MUMBAI: A lot of people work hard and for endless hours for any project to be successful, but the sad reality is that audiences largely appreciate the face of the project, that is, the actors.

An important aspect that determines the success of a show is casting. TellyChakkar got in touch with popular casting director Anil Sharma to gain an insight about the job.

Anil has carved a niche into the profession with some successful projects including MTV Splitsvilla, MTV India’s Next Top Model (Seasons 1 to 4), Sadda Haq, Million Dollar Girl, and Ishq SubhanAllah. We asked him about his best casting to date, and he said ‘Sadda Haq is definitely my best casting, as there were lots of characters and they equally performed well. I took a chance on lots of freshers and they have delivered their best, so much so that they are right now the superstars of television.’

While Anil tasted tremendous success with his shows, he has not received the monetary dues that he deserves. He said, ‘The worst and depressing struggle that I am going through is about payments, and since there are no such associations that represent casting directors, we have to face a lot in regard to our payments. When you are in-house, they pay you after two months. When you freelance, they pay you after 6 months. Sometimes, they do not just pay. For example, I have done the casting for a popular Zee TV show, but it’s almost one year and I haven't received a single penny. The producers are not picking my calls and not replying to my messages. The production people are asking for bribe to get my payment out. They want 50% of my payment. It’s like #MeToo with regard to the wrong use of power. Why would I share my hard-earned money with anyone? I have worked hard for the same, and only I have the right over it.’

Anil has now successfully ventured into cinema as a casting director. He added, ‘I am working on a feature film with one of the most celebrated directors of Indian cinema. I hope to reach new heights of success.’

Here’s wishing him good luck.