The debate over eight-hour shifts in Bollywood
The industry is buzzing over Deepika Padukone’s request for eight-hour shooting shifts, with a mix of reactions pouring in from actors, choreographers, and filmmakers. After choreographer Farah Khan publicly commented on the matter, the conversation gained momentum, triggering a broader discussion about work hours, maternity, and on-set logistics. While some support more flexible wraps, others emphasize production needs and timing.
Rani Mukerji’s personal perspective on balancing motherhood and shoots
Rani Mukerji weighed in with her own experience to illustrate how actors juggle parenting with demanding schedules. In a conversation with ANI, she recalled the time she shot for Hichki when her daughter Adira was only 14 months old. She explained that she was breastfeeding, which required careful planning around shoots. To manage that, she would pump milk before leaving for the set, typically around 6:30 am, so she could begin shooting by 8 am. The travel from home to the Juhu set took roughly two hours, and her unit and director organized the day so the crew could wrap in about six to seven hours, allowing her to be back home by around 3 pm before city traffic worsened.
“I finished the film this way,” she shared, underscoring the practical steps taken to balance work and motherhood. Rani’s account highlights the kinds of logistical challenges that come with long shoots, especially when caring for a very young child.
Eight-hour shifts: a broader concern beyond acting
Rani emphasized that the issue transcends one project or one profession. The question of longer or shorter on-set hours is a cross-industry concern, shaped by producer comfort, location feasibility, and safety considerations. She noted that if producers are open to shorter wraps, shoots can be restructured to finish sooner; if not, staying within a certain schedule may become a non-negotiable condition. In her view, the industry isn’t about coercion but about mutual agreement between talent and production on what is feasible.
The wider industry response
Public and industry voices are divided. Some colleagues advocate for more parent-friendly policies and flexible call times, while others worry about the practicalities of filmmaking—budget, location logistics, and ensuring that creative goals aren’t compromised. The eight-hour shift debate has prompted producers to rethink planning, with a growing call for clearer communication about schedules, breaks, and accommodations for caregivers on set.
What this means for actors and future productions
Rani’s reflections remind aspiring actors and industry professionals that effective planning and openness to dialogue can coexist with high-quality cinema. The key lies in transparent conversations about work hours, realistic call times, and support systems for parents on set. Such approaches can foster a healthier work environment without undermining the demands of production.
Conclusion
The Deepika Padukone eight-hour shift discussion has sparked a valuable dialogue about work-life balance in Bollywood. Rani Mukerji’s personal experience offers a practical glimpse into how motherhood can be managed alongside demanding filming schedules. As the conversation evolves, the aim should be humane, collaborative scheduling that respects both the integrity of the project and the well-being of actors and their families.
