Bollywood writers in India are fighting against what they perceive as unfair contracts that greatly favor producers and exploit them financially. The Screenwriters Association (SWA) is advocating for changes to these contracts, including better pay, job security, and credit for their work. Many writers argue that the current contracts have arbitrary termination clauses, offer low fees, and give producers the sole power to decide whether a writer should be credited or not. Furthermore, some contracts even prohibit writers from seeking help from the union in case of any disputes with the producers.
The SWA organized a meeting in December where they discussed the changes they want to see in their contracts. Over 100 writers, including well-known names in Bollywood, attended the meeting. The organization plans to invite producers to collaborate in making contracts more equitable. According to Anjum Rajabali, a senior member of the SWA, most producers are aware that writers deserve better pay and some kind of job security.
The movement for fair contracts in India is still in its early stages. Unlike the United States, where a successful writers’ strike brought about better terms for writers, Indian screenwriters are taking a more cautious approach. The Indian film industry relies heavily on maintaining good relationships, and the industry is fiercely competitive, with many aspiring writers waiting for their big break. Additionally, the concept of written contracts for writers is relatively new in India. Previously, writers relied on verbal agreements with producers, resulting in irregular and often delayed payments.
However, the emergence of big corporations funding studios in the mid-2000s led to the introduction of written contracts for writers. Nevertheless, as producers strive to maximize profits and minimize financial risks, these contracts have become harsher and more unreasonable. For instance, some producers now include clauses that make writers responsible for any losses incurred due to protests or controversies arising from their films. This is in response to the increasing instances of hardliner groups targeting films for “hurting religious sentiments.” This clause puts writers in a vulnerable position and affects their creativity.
Many writers in Bollywood struggle to make a living due to the exploitative nature of their contracts. Hitesh Kewalya, a screenwriter based in Mumbai, recalls a time when he had written seven movie scripts but was not paid for any of them because the films were not made. This lack of financial stability often drives talented writers to quit the industry.
However, there is a glimmer of hope, as some producers have started implementing corrective measures. Nikhil Taneja, a former senior executive of a prominent Bollywood production company, has begun offering remuneration proportional to the scale of a project to writers under his own company, Yuvaa. This means that if a project’s budget increases, the writer’s fee also increases, which is uncommon in the entertainment industry. Taneja acknowledges that writers’ contracts are exploitative, but he attributes this to the risky nature of filmmaking.
Nevertheless, industry experts believe that writers deserve better treatment, considering that their scripts form the foundation of a film. They argue that change will only come when writers unite and demand their rights. The SWA plans to continue pressing for better contracts, including a minimum basic fee for all writers, due credit for their work, and the removal of exploitative termination and indemnity clauses.
Overall, the fight for fair contracts in Bollywood will be a long one, but writers are known for their perseverance and determination. As the advocacy for change gains momentum, it is crucial for writers to unite and demand their rights to ensure a more equitable and thriving film industry in India.
