In a candid interview with Jist, filmmaker Varun Grover shed light on a pressing issue within Bollywood: the underappreciation and exploitation of writers. Grover, known for his acclaimed work on films like Masaan and web series such as Sacred Games, has raised concerns about how writers—both newcomers and veterans—are often sidelined and deprived of the recognition they deserve. His comments highlight a systemic issue that he hopes will change in the near future.
The Exploitation of Writers
A Candid Revelation
Varun Grover opened up about the exploitation faced by writers in Bollywood, drawing from a recent experience involving a close friend. According to Grover, this friend, a well-known comedian, was hired by a prominent filmmaker known for his middle-of-the-road cinema. Despite his stature and reputation, the filmmaker reportedly demanded that the writer handle both dialogues and screenplay for a fraction of the appropriate fee. Initially paid ₹50,000, the payment was increased to ₹3 lakh only after negotiations, which is still below industry standards as set by the Screenwriters’ Association.
The Legal Discrepancy
Grover emphasized that such practices are not only unethical but also illegal according to the Screenwriters’ Association’s guidelines. These laws stipulate that writers should be paid at least ₹12 lakh for dialogues alone and around ₹20 lakh for both dialogues and screenplay. By paying less, filmmakers are not only exploiting writers but also violating industry norms. Grover’s account underscores a broader issue within Bollywood, where the contributions of writers are often undervalued.
The Silent Erasure of Names
Omission from Promotional Material
A significant aspect of the exploitation issue is the frequent omission of writers’ names from film credits and promotional material. Grover pointed out that while accountants and other staff often receive recognition, writers are left out. This practice extends beyond newcomers to seasoned veterans such as Gulzar and Javed Akhtar, who have faced similar disregard. For instance, Irshad Kamil’s name was not included on the CD of the acclaimed album Rockstar, and even prominent works by Gulzar and Akhtar are sometimes not credited properly on popular music channels.
The Impact on Veteran Writers
The lack of recognition is particularly disheartening for veteran writers who have made significant contributions to Indian cinema. Grover highlighted that despite their immense influence and the impact of their work, these writers are often relegated to the background. This issue reflects a broader trend of undervaluing creative contributions in the industry, where the spotlight tends to shine more on actors and directors.
Varun Grover’s Journey and Advocacy
From Masaan to All India Rank
Varun Grover’s own career has been marked by notable achievements. His screenplay for Masaan, released in 2015, received widespread acclaim and brought attention to his writing prowess. The film, starring Richa Chadha, Vicky Kaushal, and Shweta Tripathi, marked Neeraj Ghaywan’s directorial debut and was praised for its poignant storytelling. Grover also contributed to the success of Sacred Games, a landmark web series, and wrote songs for the critically acclaimed Gangs of Wasseypur.
Recent Directorial Debut
Grover recently made his directorial debut with All India Rank, further establishing his multifaceted talent in the industry. Despite his success, Grover continues to advocate for fair treatment and recognition of writers. His recent comments reflect his ongoing commitment to addressing these industry issues and pushing for a more equitable environment for all creative professionals.
The Path Forward
A Call for Change
Grover’s remarks come at a crucial time when there is growing awareness about the need for better compensation and recognition for writers in Bollywood. His call for change resonates with many in the industry who believe that the contributions of writers are vital to the success of films and should be appropriately acknowledged. As the industry evolves, there is hope that these issues will be addressed, leading to a more inclusive and fair environment for all creatives.
Industry Response and Future Prospects
The response from the industry to Grover’s comments will be critical in determining whether meaningful changes will occur. It remains to be seen if filmmakers and studios will take concrete steps to ensure that writers are given their due credit and compensation. As the conversation around this issue continues, it is essential for industry stakeholders to listen and act in ways that support and uplift the often-overlooked contributors to cinema.
A Growing Movement
Varun Grover’s revelations about the exploitation and underrecognition of writers in Bollywood highlight a significant issue that needs addressing. His experiences and advocacy shed light on the challenges faced by writers and underscore the need for systemic change within the industry. As the Paris Olympics 2024 captivate global audiences, Grover’s call for fairness and respect in Bollywood serves as a reminder of the broader issues that continue to shape the world of cinema. With growing awareness and advocacy, there is hope for a future where writers receive the recognition and respect they deserve.
