The recent exit of Deepika Padukone from director Sandeep Reddy Vanga's upcoming film 'Spirit', reportedly due to scheduling and remuneration issues, has ignited a crucial debate about working conditions within the Indian film industry. This incident has prompted several actors and filmmakers to voice their opinions, with actress Kalki Koechlin now adding her perspective to the growing conversation.
Kalki Koechlin Exposes The Reality of Bollywood Shifts
In a candid interview with Hindustan Times while promoting her international project 'Her Song', Kalki Koechlin did not hold back while comparing her experiences on global and domestic sets. She pointed directly to the pervasive issue of grueling and unpredictable work hours.
"Rarely has my 12-hour shift here ended or begun on time," Kalki revealed, emphasizing that the situation is even more taxing for the crew members who are required to work for even longer durations. She contrasted this with her experience shooting for 'Goldfish' in London in 2023, where strict protocols were followed, including designated one-hour lunch breaks and a guaranteed day off every seventh day.
Koechlin firmly believes that adopting such structured practices could significantly improve the working environment. "I believe we can learn a great deal from that to create a happier set. The chaos we work with here isn’t necessarily healthy for creative work," she stated.
Indian vs International Sets: A Study in Contrast
Delving deeper into the differences, Kalki praised the lean and efficient nature of international film crews. "The fun and coolest part was how tight and concise the crew was!" she exclaimed. This stands in stark contrast to the typical Indian film set, which she described as often having no less than 100 people present at any given time.
This overwhelming presence, according to the 'Shaitan' actress, creates an environment that is counterproductive to focus and artistry. "It can be chaotic and noisy where you’re trying to concentrate," she explained. Kalki noted the abundance of peace, or "shaant", on international sets, suggesting it as a valuable lesson for the Indian industry. However, she also believes the global film community could learn from Indian cinema's mastery of portraying heightened emotions effectively.
Looking Ahead: 'Her Song' and Comedy Dreams
Shifting focus to her own work, Kalki Koechlin shared that her film 'Her Song' is slated for screenings at film festivals as well as theatrical releases. The actress is currently busy shooting for an undisclosed project in Mumbai and Kolkata. Expressing a desire to explore lighter roles, Kalki said, "But I just wish for a nice comedy to come my way. That’s what’s missing from my life."
The insights from Koechlin, following the high-profile 'Spirit' controversy, underscore a pressing need for introspection within Bollywood regarding work culture, crew welfare, and the overall ecosystem that supports filmmaking.
