Rashmika Mandanna Says ‘I Overwork’ Amid Deepika Padukone’s 8-Hour Work Shift Controversy
Mumbai: Currently riding high on the success of Thamma, actress Rashmika Mandanna is gearing up for another anticipated blockbuster, The Girlfriend. Known for her outspoken nature, the Animal actress recently weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding Deepika Padukone’s 8-hour work shift policy, sharing her honest take on overworking in the film industry.
Rashmika Mandanna Reacts Amid Deepika Padukone’s Work Rule Controversy
In a candid conversation with Glute, Rashmika admitted that she often overworks — but strongly advised against glorifying such habits.
“I think us glorifying the fact that we overwork is not good. I overwork, and I’m telling you, it’s highly not suggestible. Don’t do it. It’s not sustainable,” she said.
“Do what is comfortable for you, do what is right for you. Get those 8 hours, get those 9–10 hours also because trust me, that’s going to save you in the later ages.”
The actress reflected on her own struggles with long shooting schedules and the mental and physical toll it takes on film crews.
“Of course, it’s a responsibility that you have. I tend to overwork myself because I take on so much more than a normal human being can and should,” she explained.
“But I’m also not someone who will tell my teams that I can’t do something for them. If they are struggling, I’ll give in because I understand the pressure. That’s almost every day in cinema.”
Rashmika on Work-Life Balance
Rashmika further highlighted the need for structured work hours in the film industry to protect the well-being of everyone involved — from actors to technicians.
“Directors, lightmen, music, everyone — just have, like you know, how office time is 9 to 6 or 9 to 5, let us have that,” she said.
“Because there’s still a family life that I want to focus on, there’s still my sleep that I want to get in, I still want to work out so later on I’m not regretting not being healthy. I’m still thinking about my future. But right now, I don’t have a say because I’m taking on too much on myself.”
Background: Deepika Padukone’s 8-Hour Rule Sparks Debate
The conversation around work hours in Bollywood reignited after reports surfaced that Deepika Padukone had requested an 8-hour workday for her upcoming projects. While many praised her for promoting a healthy work-life balance, others felt it was impractical in an industry known for long, unpredictable shoots.
Rashmika’s balanced yet self-critical response has struck a chord with fans, many of whom praised her for acknowledging both sides of the debate.
Rashmika Mandanna’s Upcoming Projects
On the professional front, Rashmika has an impressive slate ahead, including Kubera and Rainbow, alongside major projects in multiple languages. After the success of Animal and Thamma, she continues to cement her position as one of the most versatile stars in Indian cinema.
