'Fair Demand': Mani Ratnam Supports Deepika Padukone On 8-Hour Shift Amid Spirit Row

The Spirit controversy between Sandeep Reddy Vanga and Deepika Padukone has a new development. While the director wrote an indirect post about actors playing “dirty PR games” after reports surfaced that Deepika had made “unprofessional” demands, which led to her exit from the Prabhas-starrer, several stars weighed in on the issue. The latest is director Mani Ratnam.

Among the reasons behind her exit, one was reportedly Deepika’s demand for an 8-hour shift to balance her personal and professional life.

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During an interview with NDTV for his upcoming Kamal Haasan starrer Thug Life, the filmmaker spoke about the challenges faced by working young mothers.

Describing it as a “fair” demand, the director said, “I think it’s nice when women ask for what they want and get what they want. It’s a very healthy sign.” He also added that the industry should accommodate such requests.

“If it doesn’t fit into your film, move on. But they should be respected for what they are asking. They are making a very fair demand, which is absolutely necessary, so we should acknowledge it and see how to live with it,” he said.

The Ponniyan Selvan director joins several other stars including Kajol, Ajay Devgn, and Saif Ali Khan who supported Deepika.

Recently, Saif Ali Khan said, “I hate coming home and seeing the kids already asleep. That’s not success. Success is being able to say, ‘No, I need to go home now to catch that half hour with them.”

Previously, Ajay Devgn shared his take on the row. Opening up on maintaining work-life balance, the actor-producer noted, “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 hour shifts.”

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Among Deepika’s reported demands were 8-hour work days, Rs 20 crores remuneration, profit-sharing rights and not delivering dialogues in Telugu.

Following the actress’ exit, Vanga officially announced his female lead to be Triptii Dimri. The shooting hasn’t begun, but Triptii will reportedly play the role of a doctor. Further details about the cast and plot are yet to be revealed.