Kunal Kemmu joins Bollywood's work-life debate, highlights pressure on producers
What's the story
Bollywood actor Kunal Kemmu recently opened up about the ongoing debate over working hours in the film industry. His comments come after Deepika Padukone's reported demand for eight-hour shifts for actors, which led to her exit from two projects. Speaking on a podcast hosted by Soha Ali Khan, Kemmu emphasized that professionals should accept the nature of their work and its demands.
Work-life balance
'You can't say you want to get paid more...': Kemmu
Kemmu said, "As adults, when we grow up, we also choose what we want to become in life." "Once you sign up for something, you need to understand that it comes with certain expectations." He further noted that many people expect the rewards of a profession without being willing to accept its demands. "You can't say in the middle of it that you want to get paid more and work less because now you feel like doing something else."
Work culture
'Even when we talk about Gen Z...'
Kemmu also addressed generational differences in work culture. He said, "Even when we talk about Gen Z and say they don't want to work as much as millennials did, it's also about expectations." "People want the lifestyle, time to relax, go on exploration trips, but then they also complain if someone who works 12 hours earns more." "If someone is not going on holiday, that's also criticized."
Career advice
Produce your own projects, Kemmu suggests to actors
Kemmu suggested that actors who want more control over their schedules could consider producing their own projects. He said, "You can work for eight hours or even four hours if you want, but then become the producer, put in your own money, and take that decision yourself." "If you are the boss and decide to work for two hours a day, you'll realize that the film won't finish on time and the project will cost much more."
Motherhood
'You don't become an accidental mother'
The conversation also touched on the challenges of starting families during peak career years. Kemmu said such life decisions require planning and come with consequences. "But motherhood is usually something you plan. It doesn't happen accidentally. You don't become an accidental mother." "You have to plan it right; your plan can't affect the way the world is working." He clarified that this issue isn't gender-specific, saying, "This applies to men as well."
Industry impact
Padukone's exit from projects due to 8-hour shift demand
Padukone's reported demand for an eight-hour workday led to her exit from two major projects, Spirit and the sequel to Kalki 2898 AD. In an interview with Brut India, she clarified her position, saying, "I don't think what I am asking for is ridiculously unfair... I am not the first one who has asked for something like this." She added that many male actors have been working on eight-hour shifts for years without it making headlines.