Radhika Apte has recently revealed that she has had "multiple conversations and arguments" due to her refusal to work long shifts in the film industry. In an interview with Filmfare, the actress shared her thoughts on creating a more parent-friendly environment in the industry, particularly concerning working hours.
Apte stated that she believes working hours need to change, emphasizing that "You can't expect someone to go an entire week without seeing their child". She expressed surprise at the amount of resistance she has faced, saying, "You'll be surprised at how much one has to fight. I find it quite baffling". Addressing the suggestion of bringing a nanny to set, Apte firmly stated, "I'm sorry, but that's really not the answer".
The actress has established strict working policies, which she considers non-negotiable when signing a project. Apte revealed, "I can't work beyond 12 hours. And that includes everything from travel, hair, makeup, and the shoot itself". She also insists on weekly days off and ideally prefers not to work more than five days a week. "I've started putting my foot down, and a lot of people haven't liked it," Apte confessed. She clarified that exceptions could be made for smaller films where the project's functionality genuinely depends on it.
Apte's stance echoes the sentiments of other actresses, such as Deepika Padukone, who have advocated for fixed working hours, especially for working mothers. This has sparked a larger conversation within the industry about the challenges of balancing work and family life, with many calling for more reasonable and sustainable working conditions.
Apte, who is married to Benedict Taylor and a mother herself, highlighted the importance of fixed hours, stating, "You can't be away for 16 hours, otherwise you will never get to see your child. You don't have weekly offs. Sometimes you don't have lunch breaks. So, it's not possible to work that way for me". She acknowledged that adhering to these principles might lead to fewer project opportunities but emphasized the need to prioritize family time and well-being.
Despite concerns that motherhood might negatively impact her career, Apte has had two releases since giving birth: Sister Midnight and Saali Mohabbat. However, she has decided to take a break until April, having declined all projects until then. "A lot of work came to me this year, but I'm not taking any work till April. At the moment, I've said no to everything that has come as I'm going to take on work only after April," she explained.
Radhika Apte's firm stance on working hours reflects a growing movement within the film industry towards more sustainable and family-friendly practices. By prioritizing reasonable working conditions, she hopes to create a better balance for herself and pave the way for other working parents in the industry.
