Amid 'Spirit' Exit Buzz, Ajay Devgn Defends Deepika’s 8-Hour Shift Request, Says 'Honest Filmmakers' Won’t Object

Ajay Devgn has voiced his support for Deepika Padukone following her exit from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s 'Spirit', backing her stance on maintaining an 8-hour workday.

Ajay Devgn was asked to comment on Deepika Padukone's reported demands.

Source : Instagram/@ajaydevgn & @deepikapadukone

New Delhi: After news of Deepika Padukone's departure from Sandeep Reddy Vanga's next film 'Spirit' sparked intense internet discussion, actor Ajay Devgn stood out in favour of the actress. The dispute, which has taken over social media discussions lately, revolves around allegations that Deepika made "unprofessional" requests, one of which was allegedly to restrict her work hours to six or eight hours a day.

Ajay Devgn was questioned about Deepika Padukone's widely-discussed request for a shorter workday at the trailer release of 'Maa', a horror film he co-produced and in which Kajol plays the protagonist. 

Ajay Devgn's Statement

In his response, Ajay defended the notion of fair work schedules in the film business. The actor said, "It's not that it's not going down well with people. Most of the honest filmmakers will not have problems with it. And apart from this, being a mother and working for eight hours, most people have started working eight-nine hours shifts."

The actor added, "It's person to person, and I feel most of the industry understands this," indirectly referencing Deepika’s demand for healthier work conditions.

Deepika Padukone Walks Out of Prabhas-Starrer 'Spirit'

The exit is especially noteworthy since 'Spirit' was supposed to be Deepika and Prabhas' second joint venture after 'Kalki 2898 AD'.

With the formal departure of Deepika Padukone from Sandeep Reddy Vanga's much-awaited film 'Spirit', rising actor Triptii Dimri will now play the main role. A flurry of rumours pointing to creative disagreements and what sources have called "unreasonable" contractual demands from the actress have accompanied the casting change.

'Spirit', the upcoming action drama starring Prabhas, is being jointly produced by T-Series and Bhadrakali Pictures. The film will see the pan-India star don the role of a fierce and intense police officer — a character that promises to showcase his gritty side. Currently, the film is in its pre-production phase.