The cult classic Ainak Wala Jinn was the favourite TV show for most children born in the ’90s. Recently, it was discovered that the iconic ‘Bil Bator’, played by the very talented Nusrat Ara was found begging on the streets of Lahore.
The distressing episode prompted satirist Junaid Akram to speak up on the plight of veteran artistes in this part of the world. He has expressed his anguish in a new video captioned, “Pakistan ka artiste bheek maangnay pe kyun majboor hota hai? Artistes ki qadar karo.”
In the video, Junaid – famous for his satirical rants on social and political issues – highlighted the plight of Pakistani artistes and why they are doomed. “An artiste’s final resort is to beg on the streets. And then they die struggling,” he said. “No matter how big a star is, they remain dependent on government assistance as they are not paid well.”
The comedian went on to slam society over its stereotypical notions regarding the creative. “We don’t appreciate our artistes. Children who major in the arts are belittled,” Junaid said. “When these children grow up and graduate, they aren’t considered artistes. In fact, they are called names. If a person is a musician, he is a mirasi. If a comedian, he’s a juggalbaaz…”
“Artistes are looked down upon by people all the time and these very people look up to them when they want to be entertained. Artistes are not accorded due respect,” Junaid said.
Junaid also spoke about the rampant exploitation artistes experience. “I am invited to events at several universities and asked to perform for free. People are ready to pay anyone but artistes,” he shared.
“I have a backup plan for myself. I’ll be selling make-up pallettes to eke a living,” Junaid said.
