Actor Upasana Singh, best known to audiences as Pinky Bua from The Kapil Sharma Show, has spoken candidly about the difficult realities that exist behind the entertainment industry’s glittering exterior.
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“People don’t see the darkness”
In an exclusive interaction with IANS, the veteran actress said that while the industry appears glamorous from the outside, it hides deep-rooted struggles, intense competition and constant uncertainty.
“People don’t see the darkness behind the film industry,” Upasana said. “A common person believes that actors live a very comfortable life, but the reality is far from that.”
A wake-up call as CINTAA general secretary
Upasana revealed that her perspective changed drastically when she took on the role of general secretary of CINTAA (Cine and Television Artistes’ Association).
“Once I became general secretary, people started approaching me with their problems,” she shared. “Some actors told me they hardly earn Rs 1,200 in a year. Others said they get work for only four or five days, and from a payment of Rs 5,000 per day, the coordinator takes 25 percent.” She added that payments are often delayed for months. “Despite working hard, many receive their money after 90 or even 120 days.”
Surviving in an expensive city
Highlighting the financial strain, Upasana pointed out how deductions further shrink already modest earnings. “After TDS and commissions, very little is left. And this is Mumbai, where rent is high, school fees have to be paid and daily household expenses never stop.”
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Health takes a backseat
The actress also spoke about the severe impact this financial instability has on health. “Many people can’t even afford medical treatment. They avoid doctors simply because they don’t have money. They are just struggling to survive.”
Using her position to help others
Reflecting on her own journey, Upasana expressed gratitude for her success but admitted that witnessing these struggles was heartbreaking.
“By God’s grace, I have been fortunate. I got good work and lead roles,” she said. “But seeing the condition of others saddened me deeply. That’s why we are continuously trying to help them in whatever way we can.”
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A four-decade-long career
Upasana Singh has been part of the entertainment industry for nearly four decades, carving a niche across films and television. She has appeared in popular Hindi and Punjabi films such as Judwaa, Hulchul, Hungama, Golmaal Returns and Chak De Phatte.
On television, she became a household name through comic roles in Comedy Nights with Kapil and The Kapil Sharma Show, where her portrayal of Pinky Bua earned immense popularity.