In a move that is being lauded across the Indian film fraternity, Bollywood power couple Ajay Devgn and Kajol have come out in strong support of implementing 8-hour work shifts for new mothers working in the entertainment industry. Their call for reform aims to create a healthier, more inclusive working environment for women juggling the demanding responsibilities of motherhood and their careers.
Speaking at a recent panel discussion hosted by the Women in Cinema Collective in Mumbai, Kajol emphasized the importance of workplace compassion. “We need to recognize that motherhood is not a break from professionalism—it’s a phase that requires support and flexibility,” she said. “If we want to retain and uplift talent in our industry, especially female talent, we have to make changes that prioritize their well-being.”
Ajay Devgn, who has produced several films under his banner Ajay Devgn FFilms, echoed her sentiments. “It’s not just a moral obligation; it’s a professional responsibility. An actor or crew member who is also a new mother should not have to choose between her baby and her career,” he stated. “We can easily accommodate 8-hour shifts or flexible timings without compromising on quality.”
The couple, known for their decades-long careers and balanced family life, are reportedly already implementing such policies in their upcoming joint productions. According to sources, Devgn’s production house has begun restructuring shooting schedules to make room for shorter shifts, proper breastfeeding breaks, and access to child care on set.
Industry insiders say the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Several female technicians and assistant directors working on Kajol’s upcoming project praised the initiative, calling it a “breath of fresh air” in an industry where 12- to 16-hour workdays are often the norm.
Filmmakers like Zoya Akhtar and Meghna Gulzar have also expressed support for the idea, stating that the film industry must evolve with the times. The Producers Guild of India is reportedly considering drafting official guidelines to encourage member productions to follow similar practices.
While this shift will require logistical adjustments, especially for big-budget productions, many believe it is a crucial step toward a more equitable and humane film industry.
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As one mother working on Devgn’s set put it, “For the first time, I feel like I’m not being punished for being a parent.”
With influential voices like Ajay Devgn and Kajol backing the cause, it seems the Indian film industry may finally be ready to script a more compassionate chapter—one where talent and motherhood can coexist without compromise.
