetus to innovate and explore a new language in the genre,” says Abhimanyu Singh, founder, Contiloe.
While television channels had once taken a gamble with these shows with budgets far higher than regular soaps, it may not pay off as it did in the past with advertising revenues on a downslide and broadcasters asking for budget cuts. “Technology is expensive and will push costs up but it’s about survival. We will have to start on a small scale, not get ambitious about grandeur,” says Dharmesh Shah, an old hand at directing period dramas like Shakuntala, Veer Shivaji, and Siya Ke Raam. “Shooting in studio sets outside city limits would help isolate a unit and reduce transmission risk.”
Small screen’s big leap of faith: Shooting for some TV shows has resumed, with efforts underway to iron out glitches
8:26 AM
Prashant Singh and Shreya Mukherjee (HINDUSTAN TIMES; June 25, 2020)
Soon after the Maharashtra government gave the nod for TV shows to resume shoots and issued guidelines for the same post the Coronavirus lockdown, makers and channels started prepping to return to work. In fact, two Hindi shows — Pyar Ki Luka Chuppi and Shakti - Astitva Ke Ehsaas Ki — resumed shooting on June 23. However, before others could follow suit, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) and Cine And TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA) halted shoots stating certain guidelines weren’t met, including working hours, insurance cover etc. But after a meeting between FWICE, CINTAA and Indian Film & Television Producers’ Council (IFTPC) on Wednesday, shoots will now resume.
Pawan Kumar, producer-director of both these shows, says, “We’re adhering to guidelines. If there are any changes needed, we’ll try and incorporate. We can’t stop shooting because so many people right now need the job.” Kumar adds shooting for Santoshi Maa - Sunayein Vrat Kathayein and Jag Janani Maa Vaishno Devi - Kahani Mata Rani Ki and two upcoming shows will resume shortly and that all six are being shot in Ramdev studio, Naigaon. “The entire set and nearby areas are being sanitised every 30 minutes. Everyone is wearing masks, face shields except the actors. The cast and crew are staying in Naigaon,” he says.Similarly, the cast and crew of Devi Aadi Parashakti reached Umbergaon, Gujarat, where they were quarantined. “Our two weeks got over on June 23 and we’ll start when everyone’s ready. We’re in a complete green zone and we’re taking extra precautions. Siddharth and Rahul (Kumar Tewary; producers of the show) are ensuring safety,” says actor Tarun Khanna.
J D Majethia, actor-producer and chairman (TV & web), IFTPC, shares they’ve received permissions from locations in and around Mumbai — Film City Chitra Nagari, Mira Road, Thane, Palghar etc. Hence, shooting for other shows may start from Thursday once they sort out insurance issues. “For now, we’ll avoid marriage and party scenes. In the long run, we’ll restructure the industry’s working pattern,” he says.Meanwhile actor Rashami Desai might shoot for the finale of Naagin 4 on June 26. Next in line to resume could be Kumkum Bhagya. In fact, most are eager to resume shooting, but with caution. While actor Varun Badola is ready to shoot for Mere Dad ki Dulhan, he’s concerned as he lives with his old parents. “So, I just want everything in place on the sets. One person can infect anyone,” he says.
Echoing the concern, Amit Behl, joint secretary and chairperson, outreach committee, CINTAA, shares, “Shooting started in West Bengal, but they had to stop as things went wrong. It was the same in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Most studios in Maharashtra are in containment zones, a majority of studio floors are very cramped. So social distancing may pose a challenge.”However, Tanusri Dasgupta, executive vice-president, Balaji Telefilms, confirms shooting of all their shows would start together and “we’ve already done mock drills to ensure there are no complications”. Others too contend “things have already been sorted” with insurance companies. They feel the idea “is to not just keep the cast and crew healthy but confident”. “And it’s very important because that will directly impact productivity and quality of work,” says Sumeet Mittal, producer of Barrister Babu and Shubharambh, which are expected to resume shooting today. “My crew for both shows will stay on the sets so there is minimal interaction with the outside world,” he says.
Nine TV shoots slated to begin today stand cancelled
8:29 AM
Hiren Kotwani (MUMBAI MIRROR; June 23, 2020)
It has been three weeks since the state government issued General Resolution for resumption of shoots in Mumbai. As many as nine shoots, including Kumkum Bhagya (right), Kundali Bhagya (above), Tujhse Hai Raabta, Qurbaan Hua, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa L’il Champs and Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Punjabi, were to resume today. But because there is still no clarity on key issues like sanitisation, safety, payment schedule, insurance and shift timings, they have been called off. CINTAA (Cine and Television Artistes Association) and FWICE (Federation of Western India Cine Employees) had an online meeting on Monday and issued a statement to the effect. Work has been at a standstill since March 19 and the TV fraternity was hopeful about getting back to work after the government-issued Standard Operation Procedures (SOPs).
Several actors received ‘Declaration Forms’, a copy of which is with Mirror, from their producers. However, CINTAA issued a notification to its members, not to sign up. Amit Behl, senior joint secretary and chairperson, CINTAA, said, “If I’m not going to shoot until these concerns are addressed, how can I expect my association members to resume work?”Aayam Mehta (left), an actor in Qurbaan Hua, informs that the soap kicked off on February 25. After 19 episodes, it stopped, following the Coronavirus lockdown. Pointing out that discussions between actors, producers’ associations and broadcasters have been on for a while, he reasons that 80 per cent of the unit are daily wage earners and their interests need to be taken into consideration. “As soon as certain issues are resolved, we will start shooting. But till then, we will have to wait a little longer,” he says.
