Ishita Weighs In on the Controversy Surrounding Deepika’s 8-Hour Workday Demand

The film industry continues to discuss Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone’s demand for an eight-hour workday. Actress Ishita Dutta has now come forward to support this demand, arguing that an eight-hour workday in the film industry is not unreasonable. She emphasizes that this is particularly significant for women striving to balance their professional lives with motherhood.

Ishita, who is currently in the spotlight for the film *Drishyam: The Conclusion* and is a mother of two, stated in an interview with *The Free Press Journal* that it is unfair to criticize an actor for requesting specific working hours. While a production house may choose whether or not to accommodate such a request, framing the demand as "unreasonable" is where the real issue lies.

According to Ishita, while some individuals may feel comfortable working 12 to 15 hours, others might prefer shorter shifts. Whether or not to accept an eight-hour workday is a decision that rests with the production house; however, there is no need to stir up unnecessary controversy over it.

Reflecting on her own experience as a mother, Ishita noted that once you have a child, you come to realize the immense amount of time and effort that parenthood requires.

The actress shared that she, too, has worked long hours in the past, but noted that some producers, understanding her situation, allowed her to wrap up her work earlier.

Why is Deepika’s demand a subject of discussion?

The debate surrounding Deepika Padukone’s request for an eight-hour workday gained momentum in 2025. Reports suggest that her departure from projects such as director Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s *Spirit* and the sequel to *Kalki 2898 AD* stemmed from disagreements over professional terms, including working hours.

This has sparked a broader conversation within the film industry regarding working hours. Several other actors, including Vikrant Massey, Saba Azad, and Amrita Puri, have expressed their support for Deepika’s stance.

Source: NDTV