Kajol and Ajay Devgn’s Powerful Take on Deepika Padukone’s 8-Hour Work Shift Demand During Motherhood

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Bollywood, a realm of glitz, drama, and relentless schedules, often places immense pressure on its stars, especially when personal milestones like motherhood intersect with professional commitments. Recently, a conversation between Kajol and Ajay Devgn, two of Bollywood’s most respected figures, shed light on a progressive demand made by Deepika Padukone—an 8-hour work shift for new mothers in the film industry. As of June 2025, this discussion has sparked widespread interest, not only for its relevance to working mothers but also for the empathy and understanding it reflects. Kajol and Ajay’s reactions, coupled with their own experiences as parents in the industry, offer a deeply inspiring perspective on balancing family and career. Let’s dive into their thoughts and explore how this dialogue is reshaping perceptions of motherhood in Bollywood.

Kajol’s Empathetic Stance on Deepika’s Demand

During the candid conversation, Kajol, a veteran actress and mother of two, was asked for her opinion on Deepika Padukone’s request for an 8-hour work shift as a new mother. Kajol’s response was both heartfelt and pragmatic, reflecting her deep understanding of the challenges faced by working mothers. She began by recalling her own experience of shooting My Name Is Khan when her daughter Nysa was just one year old, highlighting the personal sacrifices often required in the industry. However, she expressed genuine admiration for the idea of shorter work hours, stating, “I love the fact that if you can work less…” Her words trailed off briefly, acknowledging the mixed reactions this demand has received from the public and industry insiders.

Kajol noted that while some may not take kindly to such a request, many filmmakers are supportive. “A lot of people do understand… most honest filmmakers will not have a problem with this,” she said. Her perspective underscores a shift in the industry, where empathy for personal circumstances is slowly gaining ground over rigid schedules. She further elaborated that working 8 to 9-hour shifts has become more common in recent times, suggesting that the industry is adaptable and often person-specific in its approach. Kajol’s balanced view—acknowledging both the resistance and the acceptance—paints a picture of an evolving Bollywood, one that is beginning to prioritize the well-being of its artists, especially mothers.

Ajay Devgn’s Subtle Support and Industry Insights

Ajay Devgn, known for his stoic demeanor and powerful on-screen presence, offered a more reserved yet equally meaningful perspective during the discussion. While Kajol took the lead in addressing the motherhood and work balance issue, Ajay’s presence in the conversation added weight to the dialogue. His subtle nods and brief interjections hinted at a shared understanding of the demands of the film industry. As a father and a filmmaker himself, Ajay’s silence on the specific issue spoke volumes—he neither opposed nor overtly championed the idea, but his participation in the conversation signaled a willingness to engage with progressive ideas.

Ajay’s contribution to the discussion also veered into his professional choices, offering a glimpse into how personal and career decisions often intertwine. When asked about his role in a supernatural horror film and whether he considered cameos, Ajay emphasized the importance of a film’s story and characters over personal inclinations. “Every film has its own story and characters… it depends from film to film,” he remarked. This insight reflects a broader theme of adaptability—a quality that resonates with the discussion on accommodating new mothers like Deepika. Ajay’s focus on the narrative over personal gain mirrors the need for the industry to adapt its narrative around working mothers, ensuring their stories are told with the same respect and consideration.

Deepika Padukone’s Bold Demand: A Catalyst for Change

Deepika Padukone’s request for an 8-hour work shift during motherhood is more than a personal plea; it’s a bold statement challenging long-standing norms in Bollywood. The film industry is notorious for its grueling schedules, often requiring actors to work 12-16 hour days, leaving little room for personal life. For new mothers, this can be particularly daunting, as they navigate the physical and emotional demands of parenting alongside professional commitments. Deepika’s demand, therefore, is a call for systemic change, urging filmmakers to reconsider how they structure work hours to accommodate life’s most transformative phases.

