Late returns home are normal for actors.
The debate over standardised working hours in Indian cinema has intensified since Deepika Padukone reportedly exited Prabhas’ Spirit due to shifting schedules.
Many stars have begun speaking openly about the need for healthier working conditions.
Rashmika Mandanna recently supported conversations about an 8-hour workday, and Keerthy Suresh is now the latest actress to share her perspective.
Her comments arrive during promotions for her upcoming film Revolver Rita, where she addressed the growing discussion around fixed work shifts.
Keerthy stated that the idea of an actor’s life fitting neatly into an 8-hour day is far from realistic.
She explained that her schedule varies widely depending on the production.
“I do all kinds of shifts; 9 to 6, 9 to 9 and 9 to 2,” she said during a press conference.
She recalled shooting Mahanati while juggling five other films at the same time.
She added that she has also experienced sets that follow a 9 to 6 pattern, although the workload remains demanding regardless.
The actress provided a detailed breakdown of what a supposedly regular shift actually entails behind the scenes.
She explained that a 9 to 6 shoot requires her to be camera-ready by 9, meaning she must arrive on set by 7.30.
This forces her to leave home around 6.30 and wake up by 5.30 to prepare for the day.
Keerthy highlighted that these timings leave very little room for rest or personal life, despite how organised the schedule may appear externally.
She stressed that lengthy days and late returns home are normal for actors involved in daily shoot cycles.
According to her, most cast members typically reach home by 10 PM after completing work.
She explained that actors need eight hours of sleep, just like everyone else, yet achieving this during shooting periods is extremely challenging.
“What time do I have to wake up in the morning? At 5.30, we hardly get six hours of sleep, even when it is a 9 to 6 regular shift,” she shared.
Keerthy recently married her longtime partner, Antony Thattil and reflected on how the demanding schedule affects personal time and well-being.
Her remarks also draw attention to the long-standing hierarchy of labour within the film industry.
Keerthy emphasised that while many discuss shift timings publicly, few truly understand the pressure behind the camera.
She noted that actors often shoulder expectations that extend well beyond official work hours.
Her perspective adds depth to an ongoing conversation about creating healthier and more humane work structures for artists.
Keerthy’s career achievements continue to reinforce her respected position in Indian cinema.
She has earned one National Film Award, five SIIMA Awards and two Filmfare Awards South during her journey.
She was also recognised in Forbes India’s 30 Under 30 list in 2021 for her contributions to the industry.
Born to producer G. Suresh Kumar and actress Menaka, she began acting as a child before studying fashion design and returning to films.
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