An old interview featuring Ranveer Singh discussing his views on working long hours has resurfaced, sparking renewed debate in the film industry about work-life balance. The actor's comments, made several years ago, have gained traction amidst his wife, Deepika Padukone's recent advocacy for an 8-hour workday, creating a contrasting viewpoint within the celebrity couple.
In the interview, Singh expressed his willingness to go the extra mile during film shoots, stating, "Karlo thodi si zyada shooting." This translates to, "Do a little more shooting." He implied that exceeding the standard 8-hour shift was acceptable, especially when the project demanded it. This perspective contrasts with Padukone's recent stance on the importance of regulated working hours and the normalization of overwork in the Indian film industry.
Padukone has been vocal about the need for a healthy work-life balance, emphasizing that "Eight hours of work a day is enough for the human body and mind". She has also implemented a strict 5-day, 8-hour work policy in her own office, including sufficient maternity and paternity breaks. Her advocacy stems from a belief that prioritizing well-being ultimately leads to better performance and a more sustainable work environment.
The divergence in viewpoints between Singh and Padukone has ignited discussions among fans and industry insiders. Some argue that Singh's perspective reflects the demanding nature of the entertainment industry, where long hours are often considered necessary to achieve creative excellence. Others support Padukone's stance, highlighting the importance of fair labor practices and the potential for burnout when individuals are consistently overworked.
Adding another layer to the conversation, director Aditya Dhar revealed that the team behind Singh's film Dhurandhar worked 16-hour days for over a year. Dhar praised the cast and crew's dedication, but this revelation further fueled the debate about the sustainability and ethics of such demanding work schedules.
Padukone's commitment to shorter working hours reportedly led to her departure from high-profile projects, including the sequel of Kalki 2898 AD and Sandeep Reddy Vanga's Spirit, because the makers were unable to meet her requirements. She has also spoken out against the double standards in the industry, noting that male actors have been working 8-hour shifts for years without facing criticism, while women are often labeled as "pushy" for demanding the same.
Despite their differing views on working hours, Singh has publicly supported Padukone's stance. At a recent event, he lauded her "bold stance on working hours" and praised her upcoming film with Atlee, further solidifying his support for his wife.
The contrasting opinions of Singh and Padukone have brought the issue of work-life balance in Bollywood to the forefront. It remains to be seen how this ongoing discussion will impact industry practices and whether a shift towards more regulated working hours is on the horizon.
