Sarmad Khoosat raises royalties issue over Humsafar

Pakistani filmmaker Sarmad Khoosat has highlighted the long-standing issue of royalty payments in the country’s entertainment industry after the popular television drama Humsafar was announced for a Spanish-language release. His reaction has renewed discussions about whether Pakistani artists receive fair compensation when their work continues reaching new audiences years after its original broadcast.

Khoosat, who directed the hit drama, shared an announcement from HUM TV on his Instagram story on Tuesday. The announcement revealed plans to dub Humsafar into Spanish, allowing the series to reach viewers in another language. Reacting to the development, the filmmaker wrote, “If only there were royalties,” alongside a blank-faced emoji.

His brief comment highlighted a significant concern for creative professionals who help produce successful television shows but may not receive additional payments when those projects are broadcast again or distributed internationally.

Royalties are payments made to artists and other creative contributors when their work is reused, rebroadcast or distributed under agreements that provide for such compensation. These payments can offer performers, directors, writers and other professionals an opportunity to earn money long after a production has completed its original television run.

However, Pakistan’s television industry has struggled to establish a consistent system that allows artists to benefit financially from the continued success of their work.

The issue has historical roots, dating back to the 1990s, when royalty payments reportedly became less common following decisions by several established actors to surrender their royalty rights in exchange for higher payments from state-run Pakistan Television (PTV).

Although the arrangement offered performers greater immediate earnings, it also reduced their opportunities to receive continuing income from productions that remained popular over the years. Private television channels have largely continued operating without a widespread royalty system.

In 2021, several veteran performers expressed regret over the decision, explaining that royalty payments could have provided them with greater financial stability. Their concerns highlighted the long-term consequences of an arrangement that continues to affect artists across different generations.

Actor Mahira Khan, who starred in Humsafar alongside Fawad Khan, has also spoken about the issue. In March, while promoting her film Aag Lagay Basti Main, she highlighted the challenges faced by artists who depend on their professional work for financial security.

Khan explained that established celebrities might have more opportunities to earn money through different projects. However, junior actors, technicians and other members of production teams often face greater financial difficulties. For these professionals, royalties could provide an important source of income when a television production continues attracting viewers.

The debate also gained attention in 2021 when actor Naila Jaffery discussed the financial challenges she experienced while undergoing cancer treatment. She highlighted how royalty payments could have helped cover medical expenses and reduced the financial pressure associated with her illness.

Her appeal brought attention to the uncertain financial circumstances faced by many performers, particularly those who do not receive regular work or have access to substantial savings.

The planned Spanish-language release of Humsafar has once again raised questions about the financial rights of Pakistani artists. The drama’s continued international appeal demonstrates how television productions can remain valuable long after their original release.

For Khoosat, the announcement represents an opportunity for Pakistani entertainment to reach a wider global audience. However, his reaction also highlights the importance of ensuring that the people behind successful productions receive fair recognition and financial benefits.

As Pakistani dramas continue attracting international viewers, the demand for a transparent and sustainable royalty system is likely to remain an important issue for the country’s entertainment industry.