Rashmika Mandanna calls for healthier work culture in films; says, ‘Glorifying overworking is not good’

Currently promoting her upcoming film The Girlfriend, Rashmika opened up about the immense pressure artists face due to tight schedules and unrealistic expectations.

Rashmika Mandanna has spoken out about an issue that continues to plague the Indian film industry — the culture of overworking. As the debate around long and unregulated working hours gains momentum, the actress has urged for a healthier and more sustainable approach to filmmaking.

Currently promoting her upcoming film The Girlfriend, Rashmika opened up about the immense pressure artists face due to tight schedules and unrealistic expectations. Speaking to Gulte Pro, she said, “Us glorifying overworking is not good. I overwork, and I am telling you, it is not suggestible and sustainable. I take on much more than a normal human being can, but I’m not someone who can say no to my team. There will be location availability and time constraints. But if I could choose for myself, I would say, please don’t make us do that. This applies to all the crafts, not just actors.”

The conversation isn’t new as several actors, including Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Konkona Sen Sharma, have previously spoken in favour of an eight-hour workday policy for film shoots. Nawazuddin, who also starred alongside Rashmika in Thamma, recently highlighted the importance of maintaining a comfortable work environment that encourages artistic output rather than burnout.

Also read: Thamma Box Office Collection Day 7: Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna starrer earns Rs 150 Cr worldwide

The issue gained renewed attention after reports suggested that Deepika Padukone stepped away from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit due to scheduling and work-hour conflicts. Her exit sparked widespread discussion about the absence of defined work limits in Indian cinema and the toll such schedules take on artists’ mental and physical health.

Rashmika’s latest release, Thamma, co-starring Ayushmann Khurrana, has emerged as a post-Diwali box-office success, crossing Rs 90 crore in its first week.