Karachi (The COW News Digital) Pakistani actress Sehar Hashmi has spoken out against what she described as unprofessional behaviour by television producers, highlighting delays in payments to artists and raising concerns about working conditions in the entertainment industry.
The actress addressed the issue through an Instagram Story, drawing attention to what she sees as a double standard in how professionalism is judged between artists and production teams.
Hashmi pointed out that artists can be labelled unprofessional if they arrive a day late, while delays in their payments lasting several months are often dismissed as accounting issues.
Her remarks have sparked renewed discussion about artists’ rights, timely compensation and professional responsibilities within Pakistan’s television drama industry.
Hashmi began her acting career with the drama serial Zulm and has established herself as a recognisable face on television over the past two to three years. She gained considerable attention following her performance in Shedai, while her portrayal of Shehar Bano in Zanjeerain further increased her popularity among viewers.
The actress is now preparing to appear in the upcoming drama Dar-e-Nijat, in which she will reportedly portray a younger version of the character Khushbakht.
Her recent comments have brought attention to a broader issue affecting performers and other professionals working in television production: the importance of clear payment schedules and adherence to agreed contractual terms.
For artists who depend on acting assignments as a source of income, delayed payments can create financial uncertainty and make it difficult to manage professional and personal commitments. Hashmi’s statement highlights the frustration that can arise when artists are expected to meet strict deadlines while their own financial obligations are not addressed promptly.
The issue also raises questions about accountability and communication between performers, production houses and producers. Timely payments and transparent financial arrangements are important elements of a professional working relationship, particularly in an industry where multiple projects and contractual commitments often overlap.
Although Hashmi’s comments have drawn attention to the issue, no specific producer or production company was identified in the information available about her statement. The extent of the problem across the industry has also not been independently established.
Nevertheless, her remarks have added to the conversation about fair treatment and professional standards in Pakistan’s entertainment sector. The discussion centres on the expectation that all parties involved in a production should fulfil their responsibilities, including meeting agreed payment deadlines.
As Hashmi continues her television career, her comments have placed the issue of artists’ compensation back in the spotlight, highlighting the need for greater transparency and professionalism in the drama industry.
