Deepika Padukone Advocates 8-Hour Workday, Urges Support for Working Mothers
Mumbai – Bollywood superstar Deepika Padukone has sparked discussions about work culture in the film industry, advocating for eight-hour workdays and stronger support systems for working mothers. Earlier this year, she withdrew from major projects like Spirit and the Kalki 2898 AD sequel to spend more time with her young daughter, Dua, highlighting the pressures of overwork.
Support for New Mothers at Work
In a recent Harper’s Bazaar India interview, Deepika stated:
“I feel strongly about how new mothers need to be supported when they return to work. We’ve normalised overworking. We mistake burnout for commitment. Eight hours of work a day is enough for the human body and mind.”
She added that only when people are healthy can they give their best, noting her own office follows eight-hour workdays, Monday to Friday, with maternity and paternity policies. She also advocated for normalising bringing children to work to create more inclusive environments.
Time as the Measure of Success
Reflecting on her priorities after motherhood, Deepika shared:
“For me today, success is physical and emotional well-being. Time is our greatest currency—how I spend it, who I spend it with, and having the freedom to decide that. That, for me, is success.”
Championing Mental Health Awareness
Beyond advocating for work-life balance, Deepika continues to champion mental health in India. As the country’s first mental health ambassador, she emphasizes the need for more qualified therapists, counsellors, psychotherapists, and psychiatrists. She expressed her desire to help improve access to care nationwide.
Upcoming Film Projects
Deepika is set to appear in Siddharth Anand’s King alongside Shah Rukh Khan, Suhana Khan, and Abhishek Bachchan. She will also star in Atlee’s upcoming project ‘AA22xA6’ with Allu Arjun, keeping fans eagerly anticipating her return to the big screen.
