Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Sep 14: Actress and CINTAA member Kunickaa Sadanand has raised concerns over long working hours in the entertainment industry, saying artistes often do not receive additional payment when shoots extend beyond their scheduled hours.

“There are long working hours. It shifts from 10-12 hours. And if there are extra hours, then there is no extra money,” she told reporters.

Kunickaa compared the situation with that of technicians, saying they are compensated when required to work an additional shift.

“So the body of a technician, whether it's a light man, a sound man or whatever, they get their money. If there is an extra shift, they get paid. Somehow, artists are treated stepmother-like,” she said.

She stressed that the disparity needs to be addressed and artistes should also be compensated when they are required to work beyond their agreed working hours.

Her remarks come amid the recent CINTAA elections, in which actress Upasana Singh emerged victorious.

Kunickaa had earlier questioned CINTAA members Poonam Dhillon and Padmini Kolhapure over their decision to continue holding positions in the association despite fresh elections being conducted.

She said an association position should be about serving artistes rather than holding on to power.

Speaking exclusively to IANS on the sidelines of the CINTAA elections, Kunickaa was asked about the ongoing dispute and why Poonam and Padmini were seemingly still not letting go of their positions.

She initially said the question should be directed to them.

“I don't know, you will have to ask them,” she said.

Speaking about her own long association with CINTAA and what members expect from the organisation, Kunickaa questioned the purpose of holding on to a position.

“I have been a member for so long, I have already been in the committee once. Very early. I met Dara Singh. You came there to give service, but it looks like an ego issue now, what else could it be?” she said.