Archive · 31 Jul 2026
Venky Atluri Discusses Deepika Padukone's Working Hours Debate
Venky Atluri is a film director who talks about how actors from other film industries should adapt to Telugu cinema.
He says Telugu movies often have long days, 10 to 12 hours, and actors need to respect that culture.
Deepika Padukone left two Telugu movies because she didn’t want to work that long.
Atluri says if he were a Hindi actor, he would study the Telugu sets for three months before working.
He believes everyone should learn the local way of working before acting.
The debate shows that different film industries have different schedules.
Some actors prefer shorter days, while Telugu films often run longer.
Atluri’s comments highlight the need for understanding and respect across film cultures.
The discussion is happening in India’s film industry.
Venky Atluri explains Telugu cinema’s long shooting days of 10‑12 hours.
Deepika Padukone left the films Spirit and Kalki 2898 AD over 8‑hour work‑day demands.
Atluri says actors from other industries should study sets for three months before joining Telugu projects.
He compares the culture to the saying, ‘when in Rome, do as the Romans do.’
The debate highlights differences between Telugu and Hindi film working conditions.
- Who
- Venky Atluri, director; Deepika Padukone, actress
- What
- Atluri comments on the debate over fixed working hours after Padukone left two Telugu films
- When
- Recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter India
- Where
- The Hollywood Reporter India interview
- Why
- To explain differences in work culture between Telugu and Hindi cinema and Padukone’s exit over hours
- Actor involved
- Deepika Padukone
- Director
- Venky Atluri
- Industry
- Telugu cinema
- Typical working hours
- 10-12 hours per day
- Film projects mentioned
- Spirit, Kalki 2898 AD
