The work hours in the film industry continue to stay in discussion since Deepika Padukone left Spirit and the Kalki 2898 AD sequel over her request for an eight-hour workday. Veteran actress Madhuri Dixit has now shared her views on the issue. Read on to know what she said!
Madhuri Dixit Calls Herself ‘Workaholic’ In Her Reaction To 8-Hr Shift Demand By Deepika Padukone
Speaking to ANI, Madhuri talked about her own long workdays on Mrs Deshpande. She said, “The thing is that when we did ‘Mrs Deshpande’, we were working 12-hour shifts every day, like maybe more sometimes…So, I think to each his own. I’m a workaholic. So for me, maybe it’s different, but if a woman has that power and can say, ‘okay, I want to work these many hours,’ then that’s her prerogative, and that’s her life. That’s how she wants to do it…Then more power to her.”
The debate began after reports said Deepika exited high-profile projects for asking for shorter shifts. She defended her choice in an interview with CNBC-TV18 and said, “By virtue of being a woman, if that’s coming across as being pushy or whatever, then so be it.” She also noted that male stars often work eight-hour days without criticism and pointed out Bollywood’s “disorganised” culture, where overwork is often mistaken for dedication.
Deepika Padukone’s stance has started wider conversations about work-life balance, gender bias and mental health in the industry. She argued that focused shorter shifts can improve performance and stressed the need for better support for new mothers returning to work. Some industry peers back her, while others see it as a lack of commitment.
Mandhuri Dixit’s Upcoming Project
Madhuri is also busy promoting her upcoming series Mrs Deshpande, directed by Nagesh Kukunoor. The show is a remake of the French thriller La Mante and follows a serial killer who agrees to help catch a copycat, but only if she works with her estranged son. The series is set to release on December 19 on JioHotstar.
