In a world increasingly driven by productivity metrics, a disturbing trend has emerged among global business magnates and political leaders: a push for employees to work unreasonably long hours, as if humanity is racing to outpace itself. These leaders seem to compete to prove who can create the most "efficient" non-biological workforce, inadvertently challenging the natural order of human existence. It appears they are setting themselves against divine creation, attempting to redefine humanity&rsquo;s essence through relentless labor.
Indian corporate leaders have recently joined this chorus, with expectations that conflict with the ideological stance of certain cultural organizations. While some leaders call for increased family time and higher birth rates to preserve the Hindu population, others demand a grueling 70- to 90-hour workweek. This ideological tug-of-war leaves one to wonder: where is this nation heading?
The Catalyst of the Debate
Narayana Murthy ignited controversy by suggesting Indian youth work 70 hours a week to drive economic growth. Elon Musk supported this notion, claiming he worked such hours during his early career. Similarly, T.V. Mohandas Pai argued that India&rsquo;s low productivity requires such commitment, asserting that young people must declare, &ldquo;This is my country; I want to work 70 hours a week.&rdquo;
Adding fuel to the fire, L&amp;T Chairman S.N. Subrahmanyan recently proposed a 90-hour workweek, questioning the value of leisure. He asked rhetorically, &ldquo;What do you do at home? How long can you stare at your wife?&rdquo; Such statements trivialize personal lives and imply that time spent with family is a waste.
The Reality of Working Life in India
These leaders&rsquo; expectations are divorced from the realities of Indian employees. Workers in metro cities endure stressful and time-consuming commutes, often spending hours navigating chaotic traffic or crowded public transport. This daily ordeal diminishes their physical and mental energy, leaving little room for productivity, let alone creativity.
Moreover, Indian workplaces are rife with internal politics, which hampers efficiency and demoralizes employees. Before demanding more hours, these leaders must address the systemic inefficiencies that plague organizational culture.
Hypocrisy Among the Elite
It is ironic that while corporate leaders preach about work ethics, they themselves devote substantial time to social events, weddings, and political gatherings. One prominent business tycoon&rsquo;s extravagant wedding celebration consumed countless hours, not only of his family but also of media and attendees. Are these activities boosting the economy, or are they merely a display of privilege?
Similarly, the political leader who claims to work 18-hour days spends a significant portion of that time traveling and attending public events. How much of this time contributes directly to the economy?
Ignoring Human Limits
Human biology is not designed to sustain endless work. Extensive research highlights the adverse effects of overwork on mental and physical health. Expecting employees to work 70-90 hours per week equates to treating them as machines, disregarding their need for rest, family, and social interaction. If such demands were natural, why would God create a cycle of day and night or the necessity for companionship?
The Economic Fallacy
Leaders often compare Indian working hours with those of other countries without considering disparities in wages and living standards. For example, a fair comparison would require Indian companies to pay Rs 616 per hour, translating to Rs 1,47,888 per month for a standard 48-hour workweek. If such salaries were offered, employees might willingly contribute more, boosting the economy through increased purchasing power and higher tax contributions.
Instead, the current narrative blames employees for low productivity while ignoring their financial and social struggles. If leaders genuinely aim to strengthen the economy, they should advocate for reduced income taxes, better infrastructure, and policies that enhance employee well-being.
A Call for Balance
The Bhutanese King, speaking at the 2015 Vibrant Gujarat Summit, emphasized his desire to see happiness on his citizens' faces. Indian leaders should take inspiration from this philosophy. Economic growth should not come at the cost of personal happiness and societal harmony.
Instead of demanding 70-90 hour workweeks, leaders should focus on creating workplaces that foster innovation, reduce stress, and value employees as individuals. A well-rested, motivated workforce is far more productive than one worn out by excessive demands.
Respect Humanity
The ongoing debate between corporate expectations and cultural priorities exposes a glaring disconnect among India&rsquo;s elite. Business leaders and cultural organizations must align their visions to decide the nation&rsquo;s future. Should India prioritize relentless economic competition or nurture a balanced, happy society? The answer lies in respecting humanity&rsquo;s inherent value and working toward sustainable progress, not modern slavery.

illustration of when employees give more productivity

Leaders push for extreme working hours, ignoring human limits and societal responsibilities

Work or Modern Slavery? The 70-Hour Week Debate

Leaders push for extreme working hours, ignoring human limits and societal responsibilities

January 10, 2025 | 21:30 IST