Mumbai, 25 January – The debate over work shifts in Hindi cinema has intensified in recent months. Following actress Deepika Padukone’s demand for an eight-hour shift after becoming a mother, the matter has once again come under the spotlight. In a candid conversation with Daily Kiran, veteran actor Deepak Parashar shared insights into the inner realities of the industry and the challenges faced by struggling artists. He also appealed for support from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.
Speaking to Daily Kiran, Deepak Parashar acknowledged that Deepika Padukone’s demand for an eight-hour shift is valid in its own right. However, he emphasized that such measures do not directly benefit the artists who struggle daily to find work. “For top-tier actors, time, money, and work are rarely issues. They have the freedom to set their own terms. But for those who play smaller roles or are fighting for their livelihood, these decisions do not bring change,” he said.
Parashar further remarked that the industry revolves around stars who are the primary box office and TRP draws. He questioned whether these leading actors would ever openly support the rights of less privileged artists.
He pointed out that big names in the industry are unlikely to take to the streets for protests. “Those in comfortable positions avoid stepping out of their secure world to fight the battles of struggling artists. This is why a strong, collective movement has not yet emerged,” he explained.
Highlighting recent positive developments, Parashar mentioned that senior actors are now taking initiative. “For the first time, experienced artists like Poonam Dhillon, Padmini Kolhapure, and Upasana Singh, who have worked in the industry for four to five decades, have come together. Based on their experience, they are trying to address the problems faced by needy artists,” he said.
Reflecting on his own journey, Deepak Parashar noted that after 46 years in the industry, he wishes for the coming generation to be spared the hardships he and his peers have endured.
He also recalled the support extended during the COVID-19 pandemic. “In those difficult times, many leading stars showed compassion. With Hrithik Roshan’s help, essential supplies reached needy artists. Sonu Sood helped on a large scale, and Salman Khan supported through his foundation. Shah Rukh Khan and Akshay Kumar also provided financial and social assistance. While the support was significant on a personal level, it could not replace a permanent system,” Parashar said.
Expressing concern over the absence of a strong, unified artists’ association, he added that the industry has expanded beyond films to include television and digital platforms, making it difficult to bring all artists under one umbrella and raise a collective voice. This fragmentation has hindered large-scale unified action so far.
Deepak Parashar expressed hope that a lasting solution to artists’ problems can only come from institutional and political levels. “Our last hope lies with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and actor-turned-politician Arun Govil, who can take concrete steps at the policy and systemic levels to support us,” he concluded.
My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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