Director Calls Deepika Padukones 8-Hour Work Shift Request Unrealistic
Mumbai, July 11, 2025 — Veteran filmmaker Suneel Darshan has entered the heated debate sparked by Bollywood superstar Deepika Padukone’s alleged demand for an eight‑hour shooting shift—calling the request “unreal” and cautioning producers that “she is not irreplaceable.”
“Unreal” Demand?
Speaking to IANS, Darshan remarked:
The producer should first take from her in writing that for the 8 hours she is on the set, she will be giving shots. Instead of 8 if she even gives shots for 4 hours, the producer will touch her feet in gratitude.
He stressed the impracticality of such a demand in Bollywood’s fast‑paced production model, adding a blunt reminder: “There was a time when Deepika was not a part of the industry. You will be able to find several new talents.”
Industry Clash: Work‑Life Balance vs. Production Realities
Deepika’s stand—which reportedly led to her exit from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit and also impacted her involvement in Kalki 2—has ignited a broader discourse on standard working hours within the film industry.
Support for Deepika:
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Soha Ali Khan empathises with her as a new mother, calling her stance sympathetic.
- Anurag Basu echoed support, saying he wants actors “happy on set” and shares her dislike for marathon shooting days.
- Neha Dhupia emphasized practical support for working mothers, reminding that talk is easy but implementation is key
- Sonakshi Sinha regarded the demand as achievable and fair, citing male peers already working similar hours.
- Kabir Khan highlighted mental health benefits, noting stars like Aamir and Akshay already honour eight‑hour shifts.
- Tarun Mansukhani, director of Housefull 5, gave conditional support—advocating clear scheduling agreements in contracts.
A Turning Point or Overreach?
Deepika, who became a mother in September 2024, has called attention to the grueling hours typical on Bollywood sets, signaling a possible shift toward structured schedules and better work-life balance .
But as Suneel Darshan’s remarks underscore, entrenched production dynamics—tight budgets, location logistics, co‑star availability—make accommodating such demands complex.
Read more: Alia Bhatts Former Assistant in Legal Trouble: Arrested for Rs 77 Lakh Scam
What’s Next?
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Will producers formalize shooting hours in contracts?
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Will more high-profile actors demand fixed shifts?
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Could this lead to a systemic industry change—or custom arrangements per project?
As Bollywood continues to juggle artistic careers, family commitments, and commercial pressures, the clash between traditional grind culture and calls for humane working norms is only intensifying.
