Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy has once again sparked debate over work-life balance by defending long work hours, stating that he personally worked extensive hours for over four decades. His remarks come amid an ongoing nationwide discussion on whether India’s young workforce should embrace extended work hours or prioritize work-life balance.

Murthy’s Perspective on Hard Work

Speaking at the Kilachand Memorial Lecture in Mumbai, Narayana Murthy shared his personal experience, emphasizing that working long hours was his own choice, not an imposed mandate. “I used to get to the office at 6:20 am and leave at 8:30 pm. That’s a fact. I have done it for 40-odd years. Nobody can say that’s wrong,” he stated.

He further elaborated that such matters should be left to personal reflection rather than public debate. “These are issues for introspection. Each individual should decide for themselves,” he said.

The 70-Hour Work Week Controversy

Murthy had previously ignited controversy in October 2023 when he suggested that India’s young workforce should work 70 hours a week to enhance productivity and make India globally competitive. He cited historical examples from Germany and Japan, where post-war economic recoveries were driven by rigorous work ethics.

“India’s work productivity is one of the lowest in the world. Unless we improve productivity, reduce corruption, and streamline bureaucratic delays, we will not be able to compete globally,” Murthy had said during a podcast. His remarks divided public opinion, with some supporting his views on hard work while others criticized it as unrealistic and exploitative.

The Debate Over Work-Life Balance

Murthy’s comments triggered a larger debate on work-life balance. Many professionals and labor rights advocates expressed concerns that encouraging such long work hours could lead to burnout and exploitation, especially for entry-level employees who already face immense pressure.

His remarks resurfaced after Larsen & Toubro (L&T) chairman S.N. Subrahmanyan made an even more controversial statement regarding work hours. Speaking during an internal company event, Subrahmanyan said, “I regret I am not able to make you work on Sundays. If I could, I would.”

He further added, “What do you do sitting at home? How long can you stare at your wife? How long can wives stare at their husbands? Get to the office and start working.”

These statements sparked outrage, leading to a clarification from L&T’s HR head, who insisted that his remarks were taken out of context.

Reactions from Industry Leaders

The debate prompted responses from other business leaders. Billionaire industrialist Gautam Adani weighed in, stating that work-life balance is subjective. “Your work-life balance should not be imposed on me, and my work-life balance shouldn’t be imposed on you,” he said.

Bajaj Auto Managing Director Rajiv Bajaj also criticized the focus on long work hours. “If you want a 90-hour work week, start from the top,” he remarked in an interview. He emphasized that productivity should be measured by quality, not just hours worked. “We need a kinder, gentler world more than ever before,” he added.

The Future of Work in India

While some believe Murthy’s advice is necessary for India’s economic growth, others argue that excessive work hours are not the answer. Studies suggest that overworking can lead to decreased productivity, increased stress levels, and long-term health risks. Companies worldwide are now focusing on flexible work policies, hybrid models, and employee well-being.

As India’s corporate culture evolves, the balance between ambition and well-being will remain a key discussion point. Whether young professionals choose to embrace Murthy’s advice or advocate for a balanced approach, the conversation on work ethics and productivity is far from over.