Deepika Padukone responds to controversy over long shooting hours
Deepika Padukone said that, despite being called an industry, Bollywood has never truly functioned like a professional industry.
Deepika Padukone Breaks Silence on 8-Hour Shift Controversy
Actor Deepika Padukone has finally broken her silence following the controversy that arose after her demand for an eight-hour work shift during shoots. The debate intensified after her exit from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit and the sequel to Nag Ashwin’s Kalki 2898 AD. Speaking candidly with CNBC-TV18, Deepika addressed the criticism and explained the reasoning behind her decision, highlighting long-standing discrepancies in the Indian film industry when it comes to working hours and gender.
In the interview, Deepika shared how male superstars in the industry have been working eight-hour shifts for years without it making headlines, emphasizing that her request was being viewed differently because she is a woman.
Deepika elaborated that this is widely known within the industry. They do not work on weekends,” she explained. Her comments underscored a point that has been quietly acknowledged in Bollywood circles but rarely discussed publicly: that women are often scrutinized more for setting boundaries around their work schedules than men are.
The actor also reflected on the larger structural issues in Bollywood. She described Bollywood as “a very disorganized industry,” adding that she believes it is time to implement more systems and structures to professionalize work culture. Her statements resonate with many who have long advocated for standardized work practices, including regulated hours, fair compensation, and more support for actors balancing personal commitments.
Deepika’s exit from Spirit reportedly stemmed from her desire to limit her workday to eight hours so that she could spend time with her daughter, Dua. According to sources close to the production, the team could not accommodate her request, prompting her to step away from the film. While the decision sparked debate online, Deepika stressed that her intention was never to be difficult but to maintain a healthy work-life balance — a balance that many male colleagues have been able to maintain without controversy.
The situation further unfolded when Vyjayanthi Movies announced that Deepika would no longer be part of the Kalki 2898 AD sequel. The studio stated that they had “carefully considered” the matter and concluded that a project of such scale required a higher level of “commitment.” While the news generated headlines, Deepika emphasized that her priority remains her well-being and her family, and she expressed hope that the conversation about professional working conditions in Bollywood will continue beyond her personal case.
Throughout the interview, Deepika maintained a calm yet firm stance, making it clear that her request was reasonable and aligned with industry standards already set by male actors. She also highlighted the importance of creating a culture in the industry where actors, regardless of gender, can work within defined hours without being labeled difficult or pushy. Her comments are being seen as a wake-up call for a more organized and empathetic work culture in Indian cinema, encouraging production houses to recognize the human aspect of filmmaking.
Ultimately, Deepika’s public statements mark a pivotal moment in Bollywood discussions around gender, work-life balance, and professional standards. By speaking openly, she has brought attention to disparities that have long existed and sparked a broader conversation about fairness, professionalism, and respect in the Indian film industry.
As Bollywood continues to evolve, her stance could inspire future actors — male and female alike — to advocate for healthier working conditions, ensuring that talent is respected and treated equitably. Deepika Padukone, through her calm but resolute explanation, has not just addressed a personal controversy but highlighted a systemic issue that affects many in the industry.