Deepika Padukone is known for her disciplined work ethic but embracing motherhood seems to have rewritten her personal rulebook. After months of speculation about why she stepped away from massive projects like Kalki 2 and Spirit the actress has now opened up about the reason behind her decision and what truly pushed her to demand an eight-hour workday. The actress who welcomed her first child earlier this year said that stepping into motherhood changed her perspective on both life and the way work should function. Speaking with Harper’s Bazaar she reflected on how society often glorifies exhaustion and why she refuses to be part of that cycle anymore. How did motherhood change Deepika Padukone’s approach to work? Calling her experience “eye-opening” Deepika shared that every cliché about motherhood had turned out to be true. “One hundred per cent. Every cliché is true. When mothers say ‘You’ll understand when you become one’ it’s true. I have so much more respect for my mother now” she said. She added that even the most detailed plans don’t prepare you for the reality of balancing work and parenting. According to her new mothers need far more support than they receive and this is an issue she wants to champion going forward. “You can plan how you think you’ll navigate work and motherhood but the reality is very different. I feel strongly about how new mothers need to be supported when they return to work. That’s something I want to focus on” she said. Why did Deepika Padukone demand an 8-hour shift? Deepika’s headline-making “8-hour demand” had triggered countless conversations but she believes the problem is far simpler than people make it out to be. “We’ve normalised overworking. We mistake burnout for commitment” she said. According to her eight hours is enough for the mind and body to perform at their best. She made it clear that bringing an exhausted person back to work benefits no one which is why her own office maintains a strict eight-hour schedule from Monday to Friday. She also emphasised maternity and paternity support and even encouraged the idea of bringing children to work. What did Deepika say about pay parity and working conditions? After stepping away from Kalki 2 the actress addressed broader issues such as fair pay and respectful working environments. In her interview with CNBC-TV18 she said “I have done this at many levels; this is not new to me. I think even as far as pay is concerned I have had to deal with whatever comes with it. I don’t even know what to call it but I am someone who has always fought my battles silently.” Deepika added that even when her battles become public her approach remains rooted in dignity. “To fight my battles silently and in a dignified way is the way I know” she said. Highlights: • Deepika says “burnout culture” should not be mistaken for commitment.• The actress believes new mothers must receive stronger workplace support.• She continues to advocate for fair pay and healthier working conditions.