Actor Vidya Balan has voiced her strong support for flexible working hours for new mothers in the film industry. Backing Deepika Padukone’s earlier stand, Vidya said it’s high time the film world became more understanding of the needs of working moms.
In This Article:
- “I Think That’s Fair,” Says Vidya
- Admits Her Own Advantage
- Industry Divided, But the Conversation Grows
- Final Thoughts
Recently, Deepika Padukone stepped away from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s film Spirit, and one of the key reasons was said to be the long and inflexible shooting hours. The incident sparked a heated debate in Bollywood — should new mothers be expected to work 12-hour shifts like everyone else?
Vidya Balan has now entered that conversation, and her opinion is clear: empathy matters.
“I Think That’s Fair,” Says Vidya
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Vidya said,
“There is conversation about how mothers need to have an option to work for fewer hours, flexible hours, right? And I think that’s fair.”
She pointed out that many other industries are already making changes to retain new mothers in the workforce. “Why should the film industry be any different?” she added.
Admits Her Own Advantage
Vidya also shared that she personally works 12-hour days, but only because she doesn’t have parenting duties.
“I am not a mother, so I have all the time in the world to be doing a 12-hour shift,” she said.
She emphasized that just because she can manage long days doesn’t mean it should be the standard for everyone.
Industry Divided, But the Conversation Grows
- Deepika’s exit from Spirit led to Triptii Dimri being cast in the lead role.
- Director Anurag Basu also supported Deepika, saying he doesn’t like long shoots either and always ensures his actors are comfortable.
- Vidya’s comments have added fuel to the ongoing debate.
Final Thoughts
As more women continue to make their mark in Bollywood, voices like Vidya Balan’s are important. She’s reminding the industry that talent shouldn’t be lost just because someone chooses to become a mother. Workspaces—including film sets—need to be more flexible and sensitive. If the rest of the world can evolve, so can Bollywood.
By – Nikita