Bollywood workers are facing sharp income decline during industry slowdown: survey

A recent Top India survey has found that many workers in the Hindi film industry are facing severe financial strain, with several reporting income drops of 50 to 60 per cent due to reduced work opportunities and delayed payments.

The survey, based on conversations with more than 1,000 people from the entertainment industry, points to a growing slowdown affecting workers behind the scenes far more than top stars.

Assistant directors, makeup artists, editors, lightmen, camera operators, production assistants, spot staff, character actors, and gym trainers associated with actors were among those identified as facing financial difficulties. Equipment suppliers, transport providers, and camera rental companies are also reportedly seeing fewer opportunities.

Many respondents said projects have become less frequent and that available work often comes with lower pay than in previous years. Since much of the entertainment industry operates on freelance and project-based employment, delays in film and show productions are affecting hundreds of workers connected to each project.

Industry insiders cited tighter production budgets, cautious spending by OTT platforms, and delays in approving new projects as major reasons for the slowdown.

The impact is being felt strongly in Mumbai, where living costs remain high. Many workers living near production hubs such as Andheri, Juhu, and Bandra are reportedly paying rents of up to Rs 50,000 a month for modest apartments.

According to the survey, some workers are relying on savings, borrowing money from friends and relatives, or taking temporary side jobs to manage expenses. Others have reportedly left Mumbai and returned to their hometowns after struggling to find steady work.

Despite the challenges, some industry professionals remain hopeful that increased production activity in the coming months could improve conditions.