While actors and filmmakers bask in the spotlight, the technicians who work behind the cameras often struggle with long working hours, delayed wages, inadequate compensation and proper working conditions. Light men, who play a crucial role in setting up and operating lighting equipment on film or television sets, say they continue to work under challenging conditions despite being among the backbone of the industry.
In a recent docu-series that production house Reelzen Creative shared on its Instagram handle, several light men from Delhi, who frequently work on Bollywood film, spoke about the realities of their profession.
‘We Wake Up At 2 Or 3 AM To Reach The Set’
For Suraj Gautam, owner of Wide Light in Delhi, the workday often begins long before sunrise. “To reach the set on time, I
give a call time of 3 am,” he said. He explained that it is also because they are supposed to keep the set up ready before the cameras can finally roll.
Freelance lightman Dinesh Bharti also echoed the sentiment, saying there is no fixed schedule in the profession. “We don’t have any fixed hour to start our day. It can be either 2 am or 5 am. In this film industry, light men have the most demanding job. Yet they are paid the least,” he shared.
Paid Rs 1,800 Per Day, No Overtime
Despite the physically demanding nature of their work, light men say their wages remain modest. According to Suraj Gautam, the standard daily pay is around Rs 1,800, irrespective of how long the shift extends. Dinesh Bharti also claimed that they are given overtime if they work for 17 or 18 hours. However, if they work for just couple of hours extra, nobody cares.
Many are now demanding that the daily wage be revised to Rs 2,000, arguing that the current pay no longer matches the rising cost of living and the intensity of the work.
‘Producers Say They Don’t Have Money’
Another major concern that these light men raise is delayed payments. Suraj Gautam claimed that when it comes to paying light men or spot boys, producers often cite financial constraints. “When it comes to payments of light men or spot boys, producers say they do not have money,” he said.
Reportedly, the issue has become more common in recent years. Freelance lightman Amar Singh said payment delays have become routine, particularly after the shift to digital transactions. “Earlier, we used to get money on the same day. But today, since everyone can make online transactions, they call us to work but then keep delaying payments. It takes at least two to three months,” he claimed.
