Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Jul 9: Renowned filmmaker Anurag Basu has extended support to Deepika Padukone amid the ongoing debate over work hours in the film industry. Deepika's reported exit from Sandeep Reddy Vanga's upcoming film Spirit sparked controversy after it was speculated that she demanded an 8-hour workday, a share in the film’s profits, and requested not to deliver dialogues in Telugu.

Speaking to Firstpost, Basu said, “I also don’t like long-hour shifts at work. My actors never complain about long hours or stress at work. So, I absolutely agree with what Deepika Padukone had to say.”

He elaborated on his filmmaking style, stating, “I want my actors to be very happy on set and know their character well. I don’t give too much information to them before the shoot begins. Let them discover their roles—that’s the method I have followed for years.”

Deepika, who was initially cast opposite Prabhas in Spirit, was later replaced by Triptii Dimri after reported creative differences with the makers. Several actors including Sonakshi Sinha, Neha Dhupia, and Vikrant Massey have voiced support for fair work hours in the industry following the controversy.

Meanwhile, Anurag Basu’s latest release Metro… In Dino, a spiritual successor to Life in a… Metro (2007), continues to earn praise for its storytelling and ensemble performances. The film, featuring stars like Anupam Kher, Neena Gupta, and Aditya Roy Kapur, has garnered Rs 22.15 cr within five days of release.