What did Deepika Padukone say about Bollywood work culture?

Deepika Padukone publicly raised the question of 12-hour (or longer) workdays in Bollywood, remarking that many male superstars have adhered to eight-hour shifts for years without media mention.

How have veteran actors like Himani Shivpuri responded to the debate?

Veteran actor Himani Shivpuri, known for her roles in iconic films, has shared how she is very particular about working only eight hours and has turned down projects with demanding long hours.

What is the Bhojpuri actress Rani Chatterjee's perspective on the issue?

Rani Chatterjee, a popular face in the Bhojpuri film industry, has praised Deepika Padukone for starting an important dialogue and reflected on the lack of structural change within regional cinema, where working conditions remain demanding.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Bollywood Superstars Defy 8-Hour Workday Norm, Sparking Debate

Bollywood Superstars Defy 8-Hour Workday Norm, Sparking Debate

1 Nov

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Summary

Deepika Padukone questions 12-hour workdays in Bollywood
Veteran actor Himani Shivpuri insists on 8-hour shifts
Bhojpuri actress Rani Chatterjee praises Deepika for starting dialogue

Bollywood Superstars Defy 8-Hour Workday Norm, Sparking Debate

In November 2025, Deepika Padukone's comments about 12-hour workdays in Bollywood sparked a long-overdue debate about workplace culture, gender bias, and the normalisation of exhaustion in India's film industry. Padukone's statement, which came shortly after her return to work post-motherhood, highlighted the intense physical and emotional demands of her profession.

The debate has since gained momentum, with several industry insiders sharing their personal experiences and perspectives. Veteran actor Himani Shivpuri, known for her roles in iconic films like 'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge' and 'Hum Aapke Hain Koun', explained how the idea of a fixed 8-hour shift has long been elusive in showbiz. Shivpuri shared how she has turned down projects with demanding long hours, insisting on an 8-hour workday.