MUMBAI, June 2 -- Bollywood's long-standing culture of demanding work schedules has come under renewed scrutiny as actors and filmmakers debate calls to limit shooting shifts and promote a healthier work-life balance across the industry.

Read More: Amrita Puri backs Deepika Padukone over 8-hour shift demand

The discussion gained momentum after reports that leading actress Deepika Padukone stepped away from a major film project over a request for reduced working hours following motherhood. The development reignited conversations about working conditions in India's film industry, where shoots often extend well beyond conventional working hours.

Traditionally, Bollywood productions have operated on schedules ranging from 12 to 18 hours a ...