Thu May 29 16:05:26 UTC 2025: **Kajol Backs Shorter Workdays for New Moms Amidst Industry Debate**
**Mumbai, India** – At the trailer launch of her upcoming film “Maa” earlier today, actress Kajol voiced her support for new mothers in the film industry demanding shorter, 8-hour work shifts. The statement comes amidst a heated debate sparked by Deepika Padukone’s departure from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s “Spirit,” reportedly due to her demand for a 6-hour workday after giving birth.
When questioned about the issue, Kajol expressed enthusiasm for the idea of working less. Her husband, actor-director Ajay Devgn, who was also present at the event, chimed in, stating, “It’s not that it is not going down well with people. A lot of people understand. Most of the honest filmmakers would not have a problem with it. Also, other than new moms working for 8 hours, most people have started working for 8 hours. I think it’s person to person, and most of the industry understands.”
The backdrop to this discussion is the controversy surrounding Deepika Padukone’s exit from “Spirit.” Sources claim Padukone asked for a shorter 6-hour shift, a significant salary of Rs 20 crore, and a profit-sharing agreement. Sandeep Reddy Vanga responded strongly to the situation, posting on social media about the actor’s “unprofessional” demands.
Kajol’s “Maa,” set to release on June 27, 2025, ventures into the same dark, thriller-esque universe as her husband’s film “Shaitaan.” The plot centers on a mother’s fight against evil to protect her daughter.
Kajol’s backing of shorter workdays adds fuel to the ongoing conversation about work-life balance for mothers in Bollywood and beyond, highlighting the need for industry flexibility and understanding.
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