Bollywood icon Madhuri Dixit has shared her perspective on the heated industry debate surrounding the demand for regulated 8-hour work shifts, a discussion ignited by Deepika Padukone's reported exit from a major film. The veteran actress emphasized that the choice of working hours should be a personal prerogative for every artist.
The Spark: Deepika's Exit Ignites Industry Conversation
The controversy began when it was reported that top actress Deepika Padukone demanded an 8-hour work schedule for the upcoming film 'Spirit', directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga and starring Prabhas. Her subsequent departure from the project fueled widespread discourse across Bollywood about the grueling nature of long shooting hours and the critical need for a sustainable work-life balance. This incident has forced a re-evaluation of traditional practices within the film industry.
Madhuri Dixit's Stance: Personal Choice Over One-Size-Fits-All
In a conversation with ANI on December 1, 2025, Madhuri Dixit reflected on the issue, drawing from her own illustrious career spanning decades. She recalled working extensive hours, such as during the shoot of 'Mrs Deshpande', where 12-hour shifts or more were the norm. However, she firmly believes the decision should lie with the individual.
"I think to each his own," stated Dixit. "I'm a workaholic. So for me, maybe it's different, but if a woman has that power and can say, 'okay, I want to work these many hours,' then that's her prerogative, and that's her life... Then more power to her."
Her comments underscore a philosophy of individual agency, suggesting that actors should not be pressured to conform to a universal standard but should have the freedom to negotiate terms that suit their personal and professional lives.
Echoing Sentiments: Rani Mukerji's Earlier Remarks
Madhuri Dixit is not the only veteran actress to comment on this evolving norm. Earlier, Rani Mukerji had also addressed the topic, explaining that flexible working hours have always been based on mutual agreement between actors and producers.
Mukerji remarked that such arrangements are a matter of choice and conversation, noting, "If the producer's okay with it, you go ahead with the film. If the producer isn't okay with it, you don't make the film." Her viewpoint reinforces the idea that these negotiations are intrinsic to the business, though they are now gaining more public attention.
The Legacy of a Star Who Balanced It All
Madhuri Dixit, one of Bollywood's most revered figures, speaks from a position of immense experience. She rose to superstardom with iconic films like 'Dil', 'Beta', 'Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!', and 'Dil To Pagal Hai'. Her critically acclaimed performances in movies such as 'Parinda', 'Mrityudand', and 'Pukar' have been widely celebrated.
She won the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress for her memorable role as Chandramukhi in 'Devdas'. In recent years, audiences have seen her in 'Dedh Ishqiya', the Netflix series 'The Fame Game', 'Total Dhamaal', and the hit 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3'.
Her ability to manage a demanding career while balancing motherhood gives weight to her opinion on the work-life balance debate. As Bollywood continues to modernize, the insights from legends like Dixit and Mukerji highlight a shifting paradigm where personal well-being is increasingly being placed alongside professional commitment.
