After Deepika Padukone raised concerns about overworking in Bollywood, Radhika Apte has joined the discussion, calling for shorter work hours and a more parent-friendly film industry. The Raat Akeli Hai actress recently spoke about her experiences and how she is setting new boundaries in her career.
Speaking to Filmfare, Radhika said, “I’ll change the working hours to begin with. You can’t expect someone to go an entire week without seeing their child. I’ve had multiple conversations and arguments over refusing to do long shifts. You’ll be surprised at how much one has to fight. People say have a nanny and let them come on set. I’m sorry, but that’s really not the answer.”
Radhika Apte Reveals Her Non-Negotiables When Signing A Film
Radhika explained her non-negotiables when signing films. She insists on a maximum 12-hour shift, including travel, hair, makeup and shooting. She said, “If my travel takes two hours, then the shift has to be planned accordingly. Weekly offs are important, and I ideally wouldn’t work more than five days a week.”
She stressed that these rules are crucial for her well-being and performance. Radhika added, “I’ve started putting my foot down, and a lot of people haven’t liked it.”
What Deepika Padukone Had Said
Radhika’s stance reflects Deepika Padukone’s earlier call for an eight-hour workday in Bollywood. Deepika argued that overworking is normalised in the industry and often mistaken for dedication. She said, “Optimal performance is only possible when a person is healthy.”
Deepika pointed out that many male actors have worked eight-hour days without criticism. She framed her request as a matter of dignity and systemic reform, not privilege. Despite this pushback affecting projects leading to her exit from Spirit and Kalki 2898 AD sequel, she remained firm in her approach.
About Radhika Apte – Personal And Professional Front
Radhika welcomed her first child in December 2024 with husband Benedict Taylor. The couple got married in 2012 and splits their time between London and Mumbai.
On the work front, Radhika recently appeared in Saali Mohabbat, a mystery thriller directed by Tisca Chopra. She also had a special appearance in Nawazuddin Siddiqui‘s Raat Akeli Hai: The Bansal Murders.
