Kajol Speaks Out on Work-Life Balance Amid Deepika Padukone Controversy
By M Muzamil Shami - June 15, 2025
Kajol Opens Up About Work-Life Balance During Promotions for 'Maa'
Bollywood Star Shares How She Managed Work Hours Amid Deepika Padukone's 8-Hour Shift Controversy
Veteran Bollywood actress Kajol has candidly spoken about her experience balancing family and film commitments during the promotional events for her upcoming film Maa. Her comments come at a time when actress Deepika Padukone's clash with filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga over demanding 8-hour workdays has created a buzz in the film industry.
Kajol Reflects on Her Career Philosophy
A One-Film-At-A-Time Work Ethic
Kajol revealed she has always prioritized a sustainable work schedule. Unlike the marathon shooting hours often common in Bollywood, Kajol said:
"I didn't work for 20 or 30 hours. I was always very clear that we would work a certain amount only."
She emphasized she preferred working on one film at a time, ensuring better quality output and peace of mind.
Producers Were Supportive and Understanding
The actress fondly recalled that her producers over the years had been "very understanding" of her need to strike a balance. Especially after the birth of her daughter Nysa, Kajol discussed the matter seriously with her husband, actor-producer Ajay Devgn.
"He worked around it to make sure that I went home early, so I could go to the hospital."
This support was evident during the filming of U Me Aur Hum, when her father was hospitalized and her daughter was just two years old.
Industry Buzz: Deepika Padukone’s 8-Hour Shift Demand
While Kajol did not directly support or oppose Deepika Padukone’s stance, her insights added depth to the ongoing industry conversation. The controversy centers around Deepika’s demand for 8-hour filming schedules, which some view as bold and overdue, while others consider it unfeasible in a high-budget, high-pressure environment.
Kajol’s non-confrontational tone suggests there are ways to balance both perspectives when producers and talent communicate openly.
About the Film 'Maa'
Directed by Vishal Furia and written by Saiwyn Quadras, Maa is an intense mythological horror drama set to release on June 27 in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Bengali.
The film is produced by Ajay Devgn, Jyoti Deshpande, and Kumar Mangat Pathak, under Jio Studios and Devgn Films. The music is composed by Harsh Upadhyay, Rocky Khanna, and Shiv Malhotra.
Star-Studded Cast
Joining Kajol in the cast are:
Ronit Roy
Indraneil Sengupta
Jitin Gulati
Gopal Singh
Surjyasikha Das
Yaaneea Bharadwaj
Roopkatha Chakraborty
Kherin Sharma
FAQs:
Q1: What did Kajol say about Deepika Padukone's 8-hour shift controversy?
A: Kajol didn’t take sides but shared her own positive experience managing shorter work hours with understanding producers.
Q2: Did Kajol criticize or support Deepika?
A: She remained neutral and emphasized how work-life balance is possible through mutual respect and planning.
Q3: When will 'Maa' be released?
A: The film hits theatres on June 27 in multiple languages including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Bengali.
Q4: Who is producing 'Maa'?
A: The movie is produced by Ajay Devgn, Jyoti Deshpande, and Kumar Mangat Pathak.
Do you think celebrities deserve more structured work hours like other professionals? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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