L&T Chairman's 90-Hour Work Week Remarks Spark Controversy

Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Chairman S.N. Subrahmanyan's controversial endorsement of a 90-hour work week and working on Sundays has sparked widespread backlash, including criticism from Bollywood actor Deepika Padukone, who highlighted the importance of mental health and work-life balance. Subrahmanyan's remarks, made during an internal meeting, suggested that long hours were essential for India's success, leading to comparisons with past comments from Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy. Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora pointed out the generational divide, emphasizing that today's workforce values work-life balance while still being committed. Social media criticism has been robust, with many users mocking Subrahmanyan's comments and calling them out for their sexist undertones. L&T defended its chairman's statements, framing them as part of a commitment to nation-building and extraordinary efforts for progress. This controversy has reignited discussions about workplace expectations and mental health in India.