Pakistani filmmaker Sarmad Khoosat has raised concerns about unpaid royalties after his popular television drama Humsafar secured a Spanish-language release.
The announcement sparked fresh debate about fair payments for actors, directors, and other entertainment industry professionals.
Sarmad Khoosat Questions Lack of Royalties
On Tuesday, Khoosat shared HUM TV’s announcement about the drama’s upcoming Spanish version on Instagram.
He expressed disappointment over the absence of royalty payments for artists whose work continues generating revenue.
His reaction highlighted a longstanding issue within Pakistan’s entertainment industry.
Why Do Pakistani Artists Struggle to Receive Royalties?
Royalties provide payments to creative professionals when television shows receive repeat broadcasts or new releases.
Such arrangements exist in several international entertainment markets.
However, Pakistan’s television industry largely abandoned its previous royalty system during the 1990s.
At that time, several actors accepted higher salaries from Pakistan Television instead of continued royalty payments.
The decision later influenced payment practices across private television channels.
Mahira Khan Also Demands Fair Payments
Earlier, actress Mahira Khan, who starred in Humsafar, supported royalty payments during promotional activities in March.
She explained that established celebrities might manage without additional income.
However, junior artists and production workers often struggle financially.
The issue gained national attention in 2021 when late actress Naila Jaffery discussed her financial difficulties during cancer treatment.
She highlighted how regular royalty payments could support struggling performers.
The upcoming Spanish release reflects the growing international reach of Pakistani dramas.
However, Khoosat’s remarks have renewed questions about whether creators receive fair financial rewards from their successful productions.
