Nearly a year after Deepika Padukone reportedly stepped away from two South Indian films over concerns about long working hours, filmmaker Venky Atluri has shared his views on how actors and directors should adapt when working across different film industries.
While promoting Viswanath and Sons, Venky said anyone entering a new film industry should first understand its working culture and adjust accordingly.
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter India, he referred to the popular saying, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.”
He said the same principle applies when a Hindi actor enters Telugu cinema or when a Telugu filmmaker works in Bollywood.
According to Venky, those entering Telugu cinema should understand the Telugu industry’s working style and mindset before setting their own conditions.
The director said the Telugu film industry generally follows a disciplined schedule. Call times are usually around 7 or 8 am, and shooting may continue until 6 pm.
He explained that actors may spend around 10 hours on set, while the total working day for the crew can extend to 11 or 12 hours.
However, Venky clarified that these timings are not always rigid and that schedules can be discussed and adjusted depending on the project.
His comments have now added fresh attention to the ongoing debate over working hours, actor comfort and professional expectations in the film industry.