Indian TV stars demand respect for technicians

Mumbai, April 30 (IANS) Ever wondered what goes around behind the screen to shoot just one sequence of a TV programme? A day ahead of International Workers' Day, which is observed on May 1, silver screen artists have demanded respect for the technicians who make showbiz a reality.

Here is what the TV fraternity members have to share:

Mohammad Nazim: The work hours stretch beyond 12 hours. Technicians need to be motivated in different ways and I personally feel that they are as professional as anyone else.

Subuhi Joshi: I think labourers in the industry like spot boys and light men work harder than all of us. They should be treated well. I've seen a lot of people talking to them in a disgusting way, it's completely wrong. They should be treated as equals. They should be given proper meals and respect.

Mrunal Jain: The folks behind the scenes need to be treated well and pampered from time to time. Their working dedication can't be ignored.

Shivangi Verma: TV industry is growing by leaps and bounds. Technicians need to be taken care of. They are silent contributors in making the show.

Gunjan Utreja: With the increasing trend of TV soaps being aired six to seven days a week, shooting each episode may have become more stressful and demanding for the technicians. The least we can do for them is to provide a safer environment to work.

Vishal Singh: I love my work, so I am fine if the working hours stretch. Technicians also contribute a lot in the making of a show so their needs should be taken care of.

Pooja Banerjee: This field is obviously very difficult to work in, but a lot can be done to make the working conditions better by making some strict laws. Folks behind the scenes should be treated with respect just like any other professional.

Janvi Vora: TV industry must also work from 9 to 5 or 10 to 6, so that everyone gets to spend time at home. For technicians, it is much worse than (life for) actors. They start hours before the shift time and pack up hours later. It's just not fair to them, as in this industry, technicians are actually exploited. Shift hours must be reduced in TV industry for all.

Ripu Daman Handa: There are different categories and levels of labour in the TV industry. I personally feel that the real heroes of the TV and film industry are the technicians and helpers who always stand to support and help the show...These are the people who are always treated as the unsung heroes and are hardly credited and thanked for their immense job. These people should be uplifted and treated with respect and (be given) equal treatment as any star or celebrity.