Smriti Irani, the actress-turned-politician, has weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding work hours in the entertainment industry, particularly in light of Deepika Padukone's recent request for an eight-hour workday. Irani, who is making a return to television after nearly two decades with "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2," addressed the issue in an exclusive interview with India Today.
Irani emphasized the importance of honoring commitments in the television industry, where delivering an episode every night is a significant responsibility. "You cannot say that the producer's commitment shall not be honoured," she stated. "Saying 'I don't feel like working today' is not acceptable professionally". However, she also suggested that the industry should explore new pathways to enhance its market value alongside creative value.
When questioned about Deepika Padukone's demand for an eight-hour shift and her reported exit from two major film projects, "Kalki 2898 AD - Part 2" and "Spirit," due to the inability to accommodate her request, Irani called it an "individual issue". Padukone's request has sparked a wider conversation about work-life balance, especially for working mothers in the film industry.
Addressing the question of whether limited work hours are a gender-centric issue, Irani pointed out the biological differences between men and women, particularly concerning pregnancy. She recounted her own experience of working through two pregnancies during the original "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi" shoot. "I worked through two pregnancies on this very set with a female producer," Irani said. "I was determined to make her show a success. It was my choice, and I can't expect others to make their decisions based on my work ethic".
Irani further emphasized her sense of responsibility and accountability towards her work. "If I don't turn up to work, 120 people don't get paid that day," she stated. "It's unfair to them. My approach to work is rooted in accountability and discipline".
The debate around Deepika Padukone's eight-hour shift demand has drawn reactions from various quarters. Some have supported her stance, emphasizing the need for work-life balance and questioning why male actors have enjoyed similar arrangements without facing criticism. Pakistani actor Iqra Aziz voiced her support for Padukone, stating that "A mother striving for work-life balance should be supported". Filmmaker Hansal Mehta also weighed in, highlighting the grueling nature of typical 12-hour shifts in the industry and their impact on mental and physical well-being.
Conversely, actress Priyamani suggested that actors sometimes need to adjust to the demands of the industry. Padukone herself addressed the controversy, pointing out the double standards in how male superstars with similar working arrangements are treated. She stated, "By virtue of being a woman, if that's coming across as being pushy or whatever, then so be it. But it is no secret that a lot of superstars, male superstars, in the Indian film industry, have been working for eight hours for years, and it's never made headlines".
