Huma Qureshi addresses pay disparity in OTT, despite 'Maharani's' success

Huma Qureshi, recognized for her compelling portrayal of Rani Bharti in the acclaimed series ‘Maharani’, recently discussed the evolving landscape of digital entertainment and the opportunities it has presented for actors. However, she also brought attention to the persistent issue of unequal pay within the industry. Qureshi pointed out that despite the widespread popularity of ‘Maharani’, which she claims is among the most-watched shows, she still experiences a significant pay gap compared to her male colleagues, some of whom reportedly earn as much as ₹45 crore.

Leading a Hit Show, Yet Facing Unequal Compensation
In a conversation with India Today, Huma Qureshi emphasized the immense viewership and love that Maharani has garnered. Despite headlining the series as the central protagonist driving its narrative, she candidly revealed that her compensation does not align with the substantial earnings of male actors in comparable leading roles within the OTT space. She expressed her disappointment that even when a female actor is instrumental in the success of a series, male actors continue to command considerably higher salaries.

Questioning the Justification for the Significant Pay Gap
Referring to prevalent discussions within the industry regarding male stars receiving exorbitant fees, sometimes as high as ₹45 crores, for their work in OTT projects, Qureshi questioned the rationale behind such a substantial disparity in pay. When directly asked about the persistent pay gap in the industry, Huma Qureshi acknowledged the absence of any clear justification, stating, "It’s just the way it is." Nevertheless, she remains optimistic that ongoing conversations and increased awareness surrounding the issue could potentially lead to positive change in the future.

Appreciation for OTT Opportunities and Concerns About Repetitive Content
Qureshi acknowledged the positive impact of streaming platforms in creating avenues for talented actors like Jaideep Ahlawat, Shefali Shah, and herself, who might not have received similar opportunities in traditional cinema. However, she also voiced a concern regarding a growing sense of repetition in OTT content, stressing the need for innovation in storytelling to maintain the platform's dynamism and impact.

Upcoming Season of ‘Maharani’
On the professional front, Huma Qureshi is set to reprise her role as Rani Bharti in the highly anticipated fourth season of Maharani. The series, which has enjoyed considerable success across its previous three seasons, delves into the intricate socio-political dynamics of Bihar, drawing inspiration from real-life events to enhance the narrative's depth and authenticity.