Deepak Tijori backs Deepika Padukone’s 8-Hour workday demand; says, "Parenting today is a different ballgame"

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As the film industry continues to grapple with changing work norms, actor-director Deepak Tijori has voiced his support for Deepika Padukone amid her much-discussed exit from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s upcoming film Spirit. The actress, who was set to star opposite Prabhas, reportedly walked away from the project due to scheduling conflicts, most notably, her demand for an 8-hour workday, which many believe stems from her recent journey into motherhood.

While the role has since gone to Animal star Triptii Dimri, Deepika’s exit has stirred a larger debate in Bollywood - can the industry adapt to more balanced, humane work schedules?

Deepak Tijori believes the shift is not only reasonable but necessary. Speaking to India Today, he said, “It’s justified. Back then, we didn’t have nuclear families. We lived in joint families, and there were always other members around to help take care of the children. Today, that support system is missing. If you're living alone with your spouse and have a child, you have to manage everything yourself.”

Deepak added that the demands of parenting in today’s world are very different from what they were in the past. “Having a baby today is not the same as it was back then—you have to take responsibility. Parenting today is a very different ballgame. Times have changed.”

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The filmmaker also acknowledged the exhausting schedules typical of film sets, often stretching to 14–16 hours a day. While these long hours were once considered standard, he believes actors today are drawing healthy boundaries, and they should be supported for doing so.

“Those who are demanding better conditions—they have their reasons. They don’t have the kind of time we had. They’re still working long hours, but today’s generation is more vocal about their boundaries, and that’s fair. It’s not a hobby—it’s a job, it’s a responsibility,” he was quoted saying.

Speaking to Moneycontrol.com earlier, Priya Banerjee had said, . “A structured 8-hour shift would allow women to plan their lives better, reduce burnout, and remain active in the industry without sacrificing their family responsibilities.” She also cited real-world examples like Hichki and Kajol's past projects as proof that efficiency doesn't have to come at the cost of quality. “Producers need to realise that people who feel respected and well-rested create better magic on screen. It’s not just about fairness, it’s about smarter filmmaking,” she concluded.