Amid the ongoing controversy surrounding Deepika Padukone's departure from Sandeep Reddy Vanga's "Spirit," Saif Ali Khan has voiced his support for actors prioritizing family time, echoing sentiments previously expressed by Padukone herself. The debate ignited after reports surfaced that Padukone exited "Spirit" due to disagreements over her demands for an eight-hour workday, a request deemed "unreasonable" by some and a reflection of a need for better work-life balance by others.
Saif Ali Khan, speaking at the Arab Media Summit, shared his perspective on success, emphasizing the importance of being present for his family. He articulated a sentiment that resonates with many working parents, stating, "I hate coming home and seeing the kids already asleep. That's not success." For Khan, true success lies in the ability to decline work commitments to spend quality time with his loved ones. He further elaborated, "Success is being able to say, 'No, I need to go home now to catch that half hour with them.'" He highlighted the significance of simple, everyday moments, such as "cooking pasta together, having a meal, and focusing on the kids," as the "real glue of life." Khan also mentioned that he dedicates his children's school holidays entirely to family, considering that time "sacred." He also humorously noted the responsibilities he feels at his age, saying, "I'm at that crazy age where I have to call both my mum and my children. You think it's just your parents you have to check on — then you realize it's both."
Khan's remarks arrive amidst a heated discussion within the film industry regarding work-life balance, particularly for actors who are also parents. Padukone's reported request for limited working hours has sparked debate about the feasibility and fairness of such demands in the demanding world of Bollywood. While some have criticized Padukone's requests as "unprofessional," others, including Ajay Devgn, have defended her stance. Devgn stated that "honest filmmakers" would not have any problems with actors, especially mothers, working eight- or nine-hour shifts.
The controversy surrounding "Spirit" arose when Padukone reportedly requested an eight-hour workday, a substantial fee of ₹20 crore, a profit-sharing deal, and expressed reluctance to deliver her dialogues in Telugu. These demands were allegedly rejected, leading to her replacement by Triptii Dimri. Following this, reports outlining the plot of Vanga's film, including details of "bold scenes," were leaked. Vanga indirectly blamed Padukone for the leak, accusing her of betraying his trust and undermining his project. He questioned whether her actions aligned with her feminist principles.
Saif Ali Khan's emphasis on family time adds another layer to the ongoing conversation. His words highlight the emotional toll that long work hours can take on actors and their families. By prioritizing family time and advocating for a more balanced approach to work, Khan, like Padukone, is challenging the industry's norms and encouraging a more sustainable and fulfilling lifestyle for those in the limelight.
On the professional front, Saif Ali Khan is slated to appear in the upcoming action thriller "Race 4" and a biopic directed by Rahul Dholakia. He also has projects with Priyadarshan and Hansal Mehta in the pipeline. Meanwhile, Deepika Padukone is reportedly in talks to reunite with Shah Rukh Khan in the film "King."
