My Team Worked 16–18 Hours for 1.5 Years
The heated debate on working hour reform in Bollywood continues to gain momentum following reports that new mother Deepika Padukone is seeking an 8-hour shift for her post-baby projects. While much of the conversation has centered around the need for humane, regular programming, the filmmaker Aditya Dhar He offered a contrasting perspective shaped by his own filmmaking experience.
Speaking at the trailer launch DhurandharDhar revealed that the cast and crew worked continuously for almost a year and a half. “Actors, HODs, assistants, even stage staff; everyone worked 16 to 18 hours straight,” he said, noting that not a single crew member had filed a complaint. According to him, such long hours were not due to pressure but to passion and belief in the film. DhurandharIt was a project that “required everything we had,” he added, and the team delivered with complete dedication.
Dhar’s comments reignited the online debate. While supporters praised the team’s determination, critics argued that the filmmaker’s words were an example of Bollywood’s deep-rooted culture of excessive working hours; This system many believe is in urgent need of reform. Social media users noted that passion shouldn’t turn into burnout, and that even the most dedicated teams deserve structured, humane programs.
This issue is becoming more urgent as more artists, especially women and new parents, demand safer, more orderly working conditions. Deepika Padukone’s demand for an 8-hour shift has already sparked debate on whether Bollywood should adopt global standards where strict timetables are enforced to protect the physical and mental health of the cast and crew.
Advocates of reform argue that discipline, planning, and respect for personal boundaries can coexist with creativity and efficiency. Others argue that filmmaking inherently requires flexibility and long working hours.
Dhar’s words underscore the cultural divide: One side is rooted in a tradition of pushing the boundaries of art, the other side is pushing for healthier, more sustainable work practices. As the conversation intensifies, the industry faces a very important question: How can Bollywood balance passion and prosperity?
For now, Dhar’s praise for his hard-working team underscores a long-known but rarely mentioned truth: Behind every great film, there is an army of people doing their best. But as the debate grows, Bollywood may soon have to redefine what “giving it all” really means.
This article is written by Sakshi, an intern from ST Joseph Degree and PG College.
