
As debates continue to swirl around Deepika Padukone’s reported demand for an 8-hour workday, and her subsequent replacement in Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit, actor-director Deepak Tijori has come out in strong support of the actress. Deepika, who exited the Prabhas-starrer reportedly over schedule-related issues, has now been replaced by Animal actress Triptii Dimri.While the conversation has divided Bollywood, Tijori believes it’s a much-needed evolution in the way the film industry functions.“It’s justified”: Deepak Tijori on Deepika’s stanceSpeaking to India Today, Tijori said, “It’s justified. Back then, we didn’t have nuclear families. We lived in joint families, and there were always other members around to help take care of the children. Today, that support system is missing. If you’re living alone with your spouse and have a child, you have to manage everything yourself.”Tijori, who has been part of the industry since the 90s, added that parenting today involves a different kind of responsibility. “Having a baby today is not the same as it was back then—you have to take responsibility. Parenting today is a very different ballgame. Times have changed.”
“Not a hobby—it’s a job”Reflecting on how film shoots often stretch for 14–16 hours a day, Tijori acknowledged that while earlier generations may have tolerated these conditions, the new wave of actors is simply drawing the line, and rightly so.“Those who are demanding better conditions—they have their reasons. They don’t have the kind of time we had. They’re still working long hours, but today’s generation is more vocal about their boundaries, and that’s fair. It’s not a hobby—it’s a job, it’s a responsibility,” he said.