Ajay Devgn and Kajol React to Deepika Padukone’s Reported Exit from Spirit Over Work Hour Clause

The ongoing controversy surrounding Deepika Padukone's reported departure from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s upcoming film Spirit has stirred notable discussion within the film industry. Allegations have surfaced suggesting that Padukone’s exit was prompted by her specific work-related conditions, particularly concerning her working hours, following her new role as a mother.

According to reports, the actress had requested that her daily work schedule be limited to a maximum of eight hours. Additionally, she reportedly asked for extra compensation for any shooting schedule extending beyond 100 days—terms that were allegedly not accepted by the filmmaker. These demands are said to have led to her removal from the project, with actress Triptii Dimri later announced as the new female lead.

At the trailer launch event of Maa, Kajol’s upcoming film, veteran actor Ajay Devgn was asked about the industry’s response to the notion of limiting workdays to eight hours. He remarked, "It's not that it's not going down well with people." He further explained, "Most 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."

Kajol, who is herself a mother of two, responded with her trademark wit, saying, "I love the fact that you can work less."

While both actors refrained from naming anyone directly, Ajay concluded with a broader perspective: "It's person to person, and I feel most of the industry understands this."

Neither Deepika Padukone nor Sandeep Reddy Vanga has officially commented on the reported fallout, but the matter has sparked a wider conversation on working conditions, especially for female actors balancing career and motherhood.