Mushtaq Khan, a familiar face in Indian cinema with decades of experience, recently opened up about the glaring pay disparities he faced during the making of Welcome, the 2007 blockbuster comedy directed by Anees Bazmee. Featuring big names like Akshay Kumar, Anil Kapoor, Nana Patekar, and Katrina Kaif, the film went on to become a massive hit. But behind the scenes, Mushtaq’s experience painted a different picture of the industry’s financial dynamics.
In an interview, the seasoned actor shared how his compensation for the film remained static, regardless of how long he worked on set. “When we have an agreement for anything, it is said that it is a 20-day shoot or a 25-day shoot. Accordingly, we decide our payment. I asked, ‘How much is the wage?’ You said it is a 25-day wage. Accordingly, we decide our payment.” Mushtaq clarified that he didn’t raise the issue with co-stars like Akshay Kumar or Anil Kapoor, emphasizing that his concern was not with the actors, but with the systemic issues in the industry.
What surprised him most was discovering that support staff working for top actors were making more than him. “I will tell you the reason why the payment is more. It is fixed with us that you will do this film for Rs 1 lakh. So you have to do it, even if it takes 20-25 days. Now those people, the staff, are on per day duty. If we are also on duty, then imagine how much money we get.” He recounted how his request for revised pay due to extended shooting days was turned down by the producer, who told him he should simply feel grateful to be part of such a big production.
Despite the financial letdown, Mushtaq Khan holds no bitterness about the film itself. In fact, he expressed a sense of contentment with how beloved his character became over time. The memes, the internet love, and the recognition he continues to receive from Welcome are things he deeply cherishes.
The film’s success eventually gave rise to a sequel, Welcome Back, in 2015, and a third part, Welcome to the Jungle, is slated for release this year. Meanwhile, Mushtaq continues to stay active in the industry and was most recently seen in Stree 2, alongside a talented ensemble featuring Shraddha Kapoor, Rajkummar Rao, Aparshakti Khurana, Abhishek Banerjee, and Pankaj Tripathi.
