Actor Adivi Sesh has shared his perspective on the reported dispute between Deepika Padukone and director Sandeep Reddy Vanga over working hours that led to her exit from the film ‘Spirit.’ Speaking with Pinkvilla, Sesh emphasized that filmmaking operates outside conventional work schedules.

No Fixed Rules in Cinema

Sesh argued that the film industry doesn’t follow standard workplace regulations when it comes to working hours. “What is agreed upon between a filmmaker and his actors is the only thing that matters. There is no rule per se,” he stated.

He explained that film shoots can vary dramatically in duration: “Because film is made for 12 hours, 18 hours, 6 hours, it is their wish. It is being oversimplified if you are saying that work needs to be 8-6 hours.”

Industry Reality Check

The actor stressed that cinema production differs fundamentally from regular employment. “This is not 9 to 5 work,” Sesh said, highlighting the unpredictable nature of film schedules.

His comments reflect the industry’s long-standing culture of flexible and often extended working hours to accommodate creative and logistical demands.

Response to Motherhood Considerations

When asked about Deepika’s demands being linked to her recent motherhood, Sesh maintained a practical stance. He emphasized that any working arrangements should be established upfront through mutual agreement.

“As far as I am concerned, I think it’s entirely based on the agreement between the filmmaker and the actor,” he explained.

Budget and Schedule Concerns

Sesh raised practical questions about accommodating restricted working hours. “If 20 more days get added to the schedule and the budget is not there, how do they accommodate it?” he asked.

This highlights the financial implications of modifying traditional filming schedules to meet individual actor preferences.

Prior Agreement Importance

The actor stressed that all working conditions should be negotiated before production begins. “I think whatever it should be, it should be agreed upon beforehand. Motherhood or otherwise,” he added.

This approach would prevent conflicts during filming and ensure both parties understand their commitments.

Background of the Controversy

Earlier reports suggested that Deepika exited ‘Spirit’ after Sandeep Reddy Vanga rejected several demands, including an 8-hour work shift, profit sharing, and not delivering lines in Telugu.

Triptii Dimri eventually replaced Deepika in the film opposite Prabhas. Deepika subsequently joined filmmaker Atlee for a sci-fi project with Allu Arjun.

Industry Work-Life Balance Debate

The controversy sparked broader discussions about work-life balance in the entertainment industry, particularly for actors who are new parents.

Different perspectives emerged on whether the industry should adapt to accommodate personal circumstances or maintain traditional working methods.

Sesh’s Upcoming Projects

The actor has several films in development, including ‘Dacoit’ with Mrunal Thakur, directed by Shaneil Deo. The film, also featuring Anurag Kashyap, is being shot simultaneously in Hindi and Telugu.

Sesh will also appear in ‘G2’ alongside Emraan Hashmi and Wamiqa Gabbi. The Telugu drama, directed by debut filmmaker Vinay Kumar Sirigineedi, is scheduled for release on May 1, 2026.

Industry Standards Question

Sesh’s comments reflect ongoing tensions between evolving workplace expectations and traditional film industry practices. His perspective suggests that individual negotiations remain more important than industry-wide policy changes.

The debate highlights challenges the entertainment industry faces in balancing creative demands with personal needs of cast and crew members.

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