Actor-director Kunal Kemmu has found himself at the centre of a social media storm after comments he made regarding work schedules and motherhood were branded as "misogynistic" by netizens. The controversy stems from a recent podcast discussion where Kemmu addressed the growing debate in Bollywood over standardised eight-hour work shifts—a cause famously championed by actress Deepika Padukone following her transition into motherhood. Sunita Ahuja Supports Deepika Padukone’s 8-Hour Work Shift Demand for Actors, Says ‘Work Is Important, but Kids Come First’.

Kunal Kemmu’s Stance on the 8 Hour Work Shift Debate

During an appearance on a podcast hosted by his wife, Soha Ali Khan, Kunal Kemmu shared his perspective on the demands for shorter working hours in the film industry. Kemmu argued that professional commitments should be managed with foresight, especially when large budgets are at stake.

"You have a choice; there's an incubation period of nine months, you can plan it," Kemmu stated, referring to pregnancy. He suggested that, unless it is an "accidental" pregnancy, an individual’s personal life should be organised in a way that does not disrupt the "way the world is working." He further noted that if an actor wants total control over their hours, they should "become a producer" and invest their own money, rather than dictating terms on someone else's project.

What Did Kunal Kemmu Say About the 8-Hour Work Shift Demand?

Netizens Slam Kemmu for Patriarchal Mindset

The remarks quickly went viral, drawing sharp criticism across platforms. Many users accused Kemmu of "mansplaining" and failing to understand the biological and unpredictable realities of motherhood.

Critics pointed out a perceived double standard in the industry, noting that several male superstars have historically maintained strict eight-hour schedules without facing similar scrutiny. One netizen wrote, "Wow, you must hate women. Tell men to give birth then. If you can't be irk around her schedule, you go get pregnant." Another comment read, "Being married to an actress and being a girl's dad, he should be ashamed of himself after giving this interview."

Netizens Slam Kunal Kemmu for His Take on Deepika Padukone’s 8 Hour Work Shift Demand

‘Men Should Stay out of Women’s Business’

Kunal Kemmu Faces Hate Comments After His 9-Hour Work Shift Remark

Another User Wrote 

Deepika Padukone’s Push for Industry Reform

The debate was originally ignited last year when reports surfaced that Deepika Padukone had requested a fixed eight-hour shift to balance her professional duties with caring for her daughter, Dua. This move reportedly led to her departure from high-profile projects, including Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit and the sequel to Kalki 2898 AD.

Padukone later addressed the issue in an interview, stating that the industry often "mistakes burnout for commitment." She argued that an eight-hour day is sufficient for optimal performance and noted that many male actors have followed such schedules for years. Her advocacy has since sparked a broader conversation about labour rights and mental health within the Indian film fraternity.

Deepika Padukone and Kunal Kemmu’s Work Front

Deepika Padukone recently celebrated her 40th birthday by launching "The OnSet Program" to support emerging talent. She is slated to star in Siddharth Anand’s King alongside Shah Rukh Khan and an upcoming sci-fi actioner with Allu Arjun, directed by Atlee. Priyanka Chopra LIKES Instagram Reel Criticising Deepika Padukone’s 8-Hour Work Shift Demand; Here’s the Proof! (Watch Video).

Following the success of his directorial debut Madgaon Express, Kunal Kemmu is currently working on its spin-off. He is also set to appear in the Netflix series Single Papa and the long-awaited Go Goa Gone 2.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 13, 2026 11:01 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).