Work-life balance is not a priority: Infosys founder Narayana Murthy has reignited debates about work culture in India by advocating for 14-hour workdays. Speaking at the CNBC Global Leadership Summit, he shared insights into his own gruelling schedule and called for a paradigm shift in the country’s attitude toward work.
Murthy emphasised that hard work is essential for India’s progress, citing his personal work ethic as an example. “Throughout my life, I worked over 14 hours daily for six and a half days a week,” he said. “If we want India to compete globally, Indians must be ready to work hard. Even the most intelligent individuals cannot achieve success without consistent effort.”
Criticism of the 5-Day Work Week
Murthy expressed disappointment over India’s transition from a six-day to a five-day work week in 1986, warning that reduced hours might hinder the nation’s growth. He urged Indians to prioritise national development over personal leisure, claiming that personal sacrifices are crucial for the country’s advancement.
He also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for setting an example of hard work. “When PM Modi is working 100 hours a week, we, as citizens, should match his dedication by putting in extra hours to drive India’s progress.”
Murthy’s statements have sparked widespread discussions, with critics questioning the sustainability and ethical implications of his stance on work-life balance.
Top 5 Overworked Nations: How India Compares
Murthy’s comments raise an important question: Where does India stand globally in terms of overworked populations? Let’s look at the top five nations with the most extended working hours.
At the top of the list is Bhutan, where workers clock an average of 54.4 hours weekly, with an astonishing 61% of the workforce logging more than 49 hours a week. The nation’s economic structure and cultural work ethic demand long hours, often at the expense of employee well-being.
India comes in second, with an average work week of 46.7 hours. Over 51% of Indian workers exceed 49 hours weekly, reflecting the relentless pressures of maintaining productivity and meeting growing economic demands.
Following closely behind is Bangladesh, where employees work an average of 46.5 hours per week. Nearly 47% of the workforce spends more than 49 hours on the job, driven largely by labor-intensive industries such as textiles.
Pakistan also ranks among the most overworked nations, with an average of 46.4 hours per week and 40% of workers surpassing the 49-hour threshold. Much of this overwork stems from the lack of regulations in key industries like construction and manufacturing.
Finally, the UAE rounds out the list with an average work week of 50.9 hours. Although the nation boasts modern infrastructure and technological advancements, many employees, especially in labor-intensive sectors, endure extended work hours, with 39% exceeding 49 hours weekly.
The cost of overwork
While nations like India push for hard work as a means to progress, data from the International Labour Organisation (ILO) suggests that excessive work hours can negatively affect physical and mental health, ultimately reducing productivity.