After weeks of speculation, Deepika Padukone has finally spoken up about her decision to walk out of Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit and Nag Ashwin’s Kalki 2898 AD sequel. The actress, known for her grace and candor, opened up about the ongoing conversation surrounding her demand for fair working hours and equal pay.
In a recent interview with CNBC, the Fighter actress made it clear that her stance isn’t about ego or rebellion — it’s about fairness and professionalism. “By virtue of being a woman, if that’s coming across as being pushy or whatever, so be it,” she said, unapologetically.
Deepika pointed out that male superstars in the Indian film industry have been working 8-hour shifts for years without facing scrutiny or judgment. “It has never made headlines,” she emphasized.
The Double Standards In The Film Industry
Deepika’s statement has sparked a larger conversation in the industry — one about gender bias and work ethics. The actress noted how the same standards are never applied to men.
She said, “Many male actors don’t even work on weekends. They work 8 hours a day, Monday to Friday, and nobody bats an eye. But when a woman asks for the same, suddenly it becomes news.”
Her words shed light on the subtle yet persistent double standards that exist in showbiz. For years, actresses have spoken about pay disparity and unbalanced expectations, but few have taken such a clear stand on working culture — especially someone of Deepika’s stature.
A Call For Structure In The Film Industry
Beyond pay and hours, Deepika stressed on the need for the Indian film industry to become more structured and organized. She said, “We really never worked as an industry. We are a very disorganized industry, and I think it’s time we brought in some system and work culture.”
Her comments resonate strongly in an industry that often relies on erratic schedules, delayed shoots, and excessive working hours. Deepika’s call for an organized system is a wake-up call for both production houses and unions to rethink how they manage time and resources.
Many insiders have quietly acknowledged that the industry often runs on chaos — where shoot schedules are extended endlessly, and actors, especially women, are expected to adjust without complaint.
Deepika’s Way Of Handling Controversy
While the actress has made headlines for walking out of big-budget projects like Spirit and the Kalki sequel, she maintained that her decisions were rooted in dignity and self-respect.
“I’ve always fought my battles silently and in a dignified way,” Deepika said. “This is not new to me. Even when it comes to pay, I’ve had to deal with things that I don’t even know what to call. But yes, I’ve always chosen to handle them quietly.”
Deepika’s statement reflects her maturity and professionalism. Despite the rumors and speculation, she has chosen to focus on values rather than public drama. Her calm and composed demeanor sets an example for younger artists who often struggle to navigate the power dynamics of the industry.
Upcoming Projects And A New Chapter
Despite the recent exits, Deepika’s career graph remains sky-high. She will soon be seen alongside Shah Rukh Khan in King, one of the most anticipated projects of 2026. The film reunites one of Bollywood’s most beloved on-screen pairs after the massive success of On Shanti Om, Chennai Express, and Pathaan.
Fans are also eagerly awaiting her next ventures, with reports suggesting she’s in talks for an international collaboration and a strong female-led drama.
Deepika’s recent comments make one thing clear — she’s not afraid to speak her truth. Whether it’s demanding structured working hours, fair pay, or simply advocating for balance, she continues to redefine what it means to be a modern Bollywood superstar.
Deepika Padukone’s remarks go beyond a single controversy. They highlight the broader issues that plague the entertainment industry — inequality, disorganization, and outdated work practices.
By taking a stand, Deepika has once again shown why she remains one of the most respected figures in Indian cinema. Her courage to challenge norms while maintaining grace is what sets her apart.
As the actress moves forward with new projects and priorities, her message remains powerful: professionalism, equality, and respect should never be negotiable — not even in the glittering world of Bollywood.
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