Bollywood star Deepika Padukone ignited discussions about implementing an eight-hour workday for actors following her rumored departure from the films Spirit and Kalki 2898 AD. In a recent conversation with Harper’s Bazaar India, Deepika explained the benefits of an eight-hour shift and advocated for increased support for new mothers in professional settings.
Deepika Padukone calls for increased assistance for mothers who have recently given birth
Deepika expressed that becoming a mother has completely transformed her, affirming that all the common sayings about motherhood are accurate. She acknowledged that when mothers say, 'You'll understand when you become one,' it holds true. Her respect for her own mother has significantly increased. Although one might plan how to balance work and motherhood, the actual experience is quite different. She emphasized the importance of supporting new mothers as they re-enter the workforce, which is a cause she is passionate about.
She elaborated on why an eight-hour workday is perfect for actors, stating, "We've accepted overworking as normal. We confuse exhaustion with dedication. Eight hours of daily work is sufficient for both the body and mind. You can only perform at your best when you're healthy. Reintegrating a fatigued individual into the system benefits no one. In my office, we work eight hours a day from Monday to Friday. We have policies for maternity and paternity leave. Bringing children to the workplace should be normalized."
Regarding Deepika Padukone's exit from the projects Spirit and Kalki 2898 AD.
In September 2024, Deepika welcomed her first child, Dua Padukone Singh. By May, she had reportedly left Sandeep Reddy Vanga's film Spirit. Following her departure, it was rumored that she had requested a share of the profits and an eight-hour workday, which supposedly did not please the director. Subsequently, Sandeep cast Triptii Dimri alongside Prabhas instead of Deepika.
In September, the actor was also removed from the sequel of Nag Ashwin's Kalki 2898 AD. Vyjayanthi Movies announced this on X, stating: 'We officially announce that @deepikapadukone will not be part of the upcoming #Kalki2898AD sequel. After thorough consideration, we have decided to go separate ways. Despite the extensive process of creating the first film, we couldn't establish a partnership. A film like @Kalki2898AD requires that level of dedication and more. We wish her success in her future endeavors.' Shortly after, reports suggested that the split was due to the actor's requests for a 25% salary increase, accommodations in a five-star hotel for her team, and a seven-hour workday.
Information regarding the forthcoming films of Deepika Padukone
Deepika is set to appear in two major upcoming projects. She will star in Atlee's AA22 x A6 alongside Allu Arjun, with both actors taking on action-packed roles in this sci-fi thriller that is already creating a lot of excitement. Additionally, Deepika is involved in Shah Rukh Khan's King, directed by Siddharth Anand, featuring Jaideep Ahlawat, Abhishek Bachchan, and Suhana Khan in significant roles. The film is anticipated to be released in 2026.
