Filmmaker Mani Ratnam has voiced strong support for actress Deepika Padukone amid the ongoing row with director Sandeep Reddy Vanga over work schedule demands. Speaking to Media during promotions for his upcoming film Thug Life, Ratnam praised Deepika’s request for an eight-hour workday as not only reasonable but necessary, especially for young mothers trying to balance career and family.
The veteran director was candid in his support: “It’s fair if she’s a young mother and needs to take care of her child. She should be able to do that without any hindrance.” Ratnam emphasized the importance of industry support for actors advocating for healthier working conditions, especially women asserting their needs. “It’s nice when women ask for what they want and get what they want. It’s a healthy sign,” he added.
The issue arose after reports surfaced that Deepika had been dropped from Vanga’s upcoming film Spirit following her insistence on limiting her work hours to eight per day to spend time with her daughter, Dua. Vanga, without naming her, had labeled the behavior as ‘unprofessional’, later replacing her with Triptii Dimri, his Animal co-star.
Ratnam, however, disagrees with that stance and instead called for a more empathetic and adaptable approach from filmmakers. “If it doesn’t fit into your film, move on. But they should be respected for what they are asking. They are making a very fair demand, which is absolutely necessary.”
His comments add to a growing wave of support from Bollywood insiders. Recently, actors Kajol, Ajay Devgn, and Saif Ali Khan also weighed in on the issue. Saif, speaking at the Arab Media Summit 2025, said, “I hate coming home and seeing the kids already asleep. That’s not success. Success is being able to say, ‘No, I need to go home now to catch that half hour with them.’”
Devgn also echoed a practical sentiment: “Most honest filmmakers wouldn’t have a problem with eight-hour shifts for new moms. The industry is slowly shifting in that direction.” The debate has highlighted the need for systemic changes in the Indian film industry's demanding work culture. What once seemed like a rigid, around-the-clock system is now being questioned, particularly by high-profile figures championing the cause of personal well-being and work-life balance.
Deepika Padukone, now a mother, has made it clear that her family comes first, and with respected voices like Mani Ratnam supporting her, a new conversation around humane work conditions in Bollywood appears to be gaining momentum. Thug Life, which marks the long-awaited reunion between Mani Ratnam and Kamal Haasan after nearly 40 years, hits theatres on June 5. The film also stars Simbu, Trisha, and Joju George.
