Actor Deepika Padukone has once again addressed the ongoing debate surrounding her comments on the need for eight-hour workdays in the film industry. In a new interview, the actress shared her firm belief that overworking has been wrongly glorified and emphasised the importance of healthier workplace practices—especially for new mothers returning to their careers.

Speaking to Harper’s Bazaar, Deepika said, “We’ve normalised overworking. We mistake burnout for commitment. Eight hours of work a day is enough for the human body and mind. Only when you’re healthy can you give your best. Bringing a burnt-out person back into the system helps no one.” She added that the culture of constant overexertion needs a reset if industries, including entertainment, wish to sustain long-term productivity and creativity.

The Pathaan star also spoke about her personal approach to work-life balance, revealing that her own office adheres to an eight-hour, five-day work schedule. “In my office, we work eight hours a day, Monday to Friday. We have maternity and paternity policies. We should normalise bringing children to work,” she said, highlighting the need for inclusive and progressive workplace structures.

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Addressing the controversy surrounding her earlier comments, Deepika said that her stance wasn’t about gender privilege but equality. “By virtue of being a woman, if that comes across as pushy, then so be it. But many male superstars in our industry have worked eight hours for years, and it has never made headlines,” she said. Deepika also mentioned that several male actors follow structured work routines—something the industry should standardise rather than stigmatise.

Reflecting on the broader issue, Deepika criticised the Indian film industry’s “chalta hai” culture, calling it unorganised and outdated. She said it’s time filmmakers, crews, and studios prioritise mental wellbeing and efficiency over workload glorification. Reinforcing her commitment to change, she reiterated, “I feel strongly about how new mothers need to be supported when they return to work. That’s something I want to focus on moving forward.”

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