Mumbai: Deepika Padukone one of Indian cinema’s most influential voices has finally broken her silence on her recent departure from two major projects: the ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ sequel and the Prabhas-starrer ‘Spirit’. This issue has evolved beyond just leaving two films it has become a powerful commentary on the deep-rooted gender discrimination pay disparity and disorganized work culture prevalent in Bollywood.
Moving beyond a typical entertainment story this is a bold step by Deepika Padukone to challenge the established norms of the industry.
It’s a Rule for Male Superstars, Why a Demand for Us?”
In a detailed interview with CNBC-TV18 Deepika addressed the speculation that she had to exit the films due to her demand for an 8-hour shift. She raised a sharp question highlighting the industry’s double standards.
By virtue of being a woman if that comes across as being pushy or whatever then so be it” Padukone said. “But it is no secret that a lot of superstars male superstars in the Indian Film Industry have been working for 8 hours for years and it’s never made headlines! A lot of them only work Monday to Friday.”
Her statement is not just a defense of her position but a direct strike at a system where what is a standard operating procedure for a male actor is viewed as an unreasonable “demand” from a female actress.
More Than Just Work Hours It’s a Fight for Principles
Analysts believe that Deepika’s move isn’t just about maintaining a work-life balance as a new mother it’s a fight for respect and fair valuation of her work. On pay disparity, she added
I have done this at many levels this is not new to me. I think even as far as pay is concerned, I have had to deal with whatever comes with it. I am someone who has always fought my battles silently and in a dignified way.”
Her decision to walk away from two highly anticipated films shows that she values her principles more than any commercial opportunity. This step sends a powerful message to the industry that top actresses will no longer silently accept unfair terms.
This incident could be a sign of a major shift in Bollywood where established artists like Deepika Padukone are using their stardom not just for themselves but to create a more organized respectful and equal working environment for the next generation of actresses. This isn’t just a story about two films it could be the beginning of a new chapter in Bollywood.
