Sonakshi Sinha supports Deepika Padukone’s Spirit Exit

Sonakshi Sinha has joined Ajay Devgn and Kajol in supporting Deepika Padukone’s decision to walk away from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit.

It was reported that Deepika exited the upcoming film after he refused her terms.

Reports say she asked for a limited workday, a share in profits, and to not speak her lines in Telugu. She was later replaced by Animal star Triptii Dimri.

Sandeep appeared to later throw shade at Deepika as a cryptic tweet spoke of “putting down a younger actor” and “dirty PR games“.

Sonakshi shared her views and defended the demand for better work conditions.

She said: “I don’t even know if it is true or not. But if it is, it’s a very fair reason.

“I have worked with actors who don’t work beyond eight hours. So, I don’t see why it should be any different for female actors as well.”

The eight-hour shift debate has been gaining traction in Bollywood. It follows long-standing concerns about work-life balance and unequal treatment of actors on set.

Sonakshi Sinha acknowledged that each project has unique demands, but stressed that planning makes a limited workday possible.

She continued: “It also depends on the requirements of the project and all.

“You can schedule it in a way where you accommodate those hours. There are a lot of other things to shoot with other people, which you can finish off in the same time. I think it’s very achievable.”

Sonakshi also reflected on her 15-year career and how working hours vary between actors. She emphasised the need for personal time, especially when physical preparation is crucial.

“But you do need time for yourself beyond shoot as well. If I am doing a film where I am required to be extremely fit, I need those two hours to go to the gym.

“Well, if you put me on set for 12 to 14 hours, I won’t be able to do it.”

The conversation around work hours has become more prominent as top female stars speak out about industry expectations.

With Sonakshi Sinha adding her voice to the debate, the push for structural change in Bollywood appears to be gaining momentum.