Rani Mukerji Backs Deepika Padukone's Call for 8-Hour Bollywood Workdays

In a recent interview, acclaimed Bollywood actor Rani Mukerji has expressed support for fellow star Deepika Padukone's reported advocacy for standardized 8-hour work shifts in the industry. Mukerji, who was honored with the Best Actress award at the 71st National Film Awards last month, shared insights into how she has managed the demands of work and motherhood throughout her career.

Mukerji recalled her experience filming the 2018 movie "Hichki" when her daughter Adira was just 14 months old. She described how she would leave home at 6:30 AM to shoot her scenes by 8 AM, and then wrap up by 12:30 PM to avoid the heavy traffic. Mukerji emphasized that such flexible arrangements have long been the norm, based on mutual understanding between actors and their production teams.

The ongoing debate around work hours in Bollywood was sparked by recent reports of Padukone pushing for an 8-hour workday model. Many in the industry have expressed support for more structured schedules, arguing that it would lead to better working conditions and improved well-being for all professionals. Mukerji noted that the discussion is not just about the number of hours, but also about ensuring fair treatment and respect for all.

As the conversation continues to evolve, industry insiders are considering how changing expectations around work hours could impact not just actors, but also crew members and other staff. Mukerji's reflections on her own journey provide a valuable perspective on the realities of balancing the demands of a high-profile career with the responsibilities of motherhood.