Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Nov 2: Riding high on the success of his latest film Thamma, starring Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna, director Aditya Sarpotdar has spoken out on the growing discussion around fixed working hours in the film industry. Sharing his insights in an interview, Sarpotdar emphasised that clarity and discipline in work timings are essential not only for productivity but also for the health and creativity of the crew.

Sarpotdar noted that the film industry often expects people to work without limits, calling it both physically and mentally exhausting. “It’s often taken for granted that everyone will work round the clock, which is not sustainable,” he said. The director believes that a 12-hour shift is practical for film shoots but anything beyond that is unfair. He cited instances where technicians and artists barely got time to go home between schedules, labelling such practices as “deeply unjust.”

Responding to Deepika Padukone’s recent demand for fixed eight-hour working days, Sarpotdar expressed support for her reasoning, urging the industry to look at the issue with empathy. “Actors have to maintain a specific appearance on camera. When someone like Deepika raises the issue, we must understand where it’s coming from,” he said. He added that directors have a responsibility to ensure actors’ comfort. Recalling a personal experience, he shared, “When Paresh Rawal ji was advised rest due to health issues, we adjusted his schedule. It’s our duty to take care of our artists.”

Contrastingly, Sarpotdar praised actress Rashmika Mandanna’s dedication on the sets of Thamma. “Rashmika works for 12 hours straight and never complains. Maybe she’s at a phase where she can manage it, but that doesn’t mean one rule fits all,” he explained. “The key is mutual understanding between an actor and director — only then can they create magic together.”

Aditya Sarpotdar’s Thamma blends romance, comedy, and horror, starring Ayushmann Khurrana as Alok, a journalist whose life changes after being saved by Tadaka, a vampire played by Rashmika Mandanna. The story follows Alok’s transformation and his battle against ancient evil to protect humanity, with Nawazuddin Siddiqui appearing in a pivotal role.

The film, combining supernatural intrigue with emotional depth, continues to draw praise for its inventive storytelling and strong performances.