Deepika Padukone Says Big-Budget Films No Longer Drive Her Choices: ‘We Mistake Burnout For Commitment’

Deepika Padukone, one of Bollywood’s most influential voices on fair work culture and equal pay, has entered a new phase in her career one where massive budgets and box-office milestones no longer define her decisions. After stepping away from two highly anticipated projects alongside Prabhas, the actor has opened up about why even ₹500-crore spectacles no longer excite her.

In a recent interview with Harper’s Bazaar, Deepika said she’s choosing purpose and authenticity over scale. “At this stage, it’s not about that anymore. It’s not about the ₹100-crore films, or even the ₹500–₹600 crore ones,” she explained, adding that she now seeks roles and collaborations that feel genuine.

Deepika revealed that her priorities have shifted toward supporting and nurturing fresh creative talent. Having already backed films like Chhapaak and 83 under KA Productions, she shared that empowering writers, directors, and young producers now gives her greater satisfaction than big-budget blockbusters.

“What excites me is enabling storytelling,” she said. “Sometimes people offer a lot of money and think that’s enough, but it isn’t. And the reverse is also true some things may not be commercially big, but I believe in the people or the message.”

Reflecting on her journey, she admitted she didn't always have this clarity. “Do I sometimes look back and think, ‘What was I thinking?’ Of course. But right now, my choices feel honest.”

Deepika also addressed a longstanding issue in the industry the glorification of overworking. As one of India’s highest-paid stars, she emphasized that long, punishing schedules are neither sustainable nor a sign of commitment.

“We have normalised overworking. We mistake burnout for commitment. Eight hours of work a day is enough for the human body and mind,” she said, stressing the importance of mental and physical well-being on set. According to earlier reports, her exit from Nag Ashwin’s Kalki 2898 AD sequel and Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit was partly due to her firm stance on fair working hours and equal pay.

Even as she steps away from certain projects, Deepika continues to headline major ones. She is now reuniting with Shah Rukh Khan for King, marking yet another collaboration in their long-standing professional partnership.

Meanwhile, Kalki 2898 AD, helmed by Nag Ashwin and featuring Amitabh Bachchan in a pivotal role, continues production.

Deepika’s recent statements reflect a broader shift in Bollywood where well-being, purpose-driven storytelling, and work-life balance are finally being acknowledged as essential, not optional.