Radhika Apte supports Deepika Padukone's demand for fixed working hours
What's the story
The discussion over fixed working hours in Bollywood has become a hot topic since reports suggested that Deepika Padukone was dropped from Sandeep Reddy Vanga's Spirit for requesting structured schedules as a new mother. Actor Radhika Apte, who's a mother to a one-year-old, recently voiced her support for Padukone's demands.
Actor's perspective
Apte's stance on fixed working hours in Bollywood
Speaking to Hindustan Times, Apte said, "I will not be able to work unless the producers now agree to 12-hour shifts, and by 12 hours, I mean, including travel, makeup, and hair." "Otherwise, we are basically working for 16 hours as you're on set for a minimum of 14 hours, including your hair, makeup, and just a little bit of extended shift."
Non-negotiable terms
'I will not be able to work on...'
Apte stressed that fixed working hours are non-negotiable for her, as being away for 16 hours a day doesn't allow her to see her kid. She said, "You don't have weekly offs. Sometimes you don't have lunch breaks. So it's not possible to work that way for me." "I will not be able to work on most of the projects because a lot of people won't agree with this."
Actor's journey
Apte's personal experience with work-life balance
Recently, Apte returned to Mumbai to promote Saali Mohabbat, marking her first trip away from her daughter in a year. She admitted it was emotionally difficult but also gave her unexpected freedom. "I felt worried about her but it was great to be free and had this mini time off," she said. Despite constant opportunities post-childbirth, she revealed she chose to step away from work for now and has not signed anything yet. Meanwhile, Saali Mohabbat is streaming on Zee5.