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

Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy has again started the 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 the CNBC Global Leadership 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 the 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, the 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 the 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, the country will struggle to keep pace with other nations.Talking about his own career, Murthy shared how he lived by the values he now advocates, often working 14-hour days, six and a half days a week. His schedule, he said, involved reaching the 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 the country.“I’m proud of it,” he remarked, adding 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 the need for a strong work ethic while others criticized it as excessive. Responding to the feedback, Murthy clarified his stance, saying, “In this country, we need to work hard. There is no substitute for hard work, even if you are the most intelligent guy.”

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

He said that India’s development relies on the willingness of people to sacrifice comfort and put in extra effort to stay competitive globally.

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