Kajol and Ajay Devgan Support 8-Hour Workday for Mothers Amid Deepika Padukone’s Spirit Exit
Kajol and Ajay Devgn back 8-hour workdays for moms in Bollywood amid Deepika Padukone’s Spirit exit controversy with director Sandeep Reddy Vanga.
Deepika Padukone’s departure from Spirit, in which she was cast opposite Prabhas, made headlines earlier this year. Though initially believed to be due to salary negotiations, insider reports revealed that her demand for an 8-hour workday was a key sticking point. Deepika, who is navigating the early stages of motherhood, had reportedly asked for more humane and flexible work conditions.
Following her exit, actress Triptii Dimri was officially confirmed as the new female lead in Spirit.
Kajol and Ajay Devgan Weigh In on Shorter Work Hours for Moms
During the Maa trailer event, a journalist asked Kajol and Ajay whether an 8-hour work shift is a reasonable expectation for working mothers in Bollywood.
Kajol responded positively, saying, “I love the idea of being able to work less and…” before being gently interrupted by Ajay. He stepped in to say, “It’s not like the industry isn’t open to change. In fact, many people are understanding it better now. Working mothers should absolutely be able to take on 8 to 9-hour shifts. It really depends on the person, but yes—the industry is evolving.”
Ajay Devgn - "honest filmmakers would not have a problem with a new mother's demand for an 8-hour shift in the industry"
— sohom (@AwaaraHoon) May 29, 2025
Ajay and Kajol supporting Deepika Padukone in this fiasco over Sandeep Reddy Vanga's Spirit. pic.twitter.com/dpPKLSaIyB
Sandeep Reddy Vanga Breaks Silence After Spirit Fallout
The controversy took a sharp turn when parts of Spirit’s story were allegedly leaked online. Director Sandeep Reddy Vanga, known for helming films like Kabir Singh, took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a cryptic yet pointed message.
While he didn’t mention Deepika by name, many believe the post was a veiled attack on her, reigniting debates about professionalism, trust, and gender politics in Bollywood.
When I narrate a story to an actor, I place 100% faith. There is an unsaid NDA(Non Disclosure Agreement) between us. But by doing this, You've 'DISCLOSED' the person that you are....
— Sandeep Reddy Vanga (@imvangasandeep) May 26, 2025
Putting down a Younger actor and ousting my story? Is this what your feminism stands for ? As a…
A Turning Point for Bollywood?
The exchange surrounding Deepika’s request and Kajol-Ajay’s support shines a light on a crucial shift in the Indian film industry. As more female actors embrace motherhood and demand healthier working conditions, the traditional norms of Bollywood are being challenged.
Kajol and Ajay Devgn’s openness to an 8-hour workday for mothers is a promising sign that change—though slow—is coming.
Team KacyWorld
Team KacyWorld
Team KacyWorld
