Since Deepika Padukone was removed from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit due to her request for an eight-hour workday, a discussion about work-life balance in Bollywood has emerged. While many have expressed their support for the actress, filmmaker Suneel Darshan has stated that Deepika’s demand for an 8-hour work shift is “unreal”.

Darshan recently spoke to the news agency IANS, where he mentioned that if any actor requests an 8-hour shift, the producer should obtain a written agreement that they will be actively working during that time.

“The producer should first get from her in writing that for the 8 hours she is on set, she will be delivering shots. If she only manages to provide shots for 4 hours instead of 8, the producer will be grateful,” he remarked.

The filmmaker further described Deepika’s request as “unreal” and added, “I believe one should collaborate only with those who are more passionate about your film than you are.” He also reminded the actress that no one is irreplaceable, stating, “There was a time when Deepika was not part of the industry. There are many new talents available.”

For those unaware, the conversation about work-life balance in Bollywood began after Sandeep Reddy Vanga dismissed Deepika Padukone from the Prabhas film Spirit earlier this year. Reports indicate that her requests, which included eight-hour workdays, a substantial salary, and a share of the film’s profits, were not well received by director Vanga. As a new mother, Deepika is reportedly trying to find a balance between her professional and personal life by reducing her working hours.

Numerous celebrities, such as Vikrant Massey, Rashmika Mandanna, and Anurag Basu, have voiced their support for Deepika amid this ongoing debate.

“Currently, the entire country is discussing flexible hours, but that conversation should happen within teams to determine what works best for them. These are personal choices,” Rashmika recently stated during an interview with Mojo Story.