Deepika Padukone has been a central figure in two important conversations within the Indian film industry: her call for 8-hour work shifts and her promotion of mental health awareness. Following her departure from the films Spirit and Kalki 2898 AD, Deepika addressed the industry’s demanding work culture. Reports indicated that her exit stemmed from her request for regulated 8-hour workdays, which she believes are crucial for achieving a better work-life balance, particularly after becoming a mother. She stated that motherhood has positively pushed her beyond her comfort zone, making her more social and patient. Filmmaker Hansal Mehta has voiced his support for Deepika’s position, criticizing the acceptance of long work hours and the negative impact they have on personal lives.
He pointed out the exhaustion experienced by crew members, especially those earning daily wages, and called for a reassessment of the industry’s work culture. In a detailed post on X, Mehta remarked, “In our line of work, a 12-hour day is politely called a ‘shift.’ The reality is that amidst the chaos of shoots, long commutes, rushed meals, and only a few hours of broken sleep, we have little left to give. Where do our mental health and physical well-being fit into this situation?” He further noted, “Weekends are seldom actual weekends. Taking breaks is frowned upon. At some point, exhaustion has become normalized, while rest is viewed as a luxury.
I sometimes question whether this can truly be called an industry if it thrives on the relentless exhaustion of its workforce.” On World Mental Health Day, Deepika was appointed as India’s first-ever Mental Health Ambassador by the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. This recognition highlights her ongoing commitment to mental health advocacy, a passion she has pursued since founding The Live Love Laugh Foundation in 2015, which provides free counseling, psychiatric support, and training for doctors to address mental health issues. However, she has also faced criticism regarding an Abu Dhabi tourism advertisement featuring her in an Abaya, which some viewers have misinterpreted as a Hijab.