After Narayana Murthy 70 hour week remark, now L&T Chairman hails for 90-Hour Workweek, says How long can you stare at your wife?
GH News January 10, 2025 02:06 PM
The debate over work culture in India has reignited after comments made by SN Subrahmanyan Chairman of Larsen & Toubro (L&T) advocating for a 90-hour workweek. Subrahmanyan who leads the Rs 4.85 lakh crore conglomerate with interests in construction industrial technology heavy industry and engineering suggested that employees should even work on Sundays to stay competitive.
‘Work On Sundays’ SN Subrahmanyan
During a recent interaction with employees Subrahmanyan addressed the companys six-day workweek policy. In a video that has since gone viral he stated I regret I am not able to make you work on Sundays to be honest. If I can make you work on Sundays I will be more happy because I work on Sundays also.
He further questioned the utility of personal time adding What do you do sitting at home? How long can you stare at your wife? How long can the wives stare at their husbands? Get to the office and start working.
Work-Life Balance Under Scrutiny
Subrahmanyans remarks have drawn sharp criticism with many arguing they reflect a disregard for work-life balance. Others see it as part of a growing trend among Indian business leaders advocating longer work hours to drive productivity and economic growth.
Narayana Murthys Remark 70-Hour Workweek
Earlier Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy had sparked a similar controversy by suggesting that young Indians should commit to a 70-hour workweek. Speaking at the centenary celebration of the Indian Chamber of Commerce in Kolkata Murthy emphasized the importance of hard work to elevate Indias global status.
He stated We have to work hard and work towards making India number one. At Infosys I said we will compare ourselves with the best global companies. Once we do that I can tell you we Indians have a lot to do. We must set high aspirations because 800 million Indians receive free rations indicating widespread poverty. If we are not willing to work hard then who will?
While some leaders argue that longer hours are essential for global competitiveness and economic progress critics highlight the risks of burnout diminished productivity and the erosion of personal well-being.