
The recent controversy surrounding L&T Chairman SN Subrahmanyan's advocacy for a 90-hour workweek reignited discussions on work-life balance within the corporate world. His provocative comment, questioning how long individuals can simply gaze at their spouses, was met with sharp criticism from various quarters, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life.
Amid the uproar, Info Edge founder Sanjeev Bikhchandani shared a contrasting personal experience with Subrahmanyan, shedding light on a different facet of the L&T Chairman. Bikhchandani narrated an unexpected meeting where Subrahmanyan engaged in a genuine discussion about entrepreneurship, startups, and digital transformation, showcasing an approachable demeanor and a thirst for knowledge. Despite the controversy caused by Subrahmanyan's workweek comments, Bikhchandani's account portrayed him as humble and amiable, providing insights into his interest in exploring new ideas and opportunities beyond traditional work hours.
While Subrahmanyan's workweek remarks continue to spark outrage and division among industry leaders, there are contrasting viewpoints within the business community. Figures like Harsh Goenka and Harsh Mariwala rejected the idea of prioritizing long working hours over quality output, underscoring the significance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance for overall well-being. On the other hand, billionaire Gautam Adani suggested a personalized approach, emphasizing that individual happiness and family well-being should dictate one's work-life priorities, offering a more nuanced perspective on the debate.