Aalim Hakim, a prominent celebrity hairstylist known for crafting hairstyles for esteemed personalities such as Rajinikanth and Salman Khan, as well as cricketer Virat Kohli, is making headlines with his views on hairstylist ethics in the film industry. Recently, he designed looks for actors Ranbir Kapoor in the 2023 film “Animal” and Vicky Kaushal in “Chaava,” showcasing his versatility and talent in the industry.
In a candid interview with Hindi Rush, Hakim expressed his concerns regarding some hairstylists who inflate their fees based on the success of the films their clients are involved in. He emphasized that this practice tarnishes the reputation of both actors and technicians alike. Hakim stated, “A hairstylist sometimes feels an actor won’t work well without them. They arm-twist the production house to increase their fees by three times. That’s dishonesty, that’s unethical.”
Hakim maintains that a hairstylist’s fees should be consistent, regardless of the box office performance of the films their clients are associated with. He argued, “What does a technician have to do with a film becoming a superhit? They’ve just cut the actor’s hair.” He believes that the credit for a successful film belongs to the actors and the directors and should not affect the fees of hairstylists.
Further, he advocates for professionalism within the industry. Hakim suggests that hairstylists should focus on being production-friendly instead of seeking excessive fee increases. He explained, “If I charge Rs 1 lakh for a haircut, that’s my fees. It doesn’t depend on whether my last film was a hit or not.”
Hakim’s principles extend beyond mere economics. He values relationships and respect over monetary gain. “Friendship, respect, and value are more important to me than money,” he noted, adding that a reputation built on honesty is essential for longevity in the industry.
Notably, he maintains a standard fee of Rs 1 lakh per haircut for both celebrities and ordinary clients, indicating an egalitarian approach to his work. Hakim believes that his craft is valuable but remains committed to providing the same level of service regardless of his client’s status.
In a world where financial motivations often overshadow artistic integrity, Hakim’s perspective offers a refreshing take on professionalism and respect within the showbiz community. His commitment to consistency in his service fees is not only a statement against unethical practices but also a testament to his passion for hairstyling as an art form.