Rashmika Mandanna supports Deepika Padukone's 8-hour work shift, says, "like offices have 9–5, let's have that"

Rashmika Mandanna supports Deepika Padukone's 8-hour work shift, says, "like offices have 9–5, let's have that"Rashmika Mandanna supports Deepika Padukone's 8-hour work shift, says, "like offices have 9–5, let's have that"

The discussion around work hours in the Indian film industry has taken a new turn after actress Rashmika Mandanna voiced her support for Deepika Padukone’s stand on structured eight-hour shifts. Rashmika, who has been one of the busiest actors in Indian cinema, admitted that her tendency to overwork is unhealthy and unsustainable.

The conversation began after Deepika reportedly exited two major projects—Spirit and the sequel to Kalki 2898 AD—because she insisted on fixed eight-hour workdays. Her move sparked widespread debate about the demanding nature of film shoots and the lack of regulated working hours for actors and crew members.

Producer Sreenivasa Kumar recently praised Rashmika during an event for her upcoming film The Girlfriend, calling her the only actor who never insists on fixed hours. But the actress herself doesn’t seem proud of that. In an interview with Gulte, Rashmika reflected on how her overworking habits have taken a toll on her well-being.

“I overwork, and I am telling you it’s highly not suggestible. It’s not sustainable, don’t do it. Do what’s comfortable for you, do what is right for you, get those eight hours, get those nine–ten hours also, because trust me, that’s going to save you later,” she said. “I’ve seen a lot of these conversations recently about work hours. I’ve done both, and I’m telling you this is not worth it.”

The actress explained that her inability to say no often leads her to accept more work than she can handle. “I often end up taking on more projects and responsibilities than I should. It’s not because of pressure from others—it’s because I can’t say no to my team,” she said. “If I could choose for myself, I would say please don’t make us actors do that. Like offices have 9–5, let us have that.”

Rashmika highlighted how this lack of structure impacts other aspects of life. “There’s still a family life I want to focus on, there’s still my sleep that I want to get in, and I still want to work out so that later on I’m not regretting it. I am still thinking about my future, but right now I don’t have a say because I’m taking too much,” she added.

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Her comments mirror a growing sentiment among actors and technicians across industries who are pushing for more humane work conditions. Many have noted that while the glamour of cinema hides it, long erratic hours, lack of rest, and mental strain are widespread realities behind the scenes.

Workwise, Rashmika Mandanna has had a packed year, appearing in Chhaava, Sikandar, Kuberaa, and Thamma. Her next release, The Girlfriend, hits theatres on November 5.

Rashmika’s candid remarks strike at the heart of a larger issue—sustainability in the entertainment industry. Her words echo a truth often ignored in creative professions: passion may drive the work, but rest sustains the artist.