Huma Qureshi opens up about pay disparity on OTT: ‘Maharani is possibly the most-watched show, but do I get paid as much as my male counterparts?’

While Huma Qureshi acknowledged the opportunities that OTT platforms have created for talents like Jaideep Ahlawat, Shefali Shah, and herself, but she also expressed concern that the space is becoming too generic.

By: Entertainment Desk

Mumbai | Updated: May 16, 2025 04:40 PM IST

2 min read

Huma Qureshi spotlighted the critical issue of pay disparity plaguing the industry.

Huma Qureshi has firmly cemented her place in the digital entertainment space with her standout performance in the critically acclaimed OTT series Maharani. Her portrayal of Rani Bharti resonated deeply with audiences, helping the show gain massive popularity. In a recent conversation with India Today, she opened up about how the OTT boom has transformed careers for actors like her — and also spotlighted a critical issue plaguing the industry: pay disparity.

“Maharani is possibly the most watched show and the most loved show,” Huma said. “But do I get paid as much as my male counterparts who are doing an OTT show? Far from it. So that’s still a space one needs to negotiate. And it’s very unfortunate. But it is a reality.” She didn’t shy away from pointing out the stark pay gap between male and female leads, even in cases where the female actor carries the show. “I am the number one on the show. But I’m saying, if I’m comparing another show with any male-led show, they would be paid far more. I keep hearing about male actors getting ₹45 crores, and I’m like, why?”

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When asked why such disparities persist, Huma said, “There is no reason given. It’s just how things are.” However, she remains optimistic that things can change if the conversation continues. “I think all of us collectively are talking about it. And all of us, I think, are rejecting substandard content. And I’m talking more about relevant stories that need to be told.” While she acknowledged the opportunities that OTT platforms have created for talents like Jaideep Ahlawat, Shefali Shah, and herself, she also expressed concern that the space is becoming too generic. She stressed the need for reinvention in storytelling to keep the medium fresh and meaningful.

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