Does Deepika Padukone's Demand for an Eight-Hour Shift Benefit Small Actors?
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Synopsis
In a revealing interview, veteran actor Deepak Parashar critiques the impact of Deepika Padukone's call for an eight-hour work shift on struggling artists in Bollywood. He highlights the disconnect between top stars and the realities faced by lesser-known actors, advocating for more substantial support and unity within the industry.
Key Takeaways
- Deepika Padukone’s eight-hour shift demand raises questions about its relevance for struggling actors.
- Top stars often remain disconnected from the issues faced by lesser-known artists.
- Senior artists are starting to unite to advocate for change.
- Support from prominent figures during the COVID-19 pandemic was crucial for needy actors.
- A unified organization is essential for effective collective action in the industry.
Mumbai, January 25 (NationPress) – In a candid interview with IANS, esteemed actor Deepak Parashar discussed how Deepika Padukone's advocacy for an eight-hour workday is often irrelevant to lesser-known actors. He emphasized the lack of support from leading stars for struggling artists.
Parashar addressed the issue of prominent figures not participating in significant collective movements. He remarked, “This is why Deepika Padukone stated that she won’t work more than eight hours, and that pregnant artists should be granted leave. She did bring this matter to light.”
However, he pointed out that these concerns do not resonate with those at the pinnacle of the industry. “Most of the top-tier actors do not face issues related to finances, time constraints, or survival. The struggles of lesser-known actors are inconsequential to them as everything revolves around their needs. They are the primary draw,” he explained.
When asked if industry elites would ever take to the streets to advocate for struggling actors, Parashar said, “Which of them would actually stand up for these deserving artists? I doubt that will ever happen.”
He also noted that senior artists are now the ones attempting to effect change. “For the first time, well-known figures like Poonam Dhillon, Padmini Kolhapuri, Upasana Singh, myself, and others are uniting. All of us have over 40 years of experience in this industry. I have dedicated 46 years to it, and we are striving to tackle these issues,” he stated.
Parashar acknowledged the assistance provided by various stars during the COVID-19 pandemic. “During COVID, individuals like Hrithik Roshan made significant contributions. Thanks to their support, we were able to provide rations and resources to needy actors. Sonu Sood, Salman Khan through his organization, Shah Rukh Khan, and Akshay Kumar also contributed immensely,” he mentioned.
Nevertheless, he stressed that widespread collective action is challenging in the absence of a consolidated organization. “If a proper Cine Artists Association existed, perhaps we could have achieved this. But now, with television joining the mix, the industry has expanded significantly,” Parashar remarked.
In conclusion, he expressed hope that political leaders could help resolve these issues, stating, “Our only hope now rests with Modi ji, Amit Shah ji, and an admirable individual, Arun Govil ji.”
For those unfamiliar, Deepak Parashar has been a prominent figure in the entertainment sector for nearly five decades and is recognized as one of Bollywood's finest veteran actors.
–IANS
Point of View
The voices of senior artists like Parashar are crucial in advocating for meaningful change and addressing disparities.
NationPress
25/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Deepak Parashar's opinion on Deepika Padukone's eight-hour shift demand?
Deepak Parashar believes that while Deepika Padukone's demand for an eight-hour work shift is commendable, it does not significantly impact struggling actors.
Why do leading stars rarely support struggling artists?
Parashar suggests that the top stars are often disconnected from the issues faced by lesser-known actors, as they do not encounter the same financial or survival struggles.
What role do senior artists play in advocating for change?
Senior artists like Deepak Parashar are coming together to address the challenges faced by struggling actors, aiming to bring about change within the industry.
How did stars help during the COVID-19 pandemic?
During the pandemic, various stars, including Hrithik Roshan and Sonu Sood, provided significant support to help needy actors with rations and resources.
What is the future of collective action in Bollywood?
Parashar points out that without a unified organization like a Cine Artists Association, large-scale collective action will be difficult to achieve in the diverse and expanding industry.
