Mumbai: Bollywood has been abuzz following Deepika Padukone’s decision to exit Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s film Spirit after the director reportedly declined her request for a fixed eight‑hour workday. The debate has sparked significant backlash, with several prominent actors rallying behind Deepika, particularly as she embarks on her journey as a working mother .
On June 9, Neha Dhupia took to Instagram to express her support, emphasizing the broader concern of maternal well‑being in the industry. In her story, she wrote:
“For work‑life balance to go beyond conversations, new moms need practical support and consideration. Instead, we often get shamed or sidelined. As a working mom, I support @deepikapadukone’s reasonable request for fair and considerate working hours.”
Dhupia highlighted the broader stigma that mothers face when setting professional boundaries—a sentiment she believes is often dismissed or criticized.
This sentiment echoes earlier remarks from industry veterans. Ajay Devgn voiced his endorsement, noting that honest filmmakers shouldn’t hesitate to work within an eight‑to‑nine‑hour schedule when accommodating such demands. Renowned director Mani Ratnam echoed this, describing Deepika’s request as “a rightful demand” and stressing the importance of acknowledging and planning accordingly when casting actors with specific professional needs .
Why this matters
Deepika, a newly minted mother to Dua Padukone Singh, has become the face of a growing movement calling for structured, humane work schedules in Bollywood. Her exit from Spirit has reignited conversations on work-life balance and parental accommodations in mainstream Indian cinema.
What’s next
The industry may see more dialogue on set timings, especially surrounding pregnant and new mothers.
Depth actors, producers, and filmmakers are likely to reassess existing norms and possibly revise set regulations.
As more voices join—like collaborators such as Pankaj Tripathi expressing the importance of saying “no” to excessive schedules—it could spark tangible reforms.
In supporting Deepika, Neha Dhupia adds momentum to an evolving Bollywood narrative—one that values personal boundaries, family life, and respectful working environments.