This request has not been without controversy. As Kajol pointed out, it hasn’t “gone down well” with everyone. Critics argue that shorter shifts could disrupt production timelines and budgets, especially in an industry driven by tight schedules and high stakes. However, supporters—including Kajol—highlight that many filmmakers are open to the idea, recognizing the long-term benefits of a healthier, more balanced workforce. Deepika’s stance is inspiring not just for its audacity but for its potential to pave the way for future generations of actresses who wish to embrace motherhood without sacrificing their careers.

Kajol’s Journey as a Working Mother: A Beacon of Inspiration

Kajol’s personal anecdotes during the conversation added a layer of relatability to the discussion. Her recollection of working on My Name Is Khan with a toddler at home serves as a testament to the resilience of working mothers in Bollywood. Yet, her support for reduced hours shows an evolved perspective—one that values personal well-being over relentless hustle. Kajol’s journey, from being a young mother balancing blockbuster roles to now advocating for better working conditions, is deeply inspiring. It reminds us that change often starts with those who’ve lived through the challenges and are willing to speak up for others.

Her approach to acting, as discussed later in the conversation, also mirrors this balance. When asked about the intensity she brings to her roles, Kajol revealed that she doesn’t believe in over-preparation. “My preparation is more subconscious than conscious,” she explained, crediting the script, director, and team for contributing to her on-screen intensity. This spontaneity and trust in collaboration reflect a broader life lesson—sometimes, the best outcomes come from adapting to circumstances rather than over-controlling them. For working mothers, this could mean trusting that shorter work hours won’t diminish their impact but could, in fact, enhance their contributions through renewed energy and focus.

The Industry’s Role in Supporting Mothers

The dialogue around Deepika’s demand, amplified by Kajol and Ajay’s reactions, underscores the film industry’s critical role in supporting working mothers. Bollywood, as a cultural influencer, has the power to set precedents that ripple across other sectors. By embracing flexible schedules, filmmakers can create a more inclusive environment, ensuring that talent isn’t lost to the challenges of motherhood. Kajol’s optimism about “most of the industry understanding” this need is a hopeful sign, suggesting that change is not just possible but already underway.

This shift also aligns with broader societal trends toward work-life balance. Globally, industries are recognizing the importance of accommodating personal milestones, whether through maternity leave, flexible hours, or remote work options. Bollywood, with its unique blend of art and commerce, can lead by example, showing that creativity thrives when artists are supported holistically. Deepika’s demand, backed by voices like Kajol’s, could be the tipping point for a more empathetic industry—one where mothers aren’t forced to choose between their children and their craft.

Lessons in Empathy and Adaptation

Kajol and Ajay Devgn’s reactions to Deepika Padukone’s 8-hour shift demand offer profound lessons in empathy and adaptation. Kajol’s vocal support, grounded in her own experiences, reminds us that understanding others’ struggles is the first step toward meaningful change. Her acknowledgment of mixed reactions while championing the cause reflects a nuanced understanding of progress—it’s rarely linear, but every step forward counts. Ajay’s quieter presence, meanwhile, shows that support doesn’t always need to be loud; sometimes, standing beside a cause is enough to lend it strength.

Their combined narrative also inspires us to adapt to changing times. Just as Ajay approaches each film based on its unique story, the industry must tailor its practices to the unique needs of its people. For new mothers, this means redefining success not by hours worked but by the quality of contributions made. Deepika’s request, Kajol’s endorsement, and Ajay’s implicit support collectively paint a picture of a Bollywood ready to evolve—one that values its artists as individuals with personal lives as rich and complex as the characters they portray.

The conversation between Kajol and Ajay Devgn on Deepika Padukone’s demand for an 8-hour work shift during motherhood is a powerful reminder of the intersection between personal and professional spheres in Bollywood. Kajol’s empathetic stance, rooted in her own journey as a working mother, and Ajay’s subtle support highlight the potential for change in an industry often bound by tradition. As of June 2025, this dialogue is not just a headline but a catalyst, inspiring a reevaluation of how Bollywood supports its stars through life’s milestones. Deepika’s bold request, amplified by Kajol’s voice, challenges us to envision a future where motherhood and career coexist harmoniously. Here’s to a Bollywood that leads with empathy, ensuring that every artist—mother or otherwise—can shine both on and off the screen.