Shefali Shah, known for her powerful performances and remarkable range, continues to be one of the most respected Bollywood actors. With projects like Delhi Crime redefining storytelling on screen, she has always chosen substance over glamour. As she prepares for the third season of Delhi Crime, Shefali has opened up about a growing issue in the film industry, the demand for shorter, more humane working hours.
In a recent interview, Shefali Shah said that the conversation around eight-hour shifts in Bollywood is long overdue. She explained that while actors and crew members understand that certain situations — such as location issues or last-minute changes, may require flexibility, long workdays should not become the norm. She described how exhausting the current schedules can be, pointing out that she spends nearly three hours each day just commuting to and from sets. After long shooting hours, she still has to work out, review scripts and prepare for the next day. She said that the lack of rest affects both mental and physical performances, making it nearly impossible to show up at her best every day.
Shefali Shah also highlighted that extended hours take a toll not just on actors but on the entire crew. Recalling one of her recent film shoots, she mentioned that assistant directors often felt relieved when she wrapped up her scenes because her exit meant they could finally go home. She pointed out the unfairness of the situation, noting that many crew members don’t receive extra pay for overtime despite putting in long hours.
Taking a subtle jab at the industry’s double standards, Shefali Shah questioned how discussions about shift limits could even be taken seriously when some male actors are known to arrive late on set. According to her, such delays are rarely called out or considered when calculating working hours.
The debate over work-life balance in Bollywood gained momentum earlier this year after reports surfaced that Deepika Padukone was dropped from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit due to her request for eight-hour workdays, a higher fee and a share in the film’s profits. Deepika, who recently became a mother, was reportedly seeking to balance her professional and personal commitments.
Several actors have since spoken in her support. Vikrant Massey, Rashmika Mandanna, Yami Gautam and Anurag Basu have all emphasised the need for communication and flexibility within teams. Rashmika noted that discussions about flexible work hours are not just about comfort but about understanding what works best for everyone involved.
Through her candid remarks, Shefali Shah has added a powerful voice to an industry-wide conversation, one that challenges Bollywood to rethink its demanding schedules and create a more balanced, humane work culture for everyone on set.
