Narayana Murthy,
The co-founder of Infosys, has once again championed the idea of a 70-hour workweek, arguing that it is crucial for India’s economic growth. He believes that young professionals need to invest more time in their work to enhance both personal productivity and the nation’s competitiveness. Murthy draws a comparison between the work ethic of privileged individuals and the labor of less fortunate workers, such as farmers and factory employees, who often endure long hours to support their families. For him, adopting a similar intense work schedule is key to driving national progress.
However, Murthy’s stance has stirred considerable controversy. Critics contend that such a demanding work culture can lead to burnout, exhaustion, and severe mental health challenges. The death of a 26-year-old accountant at Ernst & Young (EY) in July 2024, attributed to the extreme stress from her workload, has intensified these concerns. The tragic incident prompted her mother to publicly blame the company’s high expectations and the relentless pressure to work long hours, further fueling debates about India’s toxic work culture.
Despite this backlash, Murthy continues to defend his viewpoint, claiming that his advocacy for long hours has been well-received by both international friends and Indian professionals living abroad. He stresses that increased productivity is essential for improving India’s economic standing on the global stage.
This ongoing debate underscores the clash between traditional work ethics, as exemplified by Murthy’s perspective, and the rising demand for better work-life balance among younger generations. As India’s corporate landscape evolves, finding a balance between hard work and personal well-being remains a challenge.