Amid recent discussions surrounding Deepika Padukone's advocacy for shorter workdays, particularly for actors and new mothers, acclaimed director SS Rajamouli has offered insights into his own approach to filmmaking and actor management. Padukone's comments, made in a recent interview, highlighted her belief that an eight-hour workday is sufficient for optimal productivity and well-being, a sentiment that emerged following reports of her departure from projects like Spirit and Kalki 2898 AD. These reports suggested disagreements over work conditions, including demands for shorter shifts.
In contrast, during the promotional event for his upcoming film Varanasi starring Mahesh Babu, Rajamouli shared his perspective on work ethics within his productions. While not directly addressing Padukone's statements, he emphasized the dedication and work ethic of his lead actor, Mahesh Babu. He stated that Babu typically works for eight hours a day, implying a balanced approach to filmmaking that prioritizes efficiency without excessive strain.
The Varanasi event, however, wasn't without its own set of challenges. Held at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad, the title reveal and first glimpse announcement faced numerous technical glitches and mismanagement. Rajamouli himself acknowledged the difficulties, citing drone leaks and other unforeseen issues that disrupted the planned surprises. Despite these setbacks, the glimpse of Varanasi was eventually screened, showcasing a time-travel storyline with mythological connections, featuring Mahesh Babu in a fierce avatar.
Rajamouli also revealed that a significant sequence in Varanasi draws inspiration from the Ramayana, requiring 60 days of shooting with elaborate planning and visual imagination. This sequence, he believes, will be a memorable highlight of the film.
Varanasi, which also stars Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj Sukumaran, is slated for a summer 2027 release. The film is described as a mythological adventure thriller, with Mahesh Babu playing the powerful role of Rudhra.
Padukone's advocacy for reasonable working hours comes at a time when the entertainment industry is facing increased scrutiny regarding work-life balance and the well-being of its talent. Her emphasis on supporting new mothers in the workplace also resonates with broader discussions about creating more inclusive and accommodating environments for working parents. She stated that overworking is normalized and mistaken for commitment and eight hours of work is enough for the human body and mind.
While Rajamouli's films are known for their grand scale and intensive production, his remarks about Mahesh Babu's working hours suggest a practical approach to balancing creative ambition with the need for sustainable work practices. The contrasting viewpoints highlight the ongoing dialogue within the film industry regarding the demands placed on actors and the importance of fostering a healthy and productive work environment.
