Sonakshi Sinha opens up Deepika Padukone’s 8-hour workday demand: 'It also depends on the requirements…'

Following the birth of her daughter Dua, actress Deepika Padukone's request for an 8-hour work shift has sparked a significant debate within the industry regarding the working conditions of actresses after they become mothers. Amidst the ongoing discussion sparked by Deepika Padukone's departure from Spirit, Sonakshi Sinha has also shared her thoughts on the matter, expressing her support for a standardized 8-hour workday.

In a chat with IndiaToday.in, Sonakshi said she fully backs Deepika’s stance. "I’m all for it," she said when asked about an 8-hour workday.

Drawing on her own experiences in the industry, she added, “I’ve worked with actors who don’t work beyond eight hours. So, I don’t see why it should be any different for female actors as well."

Even though she supports the idea, Sonakshi admitted that some adjustments might be needed depending on the filming requirements. “It also depends on the requirements of the project and all. You can schedule it in a way where you accommodate those hours. There are a lot of other things to shoot with other people, which you can finish off in the same time. I think it’s very achievable," she explained.

Having spent 15 years in the industry, the Dabangg actor emphasized the significance of personal well-being. He mentioned that he had been working for 15 years, and acknowledged that some actors have worked for a shorter or longer duration than him, which was acceptable. However, he stressed the need for personal time beyond the shoots.

Sonakshi also pointed out that long work hours could affect preparation, especially when fitness was a key part of the role. She explained that if she were working on a film that required her to be extremely fit, she would need those two hours to go to the gym, but a 12-14 hour workday would make that impossible.

I’ve worked with actors who don’t work beyond eight hours. So, I don’t see why it should be any different for female actors as well

- Sonakshi Sinha (as told to India Today on Deepika Padukone's case about 8-hour shift demands)

However, she made it clear that she isn't entirely inflexible. "If I don’t need to do that, I’ll give you 12 hours happily. I’ll give you 10 hours happily. But where it’s not required, then I’m sure adjustments can be made."

Deepika Padukone's recent departure from Sandeep Reddy Vanga's Spirit has drawn considerable media attention and speculation. Reports indicate that she sought an 8-hour workday, substantial compensation, and profit-sharing, which reportedly did not align with the filmmaker's vision. Although Deepika has not directly commented on the exit, her recent social media posts about remaining true to herself suggest her focus as a new mother.

Sandeep Reddy Vanga responded on X with a cryptic post, accusing an unnamed actor of breaking trust and playing games. “#dirtyPRgames." Without naming Deepika, he suggested someone had put down a younger actor while allegedly leaking story details. His statement read: “You didn’t get it. You won’t get it. You will never get it."

Meanwhile, Sonakshi is preparing for her upcoming release, Nikita Roy. The thriller, also starring Paresh Rawal, Arjun Rampal, and Suhail Nayyar, is scheduled to be released in theaters on June 27, 2025.