Deepika HITS out: calls Bollywood disorganized, reveals male stars taking 8-hour shifts never made headlines

Deepika Padukone recently found herself in the middle of a heated industry debate after reports claimed she walked out of Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit and Nag Ashwin’s Kalki 2898 AD sequel over her demand for an 8-hour workday. The rumour mill spun fast, with claims that producers found her conditions “unacceptable.” But Deepika has now spoken up, setting the record straight.

Addressing the buzz in a recent interview, she said, “By virtue of being a woman, if that’s coming across as pushy or whatever, then so be it. But it is no secret that a lot of superstars, male superstars, in the Indian Film Industry, have been working for 8 hours for years and it’s never made headlines!” Her words cut through the noise, pointing out the double standards that continue to exist in showbiz.

While the Indian film scene is termed an industry, we have never worked as one. We are very disorganised.

- Deepika Padukone (as told to CNBC TV 18)

“We’re Called an Industry, But We Don’t Work Like One”

Deepika didn’t stop there. She reflected on the chaotic work culture in Indian cinema, admitting that while it’s often referred to as an “industry,” it lacks structure. “While the Indian film scene is termed an industry, we have never worked as one. We are very disorganised,” she said, highlighting the need for better systems and more humane work practices.

Her take resonated with many in the entertainment world, especially those who’ve spoken about burnout and long, unregulated shooting hours.

Moving On with King and Beyond

Following her exit, Vyjayanthi Movies issued a statement saying they were “unable to find a partnership” with Deepika and that the film required “commitment and much more.” Soon after, Deepika subtly responded with her next announcement, King, co-starring Shah Rukh Khan and directed by Siddharth Anand.

In her Instagram post, she wrote about how the “experience of making a movie” and the “people around” matter more than its success.

Deepika will also feature in Atlee’s upcoming action spectacle AA22xA6 alongside Allu Arjun, marking yet another major pan-India collaboration.

Despite the chatter, Deepika’s clarity on work-life balance and professionalism has earned her both respect and renewed admiration. In a space often clouded by perceptions, her calm but confident stance feels like a much-needed reset for how the industry defines “commitment.”