Infosys founder Narayana Murthy’s advice to young people in India, calling on them to work 70 hours per week, has sparked a strong reaction from other entrepreneurs and leaders. While extended working hours can increase productivity, many argue that a balanced approach is equally important.
During a podcast, Murthy stated that if India wants to compete with developed economies, young people should be willing to put in 70 hours of work each week. In response to this comment, Abhishek Desai, founder of CricHeroes, emphasized the importance of work-life balance, employee well-being, and using technology to enhance efficiency.
Desai acknowledged the success of countries like Japan and Germany but noted that their work culture may not be easily replicable in the Indian context. He argued that the measure of work should be based on outcomes rather than the number of hours spent working. Desai also disagreed with the perception that laziness among young people is the only obstacle preventing India from becoming a developed nation.
On the other hand, Ola CEO Bhavish Aggarwal expressed agreement with Murthy’s viewpoint. Aggarwal believes that this is not the time to work less and focus on entertainment, but rather a time to fully commit and build what other countries have achieved over many generations.
Shrijay Sheth, founder of Legalwiz.in, offered a different perspective. He stated that working long hours does not necessarily lead to better work, greater outcomes, or higher returns for companies. He emphasized that productivity and achieving organizational goals should be the primary focus. In the Indian context, longer working hours may actually result in lower efficiency, hindering the realization of business objectives.
The debate surrounding Narayana Murthy’s advice on extended working hours highlights the different opinions on productivity and work-life balance among entrepreneurs and leaders in India. Ultimately, finding the right balance between dedication, efficiency, and personal well-being is crucial for the success of individuals and businesses in the country.
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