Aditya Dhar's Praise Sparks Debate on Bollywood Work Culture

Filmmaker Aditya Dhar recently heaped praise on Ranveer Singh, highlighting his incredible dedication during the making of the film Dhurandhar. Dhar revealed that Singh, among other cast and crew members, worked an astonishing 16 to 18 hours a day. While this was meant to showcase the commitment of the team, it sparked a significant debate regarding the work culture in Bollywood.

Many social media users criticized these long working hours, labeling them as exploitative rather than something to be proud of. This online conversation gained traction due to actress Deepika Padukone’s recent advocacy for shorter, structured work shifts in the industry. Some users speculated whether Dhar's remarks were indirectly aimed at her, especially given her past experiences advocating for a better work-life balance.

During the film's trailer launch at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre, Dhar expressed how the project reunited a passionate team after a five-year hiatus from his directing career. He emphasized the hard work and dedication of every cast member, stating, "Everyone worked nonstop for one-and-a-half years.” However, the praise soon turned into a platform for discussing the pressures actors face in the industry.

Deepika Padukone had previously stepped away from projects like Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit, citing her demand for an 8-hour workday as a new mother. Her stance has led to a divide in opinions, with some supporting her request for reasonable working conditions, while others believe it contradicts the traditional expectations of the film industry.

The reactions to Dhar’s comments reflect a growing awareness and concern about work culture in Bollywood. Many believe that long hours should not be normalized, especially when it leads to burnout and affects personal lives. The film Dhurandhar, featuring an ensemble cast that includes Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, R. Madhavan, and Akshaye Khanna alongside Ranveer Singh, is set to release in theaters on December 5.

As the film approaches its release, audiences are left wondering how this conversation will influence the future of work culture in Bollywood and whether it will lead to meaningful changes. With Deepika’s advocacy gaining traction, it remains to be seen how the industry will respond to these evolving expectations.