Amid Deepika Padukone's 8-Hour Shift Demand, Chitrangda Singh Advocates for Industry-Wide Shift Regularization, Highlighting Crew Members' Well-being
Mumbai:
Chitrangda Singh, a renowned actress, has joined the ongoing debate about regulated shift timings on film sets, emphasizing that while actors are well-cared for, the conversation should expand to include crew members, who are the backbone of the film industry.
In an interview with IANS, when asked about the importance of regulated shift timings for mental and physical well-being, Chitrangda shared her insights. She stated, 'It's definitely crucial. Actors are well-taken care of, but we should also consider the crew. Producers and directors often respect their time and comfort, but the crew members, like lighting technicians, art department staff, and set workers, often work much longer hours. For instance, they're there from early morning, even before the main cast arrives, and they're the last to leave and the first to arrive.'
Chitrangda further highlighted the challenges faced by crew members, including long travel distances and limited transport options, which contribute to their exhaustion. She suggested that regularizing shift timings could significantly improve their well-being, as many crew members often sleep on sets due to the demanding nature of their work.
The actress believes that actors should actively advocate for this change, making it a priority for the entire industry. She stated, 'It's a more significant conversation that we should address for the well-being of everyone in the industry, not just the actors.'
Addressing the concern that structured work hours might hinder creativity, Chitrangda firmly disagreed. She argued that better working hours lead to improved efficiency and productivity. 'Better working hours will undoubtedly benefit everyone,' she asserted.
However, Chitrangda also acknowledged the practical realities of the film industry. She mentioned that small and mid-budget films often have to consider financial constraints, and flexibility is essential during writing and editing phases that frequently extend late into the night. She emphasized the need for a balanced approach, stating, 'We cannot impose strict corporate rules on the film industry. A mature and balanced decision is required.'
This debate comes as Deepika Padukone has sparked discussions by advocating for 8-hour work shifts for male superstars, highlighting the need for industry-wide regularization to ensure the well-being of all crew members and actors alike.