Amir Jaffar, producer of Tujhse Hai Raabta and Qurbaan Hua, added that as of now, TV shoots are scheduled to resume from June 25, subject to all state-mandated SOPs being adhered to, including insurance cover for the cast and crew.
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A day before TV shows were to go on floors, FWICE, CINTAA call off shoot; claim IFTPC has failed to meet insurance demands
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; June 23, 2020)
With the managing director of Maharashtra Film, Theatre and Cultural Development Corporation (Film City) having granted approval last week, the shoot of several television shows — including Kumkum Bhagya, Kundali Bhagya, Guddan Tumse Na Ho Payega and Sa Re Ga Ma L'il Champs — was to begin today. However, only 24 hours before the cameras were to roll again — thus marking the end of the three-month-plus industry shutdown — the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) and Cine And TV Artistes' Association (CINTAA) called off the shoots. Their bone of contention was that the Indian Film & TV Producers' Council (IFTPC) had not met their demands of working in eight-hour shifts and providing insurance cover of Rs 50 lakh for workers.
Birendra Nath Tiwari, president, FWICE, reveals that these conditions had been put on the table in May. "Some of our demands, including the settlement of dues and timely payment, have not been met by the IFTPC. They announced Rs 10 lakh insurance cover instead of Rs 50 lakh. So, the FWICE and CINTAA jointly decided that technicians and artistes will not report to work."
Amit Behl, joint secretary and chairperson, outreach committee, CINTAA, indicates that the IFTPC declared that producers can resume shoots between June 23 and June 25, without consulting other cine bodies. "After we discussed our concerns with the IFTPC and broadcasters in a meeting last week, we were waiting to hear from them. The broadcasters had asked for discounts citing lack of advertising revenue, but the budget cuts were not discussed at length. There was no clarity on the COVID cover. [Amid all this] the IFTPC and the broadcasters took the call of resuming work."
J D Majethia, president, TV wing, IFTPC, conceded that the shoots wouldn't take place on Tuesday. "We will decide the insurance cover [soon] and the shoots will begin after that. Working in eight-hour shifts is not possible. The business is built on working 12 hours a day. The producers will take care of every aspect — from monitoring temperature to having medical aid."
No shooting to take place without insurance
8:45 AM
Actor, producer, broadcaster associations in agreement
Hiren Kotwani (MUMBAI MIRROR; June 20, 2020)
Ever since Maharashtra government issued a General Resolution on May 31, allowing shoots in the state, various film and television bodies have been impatient to get back into action. But work won’t begin until the matter of insurance is resolved. Representatives of the Cine and Television Artistes Association (CINTAA), Indian Broadcasters Federation (IBF) and Indian Film and Television Producers Council (IFTPC) agreed on this during a virtual meeting recently.
Mirror had reported earlier (June 17) that shooting of TV and web shows has begun in Kolkata with Rs 25 lakh insurance cover and if anyone contracts Coronavirus, the West Bengal government would bear the cost of the treatment. Amit Behl, senior joint secretary and chairperson, CINTAA, informed that while talks with insurance companies are on, the onus finally lies with the broadcasters. “For now, I can only say that the figure is bigger than Kolkata’s Rs 25 lakh and that there will be a uniform cover for the cast and crew,” he said.
Given that advertising revenue on TV has taken a hit, artistes and technicians will be asked to take a 15-35 per cent pay cut depending on their slab. Also, while shoots are being planned for the month-end, Amit says that within Mumbai, only Film City has started accepting applications. “The officials will assess the sets and give permissions based on urgency and if they are satisfied with the safety norms. The producers who have sets standing outside the city will apply to the respective District Collectors for permission to resume shoots,” he shares.
The reduction of the payment window of 90 days was also addressed. “The broadcasters have promised to discuss with their advertisers and also internally how they can reduce this window,” he added, saying perpetual defaulters will be blacklisted.
Sushant Singh steps down from CINTAA post, says "better to have a new leader with fresh ideas"
8:32 AM
Actor Sushant Singh steps down from the post of CINTAA general secretary after a five-year tenure
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; June 19, 2020)
Actor Sushant Singh, who served as the general secretary of the Cine & TV Artistes Association (CINTAA) for the past five years, has stepped down from his post. The actor believes the move is necessary for his growth as well as that of the organisation.
"I had tendered my resignation on June 7. On Wednesday, the committee accepted it, thus formalising my [exit]. I had joined CINTAA on May 1, 2015. I have played my part as I led the organisation to the best of my abilities in these five years. I have dedicated a long time to it. Going forward, I don't see any new ideas coming from my end. It is better for the organisation to have a new leader; s/he can bring fresh ideas to the table and implement changes," reasons Singh, whose tenure officially came to an end last month. However, the actor continued in the post as the body had postponed the election due to the lockdown.
Though CINTAA provided financial assistance and distributed food kits among its members during the lockdown, a section of the cine body had alleged that it had received little help. "We are a large organisation and irrespective of who is leading it, it is not possible to keep every member satisfied. Complaints will arise, and it is the association's duty to address them. My resignation has nothing to do with the complaints," asserts Singh.
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