Kiara Advani Speaks on Bollywood's 8-Hour Shift Debate, Advocates for Work-Life Balance
Kiara Advani on Bollywood's 8-Hour Shift & Mental Health

Bollywood actress Kiara Advani has weighed in on the industry's hotly debated topic of implementing fixed eight-hour work shifts. Her comments come amidst heightened discussions following reports about fellow star Deepika Padukone's alleged exit from projects like 'Spirit' and 'Kalki 2' over similar demands for regulated working hours.

"Burnout Helps No One": Kiara's Clear Stance on Overwork

In a candid conversation with Vogue India, Advani articulated her position with clarity. "Burnout helps no one in any industry," she stated firmly. The actress elaborated that pushing teams beyond their limits is counterproductive, as it ultimately damages both people's well-being and their creative output.

She revealed that her professional philosophy now revolves around three core principles: dignity, balance, and respect. Kiara emphasized that these values are non-negotiable and apply universally, whether she is interacting with her domestic staff or the extensive crew on a film set. For her, prioritizing mental health is a collective responsibility that benefits everyone involved in a project.

Motherhood and a Renewed Focus on Well-being

The actress, who welcomed her first child, daughter Saraayah, with husband Sidharth Malhotra in July 2024, shared that motherhood has brought significant perspective. This new chapter has influenced her approach to selecting film roles. She now prioritizes the soul of the story over its genre.

Kiara confirmed she is actively reviewing several scripts, including a biopic that has particularly excited her. While her drive to work is stronger than ever, she is now more mindful and careful about maintaining her overall well-being, balancing her professional ambitions with personal health.

Looking Ahead: 'Toxic' First Look and Future Projects

On the work front, Kiara Advani is gearing up for her first major release post-motherhood. She will star opposite superstar Yash in the highly anticipated film 'Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups', scheduled for release in March 2026.

The makers recently unveiled her first-look poster, introducing her character named Nadia. The poster was met with an overwhelming wave of admiration from fans across social media platforms. Expressing her gratitude, Kiara posted online, calling the role her "toughest one yet" and describing the experience as "transformative." She thanked her fans for the love showered on the first look, acknowledging the physical, mental, and emotional demands of the part.

This project not only marks her comeback but also stands as a testament to her evolved approach to a demanding career, where passion is now seamlessly blended with self-care and respect for sustainable work practices.