Entertainment
Ajay Devgn Takes a Dig? ‘Honest Filmmakers Won’t Have Problems’ – Reacts to Deepika’s 8-Hour Shift Demand & Vanga’s Disagreement!
Mumbai, May 29, 2025 – Bollywood’s work culture is under the spotlight, and Ajay Devgn is weighing in. The veteran actor has supported Deepika Padukone’s push for 8-hour workdays, subtly addressing director Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s criticism by saying “honest filmmakers” won’t mind. His comments, made at a recent event, are fueling a heated debate about fairness and balance in the film industry.
What Ajay Devgn Said
At the trailer launch for his film Maa, Devgn spoke candidly:
- “If you plan well, 8 hours are enough to get the job done,” he said, backing shorter workdays.
- “Honest directors who value actors won’t complain,” a remark seen as a nod to Vanga’s objections.
- He added a personal touch: “I’ve never set fixed hours, but I respect when co-stars need boundaries.”
His words have struck a chord in an industry known for long hours.
The Debate’s Roots
The clash started with Deepika’s work rules:
- Deepika’s Stance: After burnout during Padmaavat and becoming a mother to Dua in 2024, she reportedly demanded 8-hour shifts, leading to her exit from Vanga’s Spirit.
- Vanga’s Pushback: The Animal director called such limits tough for “passion-driven” films, sparking a feud when Triptii Dimri replaced Deepika.
- Kabir Khan’s View: The Bajrangi Bhaijaan director backed Deepika, saying smart planning makes humane schedules possible.
This rift has split Bollywood into two camps.
Industry Sides and Insights
The debate has drawn clear lines:
- Team Deepika: Stars like Alia Bhatt and Vidya Balan support structured hours, saying it helps everyone thrive. Film crew unions call it a win for workers’ rights.
- Team Vanga: Ranbir Kapoor once noted some films need intense schedules for magic. Action directors argue big films require flexible hours.
- Mental Health Angle: Experts say Bollywood’s typical 16-hour days cause stress and burnout, while studies show shorter hours boost creativity.
Both sides are digging in, reflecting deeper tensions.
Why This Matters
This isn’t just about one film—it’s about how Bollywood works. Deepika’s push challenges old norms, while Vanga’s stance defends the industry’s high-stakes hustle. The outcome could shape schedules, casting, and even film quality, as stars and crews demand better balance.
What’s Next for the Debate
The industry’s watching two key projects:
- Deepika’s Kalki 2898 AD sequel, set for 2026, will test if her 8-hour rule holds up on a big-budget set.
- Vanga’s Animal Park, in pre-production, may struggle to cast stars wary of his intense approach.
This debate could change Bollywood’s work culture for good.
