ENTERTAINMENT Iqra Aziz Deepika Padukone Work-Life Balance Albert October 10, 2025 0 Comments

Iqra Aziz Backs Deepika Padukone’s 8-Hour Workday | A Working Mom’s Perspective

Here’s the thing: it’s not every day that Bollywood and Pakistani entertainment industries seem to be on the same page. But when it comes to the grueling demands of balancing work and family, especially as a mom, the struggle is universal. So, when Pakistani actress Iqra Aziz voiced her support for Deepika Padukone’s recent comments about the need for an 8-hour workday, it resonated deeply, and not just with other actresses. It sparked a much-needed conversation about work-life balance , especially for working mothers.

But what fascinates me is why this seemingly simple statement became so impactful. It’s not just about clocking in fewer hours. It’s about the recognition, validation, and systemic changes needed to support working parents – something that’s often overlooked in both the glitzy world of entertainment and in the everyday lives of countless women in India.

Why Iqra’s Support Matters | More Than Just a Headline

Let’s be honest, celebrity endorsements can often feel shallow, another name added to a social media trend. But Iqra Aziz’s support feels different. Why? Because she’s a mother herself. And parenting responsibilities in the entertainment industry are often downplayed. It adds a layer of authenticity. She’s not just agreeing with a sentiment; she’s living the reality. This is especially true in cultures where women are still often expected to shoulder the majority of childcare responsibilities.

So, what exactly did Deepika say? She advocated for a standard 8-hour workday, a concept that seems revolutionary to many in the demanding film industry. It’s a simple idea, but its implementation could have a profound effect on the well-being of actors, crew members, and everyone involved in the filmmaking process. Deepika Padukone advocating for better working conditions can impact the entertainment industry .

And here’s why it matters. Overwork leads to burnout, stress, and decreased productivity. For mothers, the pressure is amplified by the constant juggling act between career and family. A shorter workday allows for more time with children, reduced stress levels, and ultimately, a healthier and more balanced life. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about sustainability. It’s about creating a work environment where women don’t have to choose between their careers and their families. Check this out.

The Indian Context | Is an 8-Hour Workday Realistic?

The conversation around work-life integration in India is complex. While some sectors are embracing flexible work arrangements, long hours remain the norm in many industries, including Bollywood. There’s a pervasive culture of presenteeism – the idea that being seen at work for extended periods equates to dedication and productivity. Changing this mindset requires a fundamental shift in how we value work and prioritize well-being. The challenges faced by working mothers are often amplified by societal expectations and a lack of adequate support systems.

But, is an 8-hour workday a pipe dream? Not necessarily. Many tech companies and startups are proving that shorter workdays can lead to increased productivity and employee satisfaction. It requires careful planning, efficient workflows, and a focus on results rather than hours spent at a desk or on set. The key is to create a culture where employees feel empowered to manage their time effectively and prioritize their well-being.

And let’s not forget the legal aspect. India has laws regulating working hours, but their enforcement is often lax, particularly in the unorganized sector. Strengthening labor laws and ensuring their implementation is crucial to protecting the rights of workers and promoting a healthier work-life balance.

Beyond the 8-Hour Day | What Working Moms Really Need

While an 8-hour workday is a great starting point, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Working mothers need a holistic support system that addresses their unique challenges. This includes access to affordable and quality childcare, flexible work arrangements, paid parental leave, and a workplace culture that values diversity and inclusion. Here’s the thing: companies like BetterUp are showing how important it is to create a supportive workplace for employees overall.

A common mistake I see companies make is to provide benefits but not actively promote their use. Offering childcare benefits is useless if employees fear being penalized for utilizing them. Creating a truly supportive environment requires a cultural shift where employees feel comfortable prioritizing their families without fear of career repercussions.

Moreover, addressing societal biases is crucial. Women often face discrimination in the workplace due to assumptions about their commitment to their careers after becoming mothers. Challenging these biases and promoting equal opportunities for women is essential to creating a more equitable and inclusive work environment. We need a society that celebrates motherhood and recognizes the valuable contributions of working mothers.

The Role of Partners and Families

Achieving work-family balance isn’t solely the responsibility of the workplace. Partners and families play a critical role in supporting working mothers. Sharing household chores and childcare responsibilities equally is essential to reducing the burden on women and promoting a more balanced lifestyle. Communication and mutual understanding are key to navigating the challenges of balancing work and family life.

But, let’s be honest, traditional gender roles often persist, placing a disproportionate amount of responsibility on women. Challenging these ingrained biases and promoting a more equitable division of labor within the family is crucial. Men need to actively participate in childcare and household chores, not as a favor to their partners, but as equal partners in the parenting journey. The discussion around shared parental responsibilities must continue.

Iqra Aziz and Deepika Padukone’s Advocacy | A Step Forward

Iqra Aziz backing Deepika Padukone’s stance is more than just a celebrity endorsement; it’s a call to action. It’s a reminder that the struggle for work-life balance is real, and it requires collective effort from individuals, organizations, and society as a whole. It opens the door for further discussion about the importance of mental health within demanding industries.

So, let’s continue this conversation. Let’s advocate for policies and practices that support working parents. Let’s challenge societal biases and promote a more equitable and inclusive work environment. Let’s create a world where women don’t have to choose between their careers and their families. Read more here. Let’s ensure that actresses and working mothers get the rest they deserve.