Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Mar 7: Bollywood actors Kareena Kapoor Khan and Ananya Panday have defended Deepika Padukone’s demand for an eight-hour work shift, saying it is reasonable for actors, especially mothers, to discuss work hours with producers beforehand.

Kareena, in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, spoke about balancing work and parenting. She shared that while shooting for The Buckingham Murders, she made it clear she would return to her children, with husband Saif Ali Khan taking care of them in London. Commenting on Deepika’s demand, Kareena said, “If you are married and have children, as a woman, if you do not want to give that time, you should be able to say this is what I want… You have to be honest. Of course, a few days might go haywire, but there should be flexibility, otherwise it’s very difficult.”

Malayalam actor Kalyani Priyadarshan highlighted that work shifts in the Malayalam film industry have reduced from 16 hours to 12, stressing that cinema cannot be restricted to just six hours due to multiple requirements on set.

Ananya Panday also supported Deepika, noting, “I have worked with Deepika, and before she became a mother, she worked tirelessly with no complaints. Now she needs to be present with her child in the first two years. It’s okay to have a conversation with your producer to find a balance.”

Deepika’s eight-hour workday demand made headlines in 2025 when she reportedly exited Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit and the sequel to Kalki 2898 AD, citing the need for shorter work hours, a pay hike, and accommodations for her team. She later explained in Harper’s Bazaar India that eight hours is sufficient for the human mind and body and advocated for normalising bringing children on set.