Kunal Kemmu Responds to Deepika Padukone’s Call for Shorter Working Hours for Actors
Bollywood actor Kunal Kemmu has shared his perspective on the debate sparked by Deepika Padukone last year regarding shorter work shifts for actors to promote better work–life balance, especially for new mothers.
Deepika had advocated for an eight-hour workday in the film industry, emphasizing that actors should have sufficient time for personal life, rest, and family commitments. The proposal ignited widespread discussion in Bollywood about balancing demanding shooting schedules with personal well-being.
Recently, during a conversation with Soha Ali Khan on her podcast, Kunal offered a pragmatic take on the issue, especially concerning motherhood and career planning. He stated:
“Then you decide you want to work for 2 hours only, and you will know that you won’t be able to finish the film on time, or the project will cost so much and I will lose money. It’s very easy to do on somebody else’s part. So I am saying, empower yourself and reach a position where it’s possible for you to do this. You can’t say, you give me a job, but now I’ll tell you how you pay me and when I will show up at work. I am saying this in general.”
When Soha pointed out that many women face the challenge of balancing motherhood with peak career periods, Kunal responded:
“But you still have a choice, there’s an incubation period of nine months, you can plan it. You have decided to be a mother, so you can plan it. Unless you are an accidental mother, it’s a different story. You have to plan it right naa, your planning can’t affect the way the world is working. It goes for men also, it’s a mindset thing, it’s not a man-woman thing.”
Kunal’s comments highlight his belief that planning and personal responsibility are key to managing career and parenthood, and he frames the discussion as a mindset issue rather than one limited to gender.
The conversation underscores the ongoing debate in Bollywood about working conditions, flexibility, and the unique pressures faced by actors balancing family commitments with demanding film schedules. While Deepika’s call for shorter shifts emphasizes systemic changes, Kunal’s remarks stress personal planning and accountability in navigating professional and personal life.
