'Will Take This to My Grave': Narayana Murthy Defends 6-Day Workweek Call

Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy has again started debate on work-life balance and hustle culture, reiterating his belief that India’s economic progress depends on a strong work ethic, including a six-day workweek. Speaking at CNBC Global Leership Summit, Murthy expressed his disappointment over India’s shift to a five-day workweek in 1986, a change he says he has never supported.

“I am sorry, I have not changed my view. I will take this with me to my grave,” he told CNBC's Shereen Bhan, emphasizing that he remains committed to his stance on importance of hard work for national growth.

Narayana Murthy Praises PM Narendra Modi 

Murthy praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's dedication, suggesting that Indians should match this work ethic. “When PM Modi is working that hard, only way to show our appreciation for what’s happening around us is by working just as hard,” he said.

He said that India’s development relies on willingness of people to sacrifice comfort and put in extra effort, stressing that a strong work ethic is crucial to staying competitive globally. Without it, Murthy said, country will struggle to keep pace with or nations.

Talking about his own career, Murthy shared how he lived by values he now vocates, often working 14-hour days, six and a half days a week. His schedule, he said, involved reaching office by 6:30 AM and leaving around 8:40 PM, a commitment he is proud of. For Murthy, this dedication is not merely a choice but a responsibility, particularly for those who have received education subsidised by country.

“I’m proud of it,” he remarked, ding that hard work is a duty for educated individuals and an essential part of Indian culture.

Murthy’s comments come amid reactions to his previous suggestion that young Indians should aim for a 70-hour workweek. This proposal sparked mixed responses, with some supporting need for a strong work ethic while ors criticized it as excessive. Responding to feedback, Murthy clarified his stance, saying, “In this country, we need to work hard. re is no substitute for hard work, even if you are most intelligent guy.”