📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Bollywood Hungama
Entertainment
Ananth Mahadevan Criticises OTT Platforms Over Pay Issues
✍️ The Times of India
🗓 11 Aug 2026, 12:36 PM
👁 6
Film industry veteran Ananth Mahadevan has publicly questioned the remuneration practices of OTT platforms, stating that creators must prove themselves to earn salaries. The comment was reported by The Times of India.
Ananth Mahadevan, a prominent figure in the Indian film industry, voiced his concerns about the pay structures of over‑the‑top (OTT) streaming services in a recent interview. He remarked that creators should not be treated as mere content suppliers but must demonstrate their value to secure fair remuneration.
Mahadevan’s comments come amid growing discussions about the financial models of OTT platforms, which have rapidly expanded distribution channels for filmmakers and actors. Critics argue that the current pay scales often favor the platforms over the talent that produces the content.
The Times of India reported the remarks, highlighting Mahadevan’s call for a more transparent and equitable approach to compensating creators. He emphasized that the industry needs to shift from a “one‑size‑fits‑all” model to one that rewards proven performance and audience impact.
Industry stakeholders have responded with mixed reactions, with some acknowledging the need for better pay structures while others defend the current models as sustainable for the evolving digital landscape.
Mahadevan’s comments come amid growing discussions about the financial models of OTT platforms, which have rapidly expanded distribution channels for filmmakers and actors. Critics argue that the current pay scales often favor the platforms over the talent that produces the content.
The Times of India reported the remarks, highlighting Mahadevan’s call for a more transparent and equitable approach to compensating creators. He emphasized that the industry needs to shift from a “one‑size‑fits‑all” model to one that rewards proven performance and audience impact.
Industry stakeholders have responded with mixed reactions, with some acknowledging the need for better pay structures while others defend the current models as sustainable for the evolving digital landscape.