The ongoing debate around actor Deepika Padukone’s remarks on implementing 8-hour work shifts in the film industry has drawn a range of reactions from Bollywood and beyond. The latest to comment is actress-turned-politician Smriti Irani, who shared her views on professional ethics, accountability, and the importance of honoring work commitments.

“Professional Commitment Cannot Be Ignored,” Says Smriti Irani

In a conversation with India Today, the Union Minister emphasized that discipline and responsibility are non-negotiable in any profession, including cinema.

“One cannot simply decide not to honour the producer’s commitment or skip work because they ‘don’t feel like it’. Such behaviour is professionally unacceptable,” Irani said.

She added that while creative freedom is important, the film industry must also prioritize market value alongside artistic goals.

“Deepika Padukone’s Demand Is Personal”

When asked specifically about Deepika Padukone’s comments, Smriti Irani described the issue as “personal and individual”, suggesting that some controversies are “manufactured to sell.”

“I would not be naive enough to get involved in such stupidity,” she remarked, distancing herself from the sensationalism surrounding the debate.

Irani Recalls Working Through Two Pregnancies

Reflecting on her own experience as an actor, Smriti Irani recalled working during her pregnancies while shooting for Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi.

“I worked through two pregnancies with a female producer. I was adamant about making her successful because it was my responsibility as an actor to ensure the show kept running,” she said.

Irani noted that an actor’s absence affects not just producers but also the hundreds of crew members dependent on the project.

“If I don’t turn up for work, 120 people do not get a pay cheque that day. It’s unfair to 120 families,” she added.

“Take Responsibility for Your Choices”

Irani also touched upon the theme of personal accountability, saying that balancing family and career comes with inherent obligations.

“If I chose to have a child, then I must take responsibility first,” she stated.

On the Work Front

Smriti Irani has returned to television with Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu 2, reprising her iconic role as Tulsi Virani.
Deepika Padukone, meanwhile, is working on Siddharth Anand’s upcoming film King, which stars Shah Rukh Khan, Suhana Khan, and Abhishek Bachchan.