We are all suffering together

The strike between the producers, workers and the channel guys is upsetting because the audience is suffering; and it’s not a great thing for the industry to be at a halt like this.
The break that we got didn’t happen in good taste. But we (actors) can make the best out of such situations because we can go for a vacation and celebrate. Even without work, we can survive happily for a few months. But the labourers cannot because they live on their monthly wages. For them, it’s a hand to mouth situation. Even we, for that matter are sandwiched between the producers, workers and broadcasters because of their demands.

The nature of my work is such that it’s after nine years that I’m getting this kind of chutti. My serial Kumkum has been on air for seven years now. Even if I want three days off for New Years’, I have to work day and night before that to complete my bit.

There are no vacations, no sick leaves in this profession. The tension the industry is going through is there at the back of our minds.

Still, I utilised this long break to  catch up with my friends (who were busy working) since everyone was free. I went to Goa and had a ball. I also went home to Jaipur around Diwali to be with my family. The strike coincided with my stay and I got a few days more than usual. When I got back, we shot for four or five days and then the strike was called again. Even on Thursday, I was called to shoot but then I got a call back saying the shoot has been cancelled.

Right now, I’m scared of getting used to a break. I hope I reach on time on the sets whenever we are called to shoot again. Nonetheless, I wouldn’t mind a longer chutti because I got it after a very long time. But it’s not good for the audience as they get to see only the repeat telecasts of shows. We are at a sad stage!

Juhi Parmar is a television actor. She spoke to Chhaya Toshniwal