Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy sought to clarify his widely-discussed 70-hour workweek comment, emphasizing that such choices are deeply personal and cannot be enforced on others. Speaking at the IMC’s Kilachand Memorial Lecture, he reflected on his own work ethic during his years at Infosys while addressing the public debate that erupted following his earlier remarks.
“There’s nobody who can say you should do this or you shouldn’t do it,” Murthy stated, stressing that each individual must decide their own path. He recounted his rigorous work schedule during the formative years of Infosys, sharing, “I used to get to the office at 6:20 am and leave at 8:30 pm. I’ve done it for 40 odd years. That’s a fact. So nobody can say that’s wrong.” However, he reiterated that these choices should not be mandated or debated in public but rather be matters of personal reflection. “These are not issues that should be discussed and debated. These are issues that one can introspect on, ingest, come to some conclusion, and do whatever they want,” he added.
Murthy’s clarification comes in the wake of ongoing conversations around work culture in India, particularly after Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Chairman SN Subrahmanyan sparked controversy by advocating a 90-hour workweek. Subrahmanyan’s comments triggered a significant backlash from corporate leaders and professionals across industries. Many argued that such proposals were unrealistic, regressive, and counterproductive in the modern workplace.
Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director of Bajaj Auto, was among the critics, pointing out the impracticality of the suggestion. “Let it start from the top, and if it works as a Proof of Concept, then implement it further down,” Bajaj remarked, highlighting the importance of leading by example. He further criticized the notion of measuring productivity through work hours, calling it “archaic and regressive.”
Billionaire industrialist Gautam Adani also weighed in on the issue, offering a balanced view. Adani highlighted that work-life balance is subjective and varies for each individual. “Your idea of work-life balance should not be imposed on me, and my work-life balance shouldn’t be imposed on you,” Adani said during an interview, signaling the need for flexibility and individuality in workplace policies.
The broader debate on work culture, particularly the balance between professional commitment and personal life, has become a focal point in India’s corporate environment. Many in the younger workforce advocate for a healthier balance, challenging traditional notions of success tied to long hours. Murthy’s comments have reignited discussions about productivity, ambition, and the evolving definition of work ethics in a rapidly changing global landscape.
The controversy also underscores the cultural shift in workplaces, as organizations increasingly prioritize employee well-being alongside performance. While some leaders argue that long hours are necessary for achieving excellence and sustaining competitiveness, others emphasize the importance of measuring results and fostering an environment conducive to innovation and mental health. With India emerging as a major player in the global economy, the conversation about work culture is set to remain a critical topic in shaping the future of corporate India.
