Bollywood filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has once again voiced his concern over the unfair treatment of screenwriters in Bollywood, demanding that they be paid in full before a film's release. His statement comes in response to a social media post by writer Darab Farooqui, who opened up about the dire financial conditions faced by screenwriters in the film industry.

Kashyap, known for his outspoken nature, backed Farooqui’s claims, reiterating his long-standing stance on the issue.

Reacting to the post, he wrote on his Instagram story, "Been saying this for years. Writers should either be paid fully before the film begins or they should get profit share because they are the first ones to actually invest in the film."

Farooqui’s post shed light on the common payment structure for writers, stating, "They receive 10 per cent upon signing the contract, and then they must write the entire script, which is then approved for an additional 10-20 per cent. The rest will be paid only if the project is approved when the actor signs. And this is true in most circumstances."

He further said that the mistreatment of writers directly impacts the quality of Bollywood films. "This is why we make lousy movies; because writers suffer. Everyone in the industry works because writers write."

Farooqui also listed several consequences of the 'new system'. Take a look at his post here:

The debate over fair compensation for writers has been a longstanding issue in Bollywood.

In December 2024, Anurag Kashyap, who made his acting debut in the Malayalam film Rifle Club, alongside Hanumankind, announced that he will be moving out of Mumbai in 2025 after being "disappointed" and "disgusted" by the film industry.

He also stated that the joy of filmmaking has been "sucked out."

Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter India, Anurag said it is difficult for him to experiment with his work, as it comes with a cost, making it challenging for producers to focus on profit and margins. "I am going to the South. I want to go where there is stimulation. Otherwise, I will die as an old man. I am so disappointed and disgusted by my own industry. I am disgusted by the mindset," he added.

Anurag stated that talent agencies are focusing on making money and showing little interest in building new careers. He also expressed disappointment with actors whom he once considered friends.