Producer SKN sparked fresh debate in the film industry by praising Rashmika Mandanna as the only major actress willing to work beyond standard hours, in an apparent reference to Deepika Padukone's recent exit from two high-profile projects.
Speaking at the promotional event for Rashmika's upcoming Telugu film The Girlfriend, SKN made pointed remarks about work culture in Indian cinema. "At a time when there's debate on how many hours one should work, there's only one heroine in pan-India who's willing to work however many hours needed," he stated.
The producer elaborated on Rashmika's approach to filmmaking, saying she views work with passion rather than rigid time constraints. "Her commitment is about timing, not strict limits. This is why everyone feels like Rashmika is part of the family," SKN added. The actress appeared visibly moved by the praise, smiling throughout the tribute.
These comments arrive amid ongoing controversy surrounding Deepika Padukone's departure from two major productions—Sandeep Reddy Vanga's Spirit and the sequel to Nag Ashwin's Kalki 2898 AD. Reports suggested her exit stemmed from requesting an eight-hour workday, a decision that ignited fierce debate about labor practices in Indian cinema.
Deepika addressed the controversy directly in a recent interview with CNBC-TV18, defending her position without apology. "By virtue of being a woman, if that's coming across as being pushy or whatever, then so be it," she stated firmly.
The actress highlighted a double standard in the industry's response to her request. She pointed out that numerous prominent male actors have maintained eight-hour work schedules for years without facing criticism or negative media coverage. Deepika also noted that despite being called an industry, filmmaking in India remains remarkably disorganized in many operational aspects.
The debate has divided industry observers. Some argue that standardized work hours represent professional progress and worker protection, while others contend that filmmaking's unpredictable nature requires flexibility from all participants.
SKN's public praise of Rashmika while implicitly criticizing Deepika's stance has added fuel to this discussion. Critics suggest such comparisons pit women against each other rather than addressing systemic workplace issues affecting entire film crews, not just lead actors.
Rashmika maintains a packed schedule ahead. She appeared in Chhaava, Sikandar, and Thamma in Hindi cinema this year, alongside Telugu and Tamil project Kuberaa. Her upcoming release The Girlfriend hits theaters on November 7, followed by Cocktail 2 and Mysaa.
The actress recently made headlines for her engagement to actor Vijay Deverakonda earlier this month, with their wedding planned for February.
As the film industry grapples with questions about sustainable work practices, this public disagreement between two approaches highlights tensions between traditional expectations and evolving professional standards. The outcome may influence how future productions structure their shooting schedules and treat talent across the board.
