Perspective matters: Balancing ambition and mental health in a demanding world

Bollywood superstar Deepika Padukone, who recently appeared in Singham Again, has taken a strong stand against Larsen & Toubro chairman S. N. Subrahmanyan’s controversial remarks, sparking a conversation about the balance between work and mental health.

Subrahmanyan recently urged employees to work 90 hours a week, including Sundays, a statement that has drawn widespread criticism for its apparent disregard for labour laws and mental well-being. Deepika, known for her advocacy of mental health, did not shy away from voicing her concerns. Sharing journalist Faye D’Souza’s post about the statement, the actress added, “Shocking to see people in such senior positions make such statements. #MentalHealthMatters.”

This is not the first time a prominent figure has drawn criticism for promoting excessive work hours. Infosys co-founder N. R. Narayana Murthy also faced backlash after suggesting that young Indians should work 70 hours a week to drive national progress. Deepika’s stance reflects a growing acknowledgment of the importance of mental health and sustainable work environments, especially in a country where burnout and work-related stress are common.

“Both Deepika Padukone’s advocacy for mental health and S. N. Subrahmanyan’s call for dedication stem from the desire to inspire progress — albeit in different ways. While Deepika’s focus highlights the need for balance and sustainability, Subrahmanyan may be emphasizing the extraordinary effort required to achieve ambitious goals,” remarks Bollywood’s only PR guru, Dale Bhagwagar. Offering a nuanced perspective, he adds, “It is essential to find a middle ground where aspirations thrive without compromising well-being, as that is the foundation of long-term success for individuals and organizations alike.”

The entertainment publicist knows what he is speaking about. After all, Dale Bhagwagar is not only famous as the best crisis management expert in Bollywood but is also recognized as the Father of Bollywood PR for having started the first Bollywood PR agency, Dale Bhagwagar Media Group, in the entertainment industry in the nineties, bringing organization and structure to the Bollywood PR machinery in Mumbai.

Deepika’s life beyond her advocacy is a testament to her versatility and talent. Last year, she made headlines for joining Punjabi sensation Diljit Dosanjh on stage at his Bengaluru concert. Dancing alongside him on tracks like Hass Hass and Lover, the event marked her first public appearance after the birth of her daughter Dua. The performance, held in her hometown, was a nostalgic moment for the actress, who grew up in Bengaluru before taking the Bollywood world by storm.

From her debut opposite Shah Rukh Khan in Om Shanti Om to delivering two 2023 blockbusters — Pathaan and Jawan — Deepika has consistently solidified her position as one of Bollywood’s top stars. Her pan-India appeal was further cemented with her role in Kalki 2898 AD, where she shared the screen with cinema legends like Amitabh Bachchan and Kamal Haasan.

Deepika’s willingness to take a stand on important issues, be it mental health or social responsibility, is part of what makes her such a compelling figure in Indian cinema. However, her critique of S. N. Subrahmanyan could spark debates within her fan base and among potential corporate partners about the fine line between advocacy and alienation.

In a world where celebrities often tread cautiously, Deepika’s bold approach might just inspire others to prioritize meaningful conversations over staying silent. Whether this will affect her business prospects remains to be seen, but one thing is clear — Deepika Padukone’s voice is one that refuses to be silenced.

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Deepika Padukone, S. N. Subrahmanyan, Dale Bhagwagar, Father of Bollywood PR, crisis management in Bollywood