Actress Yami Gautam has spoken in support of Deepika Padukone after the actress was criticised for requesting an eight-hour workday. In a recent interview, Yami said that Deepika’s demand is not unreasonable and has been a common practice in the industry for years.
Speaking to Times Now, she said, “This is something that has been happening for decades. There are actors who shoot for only eight hours a day, shoot five days a week, they don’t do night shoots. This is pre-decided among the director, producer and the actor.”
Yami Gautam Speaks Up For Deepika Padukone
Yami explained that the demand for a time cap is nothing new but depends on the project and the people involved. She said, “As much as we would like a time cap like any other field, ours is a little different. Locations, permissions, other actors, technicians – there are so many factors.”
She further added that every production team works differently, and it’s a matter of understanding between the actor, director and producer. She said, “This whole concept of time cap, for me, is very subjective to an actor, a producer and a director collaboration and the understanding.”
Yami also highlighted the challenges faced by women in the industry, especially those balancing work and motherhood. She shared, “Whether a woman is working or a homemaker, every mother is special and does everything she can for her child.”
Taking a clear stand for Deepika, Yami questioned why female actors are singled out for something that has long existed in the industry. She added, “Why is it that if a female actor has said, it has become an issue? At the end of the day, we are human beings making art and emotions in very odd circumstances.”
Deepika Padukone’s 8-Hour Shift Row
The discussion began after reports claimed that Deepika Padukone walked out of Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit due to her request for an eight-hour workday. The actress reportedly wanted to ensure she could spend time with her daughter, Dua. However, when her request couldn’t be accommodated, she decided to exit the project.
Later, reports suggested that Deepika also stepped away from Nag Ashwin’s Kalki 2 for similar reasons. The debate quickly turned into a larger conversation about work-life balance and fairness in the film industry schedules. Deepika’s call for an eight-hour shift seems to be striking a chord across the industry and maybe, it’s finally gaining traction.
Meanwhile, Yami Gautam is all set to appear in her latest film Haq. The legal drama inspired by the Shah Bano Case hits theatres tomorrow (November 7).

