In a significant show of solidarity, Sunita Ahuja, the wife of veteran Bollywood star Govinda, has publicly voiced her support for actress Deepika Padukone's recent demand for regulated 8-hour work shifts, particularly emphasizing the needs of working mothers in the film industry. The endorsement came during a candid Q&A session on Ahuja's personal vlog, where she discussed the perennial challenge of balancing professional commitments with family life.
Sunita Ahuja's Candid Take on Motherhood in Bollywood
During her interactive session with viewers, Sunita Ahuja was directly asked to comment on Deepika Padukone's statement about the necessity of respecting a mother's schedule on film sets. She responded with unequivocal agreement. "What Deepika has said, I think she is right," Ahuja stated. She elaborated that while work is undoubtedly important, a mother's primary responsibility is towards her children. "After shooting for 8 hours, it is important to give time to your kids," she asserted, highlighting the core of Padukone's argument.
Ahuja further strengthened her stance by sharing her personal parenting philosophy. "You should take care of your kids in front of your own eyes. Because I have never given my kids to a servant," she revealed. She concluded her thoughts by praising Deepika's maternal instincts and shifting the onus onto producers, stating, "And Deepika must have said this because she is a good mother. Producers should think." This direct call to filmmakers adds considerable weight to the ongoing conversation about systemic change in production schedules.
The Deepika Padukone Demand That Sparked a Debate
Sunita Ahuja's comments refer to a significant professional stand taken by Deepika Padukone that has sent ripples through the Indian film industry. According to multiple reports, Padukone had put forth a set of conditions for her involvement in projects, which notably included a strict 8-hour shift limit and a model of profit-sharing. These demands are widely believed to have led to her exit from director Sandeep Reddy Vanga's ambitious film 'Spirit', which stars Telugu superstar Prabhas.
The actress's decision to step away from such a high-profile project ignited widespread discussion about working conditions and actor agency. Subsequently, Padukone also exited another major Telugu film, 'Kalki 2', reportedly over similar issues concerning her terms. These back-to-back exits underscore her commitment to the principle, transforming a personal demand into a public industry debate.
Deepika Padukone's Upcoming Projects
Despite these high-profile exits, Deepika Padukone's professional calendar remains packed with prestigious ventures. On the work front, she is next set to feature in a pan-India mass entertainer starring Allu Arjun and directed by hitmaker Atlee. The film is also reported to feature Rashmika Mandanna and Mrunal Thakur in significant roles, though an official release date is still awaited.
Furthermore, the actress will share screen space with Shah Rukh Khan in the much-anticipated film 'King', directed by Siddharth Anand. This project holds special significance as it is slated to mark the big-screen debut of SRK's daughter, Suhana Khan. The film is currently scheduled for a grand release in 2026.
The vocal support from an industry insider like Sunita Ahuja amplifies Deepika Padukone's advocacy for structured work hours. It highlights a growing conversation about sustainable work practices in Indian cinema, especially for artistes who are parents, pushing for a more humane and balanced approach to film production.
