Filmmaker: Actors Must Adapt to Industry Work Culture

Filmmaker Venky Atluri has weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding fixed working hours in the film industry, asserting that actors should adapt to the established work culture of the industry they choose to enter. Speaking on differences between the Hindi and Telugu film industries, Atluri stressed the importance of respecting local practices.

He noted that shoots in the Telugu industry often extend to 11 or 12 hours, and artists transitioning from other industries should be prepared for these schedules. Atluri recounted an instance on the set of his upcoming film 'Vishwanath and Sons' where an extended schedule was necessary due to challenging weather conditions.

The director highlighted that flexibility is key, recalling how an actor was willing to accommodate a longer shoot to maintain continuity, despite initial concerns from their manager. Atluri stated that he himself would adhere to different working conditions if directing a film in another industry, such as Bollywood.

This discussion gained traction following reports of Deepika Padukone reportedly exiting projects due to her preference for an eight-hour workday. One production house later confirmed Padukone's non-involvement in a sequel due to an inability to reach a mutual agreement on arrangements.

Atluri's directorial venture, 'Vishwanath and Sons,' starring Suriya and Raveena Tandon, is scheduled for release on August 14. A sequel to 'Lucky Baskhar' is also planned but is still several years away.