The 8-Hour Shift Debate Gains Momentum
The discussion around implementing eight-hour shifts in the Bollywood film industry has once again taken centre stage — this time following Deepika Padukone’s reported exit from Spirit, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga. Her request for shorter working hours, among other conditions, allegedly led to her being replaced by Animal star Triptii Dimri.
Vikrant Massey Voices Support
Now, actor Vikrant Massey — who starred alongside Deepika in Chhapaak — has come forward in support of her demands. In an interview with Firstpost, Vikrant shared that he also aspires to adopt a similar working schedule.
“I want to do that very soon, maybe in a couple of years,” he said. “I’d love to tell filmmakers that I’m happy to collaborate, but I’ll only work for eight hours a day. But of course, it should be a choice — not everyone may be in a position to support it.”
Ready to Cut Fees for Work-Life Balance
Vikrant acknowledged the financial implications of shorter shifts and said he’d be willing to reduce his fees in return. “Money plays a very important role. If I work less, I should charge less. I can’t expect to work only eight hours and still ask for the same pay as someone working twelve.” He also expressed empathy for Deepika’s situation, saying, “As a young mother, I think she deserves it.”
Why Deepika Walked Away from Spirit
Deepika Padukone was initially cast opposite Prabhas in Spirit, but reports suggest she exited after the director refused some of her requests — including an eight-hour workday, profit sharing, and the option to deliver her lines in a language other than Telugu. These creative and logistical differences led to her replacement by Triptii Dimri.
What’s Next for Vikrant and Deepika
While Deepika is yet to announce her next major project post-Spirit, Vikrant Massey is gearing up for the release of Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, a romantic drama inspired by Ruskin Bond’s short story The Eyes Have It. The film, also starring Shanaya Kapoor in her debut, is directed by Santosh Singh and hits theatres on 11 July 2025.