Anubhav Sinha Defends Deepika Padukone's 8-Hour Shift Demand: 'If You're Not Okay with It, Don't Work with That Actor'
The debate over fixed working hours in Bollywood has resurfaced after filmmaker Anubhav Sinha addressed the controversy surrounding Deepika Padukone's reported request for shorter shifts following motherhood. Calling the uproar 'overblown,' Anubhav argues that such matters should be resolved privately between actors and filmmakers, rather than becoming public disputes.
In a recent interview, Anubhav shared his straightforward view on actors setting boundaries. 'If an actor wants to work six hours a day and you're not okay with it, then don't work with that actor. It's as simple as that,' he said, emphasizing that collaboration in the film industry should be based on mutual agreement.
Anubhav recalled his experience working with the late Rishi Kapoor on the 2018 film 'Mulk,' explaining how flexibility and dialogue helped avoid conflict. Rishi had informed him that he preferred not to shoot at night, and they negotiated and agreed on a limited number of night shoots. Although the count increased slightly during filming, the issue was handled amicably. Anubhav noted that it was delightful to work with Rishi, and scheduling adjustments were never a problem.
Turning to Deepika's reported eight-hour shift request, Anubhav said he does not believe in gossip and has not worked closely with her. However, after speaking with people who have collaborated with the 'Om Shanti Om' star, he said he had only received positive feedback. 'They said she's a delightful actress to work with,' he shared.
Anubhav further argued that if any actor's demands seem unreasonable, producers and directors always have the choice not to proceed with them. 'Why create a controversy?' he asked, comparing professional disagreements to household issues that need not be publicly broadcast. According to him, disputes over schedules or conditions should remain between the concerned parties.
Anubhav also discussed the physical demands of acting, noting that performers appear on massive cinema screens, where even minor signs of fatigue become noticeable. He added that such concerns are practical rather than controversial.
The controversy around Deepika Padukone and director Sandeep Reddy Vanga emerged when she exited the pan-India film 'Spirit,' starring Prabhas, reportedly due to disagreements over creative terms and a request for an eight-hour workday. Her departure led to Triptii Dimri replacing her, sparking online debate about professionalism, work-hour limits, and remuneration in high-budget projects.
Anubhav Sinha recently directed 'Assi,' a courtroom drama starring Taapsee Pannu and featuring an ensemble cast including Kani Kusruti, Revathy, Manoj Pahwa, Kumud Mishra, and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub. Made on an estimated budget of around ₹30 crore, the film received praise for its performances and socially relevant theme, but underperformed at the box office, collecting roughly ₹7 crore in its first week.
Meanwhile, Deepika Padukone, who was last seen in 'Kalki 2898 AD,' has a film with Shah Rukh Khan. Deepika is also slated to star alongside Allu Arjun in an upcoming film directed by Atlee.
