'Bade Miyan Chote Miyan' crew finally paid after lengthy dispute
The ongoing dispute between Pooja Entertainment and director Ali Abbas Zafar over unpaid dues for the Eid 2024 release, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan (BMCM), has taken a new turn. Several crew members have now confirmed to Pinkvilla that they have been paid by Zafar, who recently received subsidy money from Abu Dhabi. This development follows accusations by Zafar and his team against Pooja Entertainment for alleged non-payment of dues.
Crew members expressed gratitude toward Zafar for payments
Several crew members of BMCM have publicly thanked Zafar for settling their payments. Among them are leading action director Parvez Shaikh, film editor Stevan Bernard, and top choreographer Bosco Martis. In addition to these individuals, 10 other crew members including Khalid (actor), Shaurya Kohli (AD), Diksha Pradhan (AD), Saurabh Kumar (associate director), Shahab (actor) also expressed their gratitude on social media platforms.
Shaikh shared their experiences on social media
Shaikh took to social media to support Zafar, stating that the accusations against AAZ Films were baseless. He confirmed that all his wages and payments for stuntmen were cleared through the movie stunt artist association after the Abu Dhabi subsidy was released. However, he mentioned that expensive shoot equipment is still being held by Pooja Films in their Luton studio with no information about its return.
Bernard highlighted payment issues with Pooja Films
Bernard also shared his experience on social media, highlighting irregular and delayed payments from Pooja Films during his work on BMCM. He revealed that a significant amount of his remuneration was outstanding and delayed for over five months after the film's release. However, he expressed relief and gratitude toward AAZ Films for ensuring he received his last installment in full after the Abu Dhabi subsidy was released.
FWICE and IFTDA are closely monitoring the payment process
The Federation of Western Cine Employees (FWICE) and the Indian Film & Television Directors's Association (IFTDA) are closely monitoring the payment process to ensure no misuse of funds. Ashoke Pandit, President of IFTDA, stated that Pooja Entertainment is liable to pay all money to their technicians. He also mentioned that over 150 vendors, technicians, and crew members are expected to be paid off by next week.
