Tanuj Virwani backs Deepika Padukone's 8-hour workday request amid Sandeep Reddy Vanga's Spirit controversy: 'She is well within her rights especially since she is a new mother'
's unexpected exit from
's upcoming film Spirit has sparked widespread conversation around work conditions in the film industry. While reports cite disagreements over pay and scheduling, actor
has stepped in to support Deepika, calling her demands both reasonable and necessary—especially as a new mother balancing family and career.
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In an exclusive chat with Bollywood Bubble, Tanuj stressed the importance of acknowledging and supporting work-life balance, especially for new mothers. Referring to Deepika Padukone's situation, he said she was well within her rights to request a fixed schedule, sharing that he's witnessed similar challenges firsthand with his own wife, as they care for their 8-month-old daughter.
The actor further emphasized the need for equal and fair working conditions across the board—for actors as well as crew members.
He stated that 12-hour shifts, including time for hair, makeup, and meals, are reasonable as long as there's at least one weekly day off. He also pointed out that the downtime between shifts and commute time should be factored in, especially when shoots are far from home, stressing the importance of a balanced and humane work environment for everyone on set.
He concluded by saying that while he has personally tried to maintain this balance in his own work, it would be ideal if such practices became industry standards.
He also highlighted the need for stronger, more supportive unions to help enforce fair working conditions across the film industry.
According to reports, Deepika Padukone initially came on board Spirit drawn by its gripping storyline and the depth of her character. However, circumstances later shifted, leading her to step away from the project.
Deepika Padukone had reportedly requested a fee of Rs 40 crore for Spirit, while the makers had allocated only Rs 20 crore for her.
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She also asked for a fixed shooting schedule to help balance her professional and personal commitments. Additionally, she was expected to learn Telugu for the role. With her demands not aligning with the production team's plans, disagreements arose, ultimately leading Deepika to opt out of the film.
Spirit marks the first on-screen collaboration between
and Triptii Dimri. For Triptii, it also reunites her with director Sandeep Reddy Vanga and producers Bhushan Kumar and Pranay Reddy Vanga, following the success of Animal. Prabhas is set to play a police officer in the film, which is currently in pre-production.
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