 |
|
Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy has staunchly defended his controversial comments advocating for a 70-hour work week, asserting that hard work is indispensable for India's advancement. At the CNBC Global Leadership Summit, Murthy categorically stated, "I am sorry, I have not changed my view. I will take this with me to my grave." His unwavering stance underscores his deep-seated belief in the power of dedication and commitment, a philosophy ingrained in his own entrepreneurial journey.
Murthy's comments have stirred debate, highlighting the ongoing discourse around work-life balance and the changing landscape of work culture in India. His stance, rooted in a generation that witnessed the nation's post-independence struggle and subsequent economic development, contrasts with the increasing emphasis on work-life balance in contemporary work environments. He laments the shift from a six-day work week to a five-day work week in 1986, viewing it as a step backward in terms of productivity and national progress.
Drawing inspiration from the post-WWII rebuilding efforts of Germany and Japan, Murthy emphasizes the role of collective hard work in national resurgence. He cites Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 100-hour workweeks as an example, urging citizens to reciprocate the Prime Minister's dedication with similar commitment. "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," he asserts.
Murthy's personal experience further bolsters his argument. He proudly recounts his own rigorous work schedule, consistently putting in 14-hour days, six and a half days a week, throughout much of his career. This dedication, he believes, was crucial to Infosys's success and serves as a blueprint for India's future prosperity. His unwavering belief in hard work as the cornerstone of achievement resonates with a generation that witnessed the rise of India's tech industry under his leadership.
However, Murthy's perspective is not without its critics. The contemporary discourse on work-life balance, mental health, and employee well-being challenges the notion that long work hours are the sole path to success. The increasing emphasis on flexible work arrangements, remote work, and employee well-being programs reflects a shift in priorities, highlighting the need for a more balanced approach to work and personal life.
The debate sparked by Murthy's comments underscores the complexities of the evolving work landscape in India. As the nation strives for continued growth and development, the question of work-life balance, productivity, and individual well-being remain intertwined. While Murthy's perspective offers a glimpse into the ethos of a generation that propelled India's economic growth, it prompts a broader conversation about the future of work and the balance between individual aspirations and national aspirations.
Source: "Will Take It To My Grave": Narayana Murthy Firm On "70-Hour Work Week" Comment