8-Hour Shift Row Continues as Chitrangda Singh Shares Industry Realities

The discussion around fixed working hours in Bollywood continues to divide opinions. The debate began after Deepika Padukone spoke about work-life balance and suggested eight-hour shifts.

Now, actor Chitrangda Singh has weighed in, calling the idea “very difficult” to implement. She shared her views in recent interactions with NDTV and IANS.

‘Creative Field Can’t Be Bound by Time’

According to Singh, filmmaking operates under unpredictable conditions. She explained that delays often arise due to weather, lighting, or technical issues.

“It’s a creative field… anything can happen,” she said. Because of this, she believes strict time limits do not suit film sets.

Business Constraints Shape Work Schedules

Singh also pointed out that cinema is driven by financial realities. She said schedules often depend on agreements between actors, directors, and producers.

“There’s also a business aspect to everything,” she noted. However, she acknowledged that top stars like Padukone may have more flexibility in setting conditions.

‘It’s Her Right to Make a Choice’

While discussing the issue further, Singh said working hours depend on individual arrangements. She emphasised that actors can negotiate based on their understanding with filmmakers.

“It is everyone’s own choice… it is her right to make a choice,” she said. At the same time, she stressed that constraints like time, money, and scheduling often limit flexibility.

‘You Can’t Put a Hard Stop’

Singh added that rigid eight-hour caps are difficult for all actors. She clarified that the challenge is not limited to women.

“You can’t put a hard stop like that,” she said. Film shoots, she explained, require adaptability due to changing conditions.

Focus on Technicians’ Long Working Hours

Meanwhile, Singh highlighted a key concern within the industry. She said technicians, including lightmen and crew members, often work the longest hours.

“They are the first ones to come and the last ones to leave,” she noted. Their demanding schedules, she added, need more attention and regulation.

Industry Support and Ongoing Discussions

The debate has also drawn reactions from other industry figures. Actors like Kajol and Ajay Devgn, along with filmmaker Mani Ratnam, have expressed support for Padukone’s stance.

At the same time, reports linked to filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga suggest that working hours are rarely fixed in practice. According to a source, shoot durations depend on factors like location, lighting, and scene requirements.

Flexibility Remains Central to Filmmaking

The same report noted that filmmaking relies on collaboration and adaptability. It stated that shoots may last two hours or extend much longer, depending on the situation.

The emphasis, the source added, remains on commitment and respect for the craft rather than strict hourly limits.