Kajol has weighed in on the recent debate surrounding work-life balance in Bollywood, sparked by reports of Deepika Padukone's alleged exit from Sandeep Reddy Vanga's "Spirit" due to disagreements over working hours. While Padukone reportedly sought an 8-hour workday to accommodate her responsibilities as a new mother, Kajol shared her perspective, emphasizing that she has always prioritized work-life balance throughout her career.
In a recent interview, Kajol stated that she never worked for extended periods of 20 or 30 hours straight. She mentioned that since the beginning of her career in the 1990s, she was clear about the amount of work she would take on. She also said that her mother supported her decision. Kajol also said that she was one of the few actors who worked on one film at a time. She would complete one project before starting another, setting her apart from contemporaries who juggled multiple films simultaneously.
Kajol recalled that she had the same discussion about work hours after the birth of her first child, Nysa, with her husband Ajay Devgn. She noted that most producers were understanding and didn't hesitate to accommodate her needs. Sharing her own experiences, Kajol said that producers were often supportive during personal challenges, allowing her to leave sets early when necessary. She cited examples from the shoots of "U Me Aur Hum" (2008), when her father was in the hospital and Nysa was two years old, and "Fanaa" (2006), where everyone worked comfortably to accommodate her needs. Ajay Devgn, being the producer of "U Me Aur Hum", ensured that Kajol could go home early to visit her father in the hospital.
The debate around working hours in Bollywood isn't new. The Indian film industry is known for its long and demanding shoots, often stretching to 12-16 hours a day. While Indian labor laws restrict work to 48 hours a week, these regulations don't apply to film sets. This can lead to technicians, junior artists, and even top stars struggling to balance their personal and professional lives.
Deepika Padukone's reported demand for an 8-hour workday has ignited a broader discussion about creating more inclusive and accommodating working conditions, especially for women and new mothers. Several industry figures have voiced their opinions on the matter.
Ajay Devgn has also expressed his support for eight-hour shifts for new mothers. He stated that most filmmakers would not have a problem with it and that the industry is increasingly understanding of the need for shorter working hours. Other actors like Saif Ali Khan, Mani Ratnam, and Barun Sobti have also joined the conversation, advocating for better work-life balance in the industry.
Conversely, some have deemed such demands unprofessional. Despite the criticism, many filmmakers and actors are supportive of the need for better work-life balance within the industry.
Kajol is currently working on several projects, including the horror thriller "Maa," directed by Vishal Furia, the action thriller "Maharagini," Karan Johar's "Sarzameen," and the second season of her series "The Trial." She described her experience of working on back-to-back movies as interesting, stating that she feels she has worked more in her 33rd year in the industry than in previous years.
Kajol's emphasis on work-life balance reflects a growing awareness of the importance of mental health and personal well-being in the demanding world of Bollywood. Her experiences and insights contribute to the ongoing conversation about creating a more sustainable and equitable environment for everyone in the film industry.
