Actor Deepika Padukone has finally spoken out following the controversy around her demand for an 8-hour work shift after exiting Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit and Nag Ashwin’s Kalki 2.
In an interview with CNBC-TV18, Deepika highlighted the long-standing double standards in the Indian film industry, pointing out that male superstars have routinely worked eight-hour shifts for years without making headlines.
“By virtue of being a woman, if that’s coming across as being pushy or whatever, then so be it. But it is no secret that a lot of superstars, male superstars, have been working for eight hours for years, and it’s never made headlines,” she said.
Deepika Calls for Industry Reforms
The actor criticized the industry’s lack of structure, saying:
“Even though it’s termed an industry, we have never really worked like one. It’s very disorganised, and I think it’s time we brought in some system into this culture.”
Deepika stressed that many male actors work Monday to Friday, only eight hours a day, and don’t shoot on weekends, underscoring her call for gender-equitable work practices.
Exits from Spirit and Kalki 2898 AD Sequel
Deepika’s exit from Spirit reportedly stemmed from her request to limit work hours so she could spend time with her daughter, Dua, which the production team could not accommodate.
Similarly, Vyjayanthi Movies announced that Deepika would no longer be part of the Kalki 2898 AD sequel, stating that the decision was made after “careful consideration,” adding that a film of this scale requires a higher level of commitment.
Upcoming Projects
Deepika has quickly moved on, starting work on King, directed by Siddharth Anand, starring Shah Rukh Khan, Suhana Khan, and Abhishek Bachchan. She will also feature in AA22xA6, directed by Atlee, alongside Allu Arjun, continuing her busy schedule despite the recent controversies.
