Pakistani singer Zeeshan Rokhri has raised concerns about the low payments offered to leading actors in Lollywood. He said he was surprised to learn that veteran actor Moammar Rana was reportedly cast in a film for just PKR 500,000.
Zeeshan Rokhri shared his views during a recent interview while discussing his own fee for a film project. He explained that he learned about Moammar Rana’s reported payment during a conversation about casting and production costs.
According to Rokhri, he had already informed the producers about his own charges for dedicating eight days to the project. During those discussions, filmmaker Sangeeta reportedly mentioned the amount being paid to Moammar Rana for the film.
The singer said the information left him disappointed because of the actor’s long-standing contribution to Pakistan’s film industry. He described Moammar Rana as one of the country’s biggest stars and said experienced actors deserve greater financial recognition.
Rokhri questioned why such a well-known actor would receive only PKR 500,000 for a project. He said the payment did not reflect the value and reputation of a leading film star.
He also pointed out that Pakistan often compares its film industry with India’s. However, he argued that such comparisons become difficult when local actors are paid significantly less than their counterparts.
During the interview, the host mentioned that Zeeshan Rokhri reportedly charges around PKR 1.5 million for a single event. The singer responded by saying that his actual fee is even higher. He clarified that his comments were not about personal earnings but about the overall condition of the entertainment industry.
Rokhri stressed that he was not criticising veteran actress and filmmaker Sangeeta. Instead, he said he respected her and was highlighting a broader issue affecting the Pakistani film industry.
He explained that if Pakistan wants to compete with larger regional film industries, it must invest more in its leading artists. In his view, underpaying major actors sends the wrong message about the industry’s priorities.
The singer also noted that the reported payment would equal only a small amount when compared with what leading actors in India earn. He said this difference makes it difficult for Pakistani cinema to compete on a larger scale.
Rokhri added that the issue goes beyond one actor or one film. He believes the low fee offered to a leading hero reflects a wider challenge in how Lollywood values its established stars.
He also referred to actress Saima Noor, saying that even if she received several times the reported amount, it would still remain modest compared to regional industry standards.
The discussion centred on Mukho, an upcoming Punjabi feature film directed by veteran actress and filmmaker Sangeeta. The movie is backed by the Punjab government and features a cast that includes Saima Noor, Moammar Rana, Meera, Hassan Murad, Fajar, and several other actors in diverse roles.
Sangeeta has previously said the film was completed on a tight production schedule with continuous day and night shooting. She expressed hope that Mukho would encourage audiences to return to cinema halls and support the revival of Pakistani cinema.
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The film is currently scheduled for release on December 25, 2026. Industry observers will be watching closely to see whether it helps strengthen Lollywood and sparks wider discussions about fair compensation for actors and performers.
