Aditya Narayan: Bollywood's Hustle Culture Leads to Burnout – Star Backs 8-Hour Workday Amidst Nepotism Debate

Aditya Narayan on Grueling Work Hours: "Burnout is Real"

Following Kumar Sanu's support for Deepika Padukone's decision to leave "Spirit" due to demanding shooting schedules, Aditya Narayan has voiced his opinions on industry burnout, nepotism, and the necessity for systemic change. In an open discussion, he shared his personal experiences and views on independent music.

The Need for Humane Work Hours

When asked about his opinion on Kumar Sanu's endorsement of an 8-hour shooting day, Narayan responded: "Yes, absolutely. We glorify hustle to the point of harm. Burnout is real—I’ve lived it. Whether it’s endless shoots or overnight dubbings, the pressure can be immense. The creative process needs rest, reflection, and respect for people’s well-being. An exhausted artist may deliver a product, but rarely art."

Independent Artists and the Music Industry

Addressing the challenges faced by independent artists, particularly in light of Sonu Nigam's struggles against alleged "music mafia" structures in Bollywood, Narayan stated: "There’s some space now—more than before—but it’s still not enough. The gatekeeping hasn’t vanished; it’s just taken new forms. Independent artists need more platforms, transparency, and respect. We shouldn’t have to fight so hard just to be heard. The system still needs shaking up, and the audience is the real disruptor now."

Social Responsibility of Celebrities

Regarding whether celebrities should speak out on sensitive topics, Narayan said: "I believe every artist should speak when moved by conscience—not for noise, but for truth. That said, not everyone is built the same. Some heal through silence, others through speech. What matters is the intention. If it comes from love and empathy, then even disagreement can lead to dialogue, not division."

Nepotism in the Digital Age

Finally, Narayan addressed the issue of nepotism: "Nepotism exists—that’s reality. But today, talent can bypass it. If you have a voice, a vision, and the will to keep showing up, the digital space can open doors. That said, the emotional cost for outsiders is still higher. The system needs to support newcomers better, but the audience—now more than ever—is in charge of writing the real story."