Mumbai, Jan 6 (NationPress) Actress Chitrangda Singh has joined the increasing dialogue concerning structured shift timings on film sets, emphasizing that while actors are generally well-catered for, it is crucial to expand the discussion to encompass the crew members who are the true backbone of the film industry.

When asked about her views on the significance of regulated shift timings for both mental and physical health, the actress stated to IANS: “I think it definitely is important. Actors are still very well taken care of. There is a lot of, you know, regard for their time, for their comfort. Usually producers, as much as they can, and directors try to work around their time.”

Chitrangda shared insights from her experience, pointing out that technicians like light men, art department staff, and set workers often endure much longer hours than visible on camera.

“But I feel what we also need to discuss is probably the light men, the set guys, who, the art and all these guys, because for a nine o'clock shift, if I come at seven for hair and makeup, they are there from 5.30 in the morning or not, maybe five in the morning, and then they're the last ones to go and the first ones to come.”

She noted that long travel distances and limited transport options contribute to their fatigue.

“I feel that it's very, very tough, you know, most of the time they're sleeping on sets, poor guys. So that kind of regularization is something that I think actors should be pushing for.”

According to Chitrangda, actors should actively advocate for this change, transforming it into a collective industry concern.

“I think that is a far more important conversation. Yeah, that is what maybe we should address as, you know, I don't know, as a thought to the well-being of every person in the industry and not just the actors.”

Responding to the notion that structured work hours could stifle creativity, Chitrangda disagreed, asserting that better working hours lead to enhanced efficiency and productivity.

“Better working hours will definitely help everybody. There is no doubt about that. There is no doubt about that, that better working hours will improve everybody's efficiency.”

Simultaneously, she acknowledged the practical realities of filmmaking.

Chitrangda remarked: “But at the same time, sometimes there are small budget films, there are mid-budget films, and they have to look at the business end of it as well. So, that also has to be considered. I mean, it's not a corporate job. I think that is something one needs to be very clear about.”

She added that filmmaking often necessitates flexibility, particularly during writing and editing phases that can extend late into the night.

“We cannot put the same kind of corporate rules to the film industry. So, there has to be a mature call on everything. You know, a balanced call is what I mean.”