Rajendra Chawla Calls 8-Hour Shift Demands 'Chochle' in Bollywood
Veteran actor Rajendra Chawla has strongly criticized the recent push for 8-hour work shifts in Bollywood. He labeled such demands as unnecessary "chochle" or nonsense. Chawla argued that the film industry operates on long hours, and those who cannot adapt should leave.
Chawla's Harsh Early Days in the Industry
During an interview on Bollywood Bubble's YouTube channel, Chawla revisited his own journey. He described how actors in his time faced extreme hardships. They had to change clothes behind trees and sleep in rooms filled with insects. Often, they only had rugs to lie on, with no proper beds or air-conditioned spaces.
Chawla contrasted this with today's comforts. He noted that modern actors enjoy vanity vans, personal entourages, and amenities like fruits and personalized bedsheets. He emphasized that these improvements make current demands seem trivial.
The Ongoing Debate Over Work Hours
The debate started when actor Deepika Padukone demanded 8-hour work shifts. This request has divided the Hindi film industry. Many veterans, including Chawla, have spoken against it. They believe the industry's nature requires flexibility and long hours.
Chawla explained that daily soaps now require 22-25 minutes of content. This volume makes fixed shifts impractical. He stated, "If you entered this race, then you have to run according to it." He advised those seeking regular hours to opt for corporate jobs instead.
Responses from Other Actors
Deepika Padukone defended her stance in an interview with Brut India. She argued that male actors have long worked such hours without scrutiny. She attributed the media focus on her demand to her gender.
Other female actors shared their perspectives. Rani Mukerji discussed balancing motherhood with her career. She mentioned breastfeeding her daughter while filming and negotiating hours with producers. Madhuri Dixit acknowledged her own workaholic nature but supported Deepika's right to set boundaries.
Chawla's comments highlight a generational clash in Bollywood. They reflect ongoing tensions between traditional practices and modern calls for better work-life balance.
