The debate surrounding India’s work productivity, sparked by NR Narayana Murthy’s comment on a ’70-hour work week’, continues to generate discussion. Vinod Khosla, venture capitalist and co-founder of Sun Microsystems, recently voiced his support for Mr. Murthy’s views. During a Q&A session, Khosla stated that those who felt attacked by the suggestion of a 70-hour work week needed mental health therapy and should be prepared to face the consequences if they chose not to work those hours. He emphasized that there are alternative ways to live and make choices, urging individuals to be internally driven rather than externally driven by societal expectations of success.
Khosla’s response received mixed reactions from social media users. While some agreed with his perspective, others highlighted the need for a balance between long working hours and fair compensation. Some individuals praised the work ethic associated with putting in long hours, while others pointed out the impact it can have on personal life and questioned the purpose of life beyond work.
In a podcast interview, Narayana Murthy stressed the importance of improving India’s work productivity to compete on the global stage. He drew parallels with Japan and Germany, two countries that implemented extended working hours after World War II. Murthy called on the youth to contribute towards building a strong work culture in India.
