Tanishaa Mukerji argues actors working long hours deserve basic necessities, says it's different for Akshay Kumar who works 9-5: 'Stars won't be...'

Tanishaa Mukerji has weighed in on the ongoing debate about actors’ demands on film sets. She defended actors, saying their requirements—like gyms, chefs, or vanity vans—are not just luxury, but necessary given the long hours they work.In a talk with The Indian Express, Tanishaa discussed the ongoing debate about actors’ demands on film sets, which some filmmakers say raise production costs. She said that while actors shouldn’t pressure small-budget filmmakers, producers also shouldn’t call them out for having tantrums. She stressed that the time and effort actors put into a project should be respected, and it’s unfair to criticise their needs without considering the long hours they spend on set.The actress also pointed out that it’s unfair to judge actors for their so-called ‘tantrums’ without knowing how long they work. While stars like Akshay Kumar may have a 9-5 schedule and then go to the gym, most actors spend 14–18 hours on set. Before calling requests for gyms or chefs in vanity vans unnecessary, it’s important to consider how little time they have to manage meals, workouts, and personal care. She said these arrangements aren’t luxuries—they’re essential for keeping up their performance during tough, long shoots.Tanishaa also explained that tantrums are part of being a star—the bigger the star, the bigger the demands. She noted that for independent producers with a low budget, most actors are willing to negotiate and adjust. However, in bigger, corporate productions, stars naturally make more demands because the resources are available. Ultimately, she said, it’s a matter of demand and supply.