(Web Desk) Famous actress Saheefa Jabbar Khattak says that there is not enough money in Pakistani dramas to run the kitchen of the house.
To the host’s question, actress Saheefa Jabbar said that I belong to a Pathan family, but despite this, our family does not believe in any coercion regarding education and marriage.
According to Sahifah Jabbar Khattak, I was good at studies, especially maths and accounting, but never thought of entering showbiz. A few days ago I got a call for an audition for acting and I got selected.
Regarding the income of showbiz, Sahifa Jabbar Khattak said that there is not enough money in our dramas to run the kitchen. Then this compensation is paid to the actors in installments.
Saheefa Jabbar added that if I have to depend only on dramas, my kitchen cannot run, this is possible only when I do 4 projects in a year, go to daily shoots, have income from social media too, then my The kitchen can run.
– How crucial is social media for actors in Pakistan in terms of financial stability?
Interview with Saheefa Jabbar Khattak: A Glimpse into the Financial realities of Pakistani Dramas
Editor (Time.news): Thank you for joining us today, Saheefa. You’ve made quite a name for yourself in the Pakistani entertainment industry, but you recently mentioned that there isn’t enough money in Pakistani dramas to sustain a household. can you elaborate on this?
Saheefa Jabbar Khattak: Thank you for having me. Yes,the financial aspect of working in Pakistani dramas is indeed challenging. The compensation we receive is often not sufficient to cover basic living expenses. Most actors, including myself, find that we need to take on multiple projects and additional sources of income, such as social media collaborations, to make ends meet.
editor: That’s quite revealing. You mentioned that the payment for dramas is often received in installments. How does this impact your financial planning as an actress?
Saheefa Jabbar Khattak: It can be quite complicated. When payments come in installments, it makes it arduous to budget effectively. I have to think strategically about my finances and often plan for longer timelines between projects. If I relied solely on drama roles, I honestly couldn’t sustain my household, which is why I look for opportunities to diversify my income.
Editor: interesting insight. You come from a Pathan family that values education and personal choice.How did your background influence your decision to enter the entertainment industry?
Saheefa Jabbar Khattak: My family has always prioritized education and personal freedom, which allowed me to explore diffrent career paths. I excelled in subjects like math and accounting and had no initial plans to enter showbiz. Though, when the prospect arose through an audition call, I decided to give it a try. It was a leap of faith that has paid off in manny ways, but it also highlighted the financial hurdles of this industry.
Editor: Given your experience, what advice would you give to aspiring actors in Pakistan who might be drawn to showbiz?
Saheefa Jabbar Khattak: My advice would be to have a backup plan. The glamour of the entertainment industry can frequently enough overshadow its realities, including financial instability. Pursuing education and skills in parallel can provide security, as many actors face a turbulent job market. Also, diversifying income streams is crucial—consider engagement through social media or other side projects.
Editor: You highlighted the importance of diversification. Could you elaborate on how social media plays a role in your income?
Saheefa Jabbar Khattak: Absolutely! Social media has become a powerful platform for actors. It allows us to connect with fans and brands alike, providing additional income through sponsorships, promotions, and collaborations.With the rise of influencer culture, it’s essential for actors in our industry to leverage these platforms effectively while staying authentic.
Editor: It sounds like a balancing act. As someone who has navigated both drama and social media, what do you envision for the future of the entertainment industry in Pakistan?
Saheefa Jabbar Khattak: I believe there’s a lot of potential for growth, but it requires a shift in how we value and compensate talent. The industry needs to recognize the hard work that goes into productions and ensure fair remuneration. Additionally, embracing digital platforms could create more opportunities and avenues for artists to thrive.
Editor: Thank you, Saheefa, for these valuable insights into the realities of being an actress in Pakistan. Your perspective not only illuminates the financial challenges but also offers practical advice for those looking to follow in your footsteps.
Saheefa Jabbar Khattak: Thank you for having me. I hope my experiences can inspire and guide others in navigating their own journeys in the showbiz world.