The discussion regarding extended working hours in the Indian film industry is becoming increasingly prominent—and actor Rashmika Mandanna has recently added her voice to the conversation. Her remarks come in the wake of various reactions following reports of Deepika Padukone’s supposed disagreement with director Sandeep Reddy Vanga over fixed work hours for the now-canceled Spirit.

In response to the controversy, Mandanna emphasized the necessity of clear communication prior to committing to a film during an interview with Mojo Story.

“Currently, the entire nation is engaged in a debate about flexible working hours, but that should be a topic for teams to discuss and determine what suits them best. It’s about their individual choices,” she stated, highlighting the importance of mutual understanding within the team.

The Animal actor also shared insights from her experiences across different industries, noting the variations in shooting schedules by region. “I work in various industries, such as the South – Telugu, Kannada, or Tamil, where we typically work from 9 am to 6 pm. In Hindi cinema, the shifts are from 9 am to 9 pm. I am adaptable to both because it aligns with the requirements of my films,” she explained.

However, she did not hesitate to address the more extreme aspects of filming schedules. “Some projects may start at 9 am and extend to 9 pm, but they can continue into the next day, resulting in work periods of up to 36 hours. There are even more severe situations where you might work for 2-3 days straight without returning home,” Mandanna disclosed.

Having collaborated with Vanga on the Ranbir Kapoor film Animal, Mandanna recognized the essential need for realistic expectations, particularly during high-pressure shoots. Most recently, Rashmika Mandanna appeared in Kuberaa, which was released on June 20.