Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy has once again sparked widespread conversation with his steadfast views on work-life balance, declaring that he does not believe in it. At the CNBC Global Leadership Summit, Murthy openly reiterated his long-held position on the subject, which has often drawn both support and criticism. He firmly stated, “First of all, I do not believe in work-life balance,” reaffirming his earlier views. This statement echoes his belief that success—both at an individual and national level—requires an unwavering commitment to work and progress.
Murthy’s perspective is rooted in his conviction that, as a developing nation, India must prioritize hard work and relentless dedication to overcome its challenges. For him, the idea of striving for work-life balance is a luxury that can wait until India is more advanced in addressing its immediate economic and infrastructural hurdles. "India has no choice but to work harder if it wants to compete globally," he stated. His earlier comments suggesting that Indians should aim for a 70-hour workweek have drawn significant attention, with some agreeing and others criticizing the suggestion as excessive.
His remarks during the summit underscored his deep belief that work ethic plays a central role in national progress. Murthy pointed to India’s transition from a six-day to a five-day workweek in 1986 as a critical turning point in the nation’s work culture—a move he expressed disappointment over. "I am sorry, I have not changed my view. I will take this with me to my grave," he added, suggesting that he believes India’s current approach to work is insufficient for the country’s long-term success.
Murthy further elaborated on his viewpoint by drawing upon the example of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s work ethic. He lauded the Prime Minister for his tireless dedication to the nation’s progress, noting that Modi’s commitment to long workdays should inspire the country’s citizens to follow suit. "When PM Modi is working that hard, the only way to show our appreciation for what’s happening around us is by working just as hard," Murthy said. He believes that the long hours and relentless drive of leaders like Modi should set an example for the Indian workforce, especially those in positions of power or opportunity.
Murthy’s personal work ethic is a reflection of the values he promotes. Throughout his career, he maintained an intense commitment to his work, often spending up to 14 hours a day, six and a half days a week, fulfilling his professional responsibilities. Murthy’s routine was rigorous—he would start his day at 6:30 a.m. and often finish his workday around 8:40 p.m. His devotion to his work is something he takes pride in, and he sees it not just as a personal choice but as a moral responsibility. According to him, those fortunate enough to receive an education and career opportunities in India should embrace hard work as part of their contribution to the nation’s future.
His recent statements have reignited the debate around his previous suggestion that millennials in India should embrace a 70-hour workweek. This controversial suggestion has sparked a range of opinions—while some endorse the need for a stronger work ethic to meet global standards, others argue that the suggestion is too demanding and could lead to burnout. In response to the criticism, Murthy clarified that his message was not about glorifying overwork but about instilling a culture of hard work. "There is no substitute for hard work even if you are the most intelligent guy," he emphasized, underlining that success cannot be achieved without a commitment to diligence and persistence.
Murthy has long compared India’s work culture to that of countries like Germany and Japan, which, in his view, successfully rebuilt their economies after World War II through a culture of hard work, perseverance, and national determination. According to him, these countries have set a global example, proving that economic recovery and growth are possible through an unwavering commitment to labor and discipline. Murthy believes that India has the potential to mirror this success, provided its young generation embraces the responsibility to work hard and contribute to the country’s rise as a global economic power.
For Murthy, the debate around work-life balance is not just about individual well-being but about the nation’s collective progress. He believes that by working harder, Indians can better contribute to the economy, innovate, and drive the country’s growth. As the nation faces growing competition in the global market, Murthy insists that a strong work ethic is essential for India to maintain its competitive edge.
Despite the ongoing debate, Murthy’s views continue to resonate with many, especially in the context of India’s status as a developing nation. While the modern workplace increasingly emphasizes the importance of work-life balance, Murthy’s arguments remind people of the critical importance of hard work and focus in shaping the future of a nation. His thoughts challenge prevailing notions about the necessity of leisure and personal time, particularly when it comes to a country still striving to address significant socio-economic challenges.
Ultimately, Murthy’s message is one of duty, responsibility, and dedication—values he believes are integral to India’s growth and its place in the global economy. His firm stance on hard work, regardless of the personal cost, serves as both a call to action and a reminder that the path to progress is often paved with long hours, persistence, and commitment to the greater good. Whether one agrees with his view on work-life balance or not, Murthy’s legacy as a visionary and tireless advocate for India's progress continues to influence the business world and beyond.
