Mumbai’s film industry is buzzing with debates over work shifts, reignited by Deepika Padukone’s recent demand for an 8-hour workday post-maternity. But veteran actor Deepak Parashar argues that such issues barely scratch the surface of deeper woes plaguing struggling artists. In an exclusive interview, the 46-year industry veteran laid bare the harsh realities faced by lesser-known performers and called for intervention from the highest levels of government.
Parashar acknowledged Deepika’s push for regulated hours but emphasized its limited impact. ‘Top stars dictate their terms because they drive box office success and TRP ratings,’ he said. ‘But for actors scraping by in small roles or hunting daily gigs, these discussions change nothing.’ He painted a stark picture of an industry orbiting around a elite few, leaving the majority in perpetual uncertainty.
Highlighting the absence of unity, Parashar questioned whether A-listers would ever rally for the underdogs. ‘Those in comfort zones rarely step out to fight others’ battles,’ he noted, pointing to failed attempts at collective action. However, a silver lining emerges with senior artists like Poonam Dhillon, Padmini Kolhapure, and Upasana Singh uniting after decades in the field to advocate for change.
Reflecting on his own four-decade journey, Parashar expressed a desire to spare the next generation his hardships. He fondly recalled COVID-19 aid from stars like Hrithik Roshan, Sonu Sood, Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Akshay Kumar, which provided rations and financial relief. Yet, he stressed these were temporary fixes, not substitutes for systemic reform.
The core issue, according to Parashar, is the lack of a robust, unified artists’ association amid the explosion of TV and OTT platforms. ‘Fragmentation makes collective bargaining impossible,’ he said. His solution? Political and institutional muscle. ‘Our last hope lies with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and figures like Arun Govil to enact policies that safeguard all artists.’
As the industry evolves, Parashar’s plea underscores the urgent need for structural overhaul to ensure fairness beyond the spotlight.