Rani Mukerji Defends Deepika Padukone's Alleged 8-Hour Shift Demand, Sharing Her Own Experiences with Pregnancy and Filming

Veteran actress Rani Mukerji has weighed in on the ongoing buzz surrounding Deepika Padukone's alleged request for an 8-hour shift while filming an upcoming project, rumored to be 'Spirit' or a sequel to 'Kalki 2898 AD'. The reports, which remain unconfirmed, suggest Padukone, who is expecting her first child, made the request to accommodate her pregnancy.

Rani Mukerji, known for her candidness, not only supported the move but revealed she herself has adhered to similar schedules during her own pregnancies.

During an interaction, Mukerji openly stated, "I have also done it." Her comments shed light on the demanding nature of the film industry and the often-misunderstood dynamics between actors, production houses, and personal circumstances.

Rani emphasized that while there's a general perception of actors working tirelessly for 12-16 hours a day, it's often a choice born out of passion and the desire to complete projects efficiently.

"Let me tell you, when we sign up for films, sometimes we are so passionate about the films that we want to finish it, and we want to work for 12 hours, 14 hours, 16 hours," Rani explained.

She highlighted that many actors, herself included, choose to push their limits for a project they believe in. However, she also clarified that this intense schedule isn't a universal norm, especially for specific roles or personal situations.

Recalling her own journey, Rani shared that she worked 8-hour shifts during her pregnancies.

"When I was pregnant with Adira, I was working. My films Hichki and Mardaani 2, I had very small babies," she recounted. She noted that while producers are often accommodating and offer flexibility, actors themselves are frequently the ones pushing to complete their commitments. "There are times when you choose to work only 8 hours, and there are times you want to work 12 hours.

It's an actor's choice," she asserted, underlining the agency actors possess in managing their schedules.

The discussion around Deepika Padukone's alleged request has sparked conversations about work-life balance, especially for women in the industry, and the evolving nature of production schedules.

Rani Mukerji's insights offer a valuable perspective, reinforcing that while dedication to craft is paramount, there is also room for individual needs and choices, particularly during significant life events like pregnancy. Her support for Deepika resonates with a broader call for understanding and flexibility within the glamorous yet demanding world of cinema.