The strike by the Telugu Film Federation demanding a 30 percent hike in wages and allowances created a big stir in the film industry. With shootings suddenly coming to a halt, the entire industry came to a standstill. Some producers argued that Telugu film workers already earn more compared to other industries and opposed the strike. Others felt the workers’ demand was fair since there had been no pay hike for the past three years, though many agreed that a 30 percent hike in one go would be difficult.
In this situation, senior members of the Telugu Film Chamber held discussions with worker representatives to find a workable solution. They agreed to increase wages, but not to the extent workers demanded. Instead, they proposed a phased hike. Senior producer Damodar Prasad revealed the details to the media.
For workers earning ₹2,000 per day, the chamber agreed to a 15 percent hike this year, followed by 5 percent next year and another 5 percent the year after. Workers earning ₹1,000 per day will get a 20 percent hike now, no increase in the second year, and a 5 percent hike in the third year.
However, for those working on small-budget films, wages will remain unchanged so that low-budget productions are not burdened. Damodar Prasad said this proposal would be implemented only if workers agree, and the final decision rests on mutual consent between both sides.
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