Mahira Khan has expressed solidarity with veteran actor Syed Mohammad Ahmed after his recent criticism of delayed payments in Pakistan’s entertainment industry.

In a statement on Instagram, Khan stressed that if senior and popular actors face such difficulties, the situation is far worse for those with less recognition.

She wrote, “Imagine.... if senior actors, popular actors, hit-maker directors go through this, just imagine what technicians go through."

Ahmed, in a widely shared interview, accused production houses of withholding payments for months, with actors often waiting three to eight months, and in some cases, never being paid. 

He described the treatment of actors seeking payment as demeaning, forcing them to justify personal financial needs.

Actor Hajra Yamin added that contracts are largely one-sided, penalising actors for cancellations while letting producers off easily.

 She noted that technicians and junior crew sometimes work without pay, compensated only with meals.

Saheefa Jabbar Khattak revealed she once suggested adding healthcare and anti-harassment clauses to contracts, but was ignored. 

She also admitted needing therapy for six months after completing each project due to stress.

Director Mehreen Jabbar observed that many professionals remain silent for fear of losing future work.

Actors Ramsha Khan, Yasir Hussain, Nadia Afgan, Alizeh Shah, and Khushhal Khan have also raised concerns. Insiders say production houses rarely face consequences, leaving actors and crews struggling under financial uncertainty and mental strain.