Startup Originals Team
Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Chairman SN Subrahmanyan has openly addressed the intense backlash he faced after suggesting that employees should work up to 90 hours a week, including Sundays. His remarks, which also referenced family life, sparked widespread criticism and controversy, leading to public discussion about work-life balance and workplace culture in India.
The Controversy: Work Hours and Family Comments
In January, Subrahmanyan compared the work ethic of Chinese and American employees, stating that “the Chinese work 90 hours a week, while Americans work only 50 hours.” He suggested that Indian employees follow the Chinese model for greater productivity, adding, “What do you do sitting at home? How long can you stare at your wife? How long can the wives stare at their husbands? Get to the office and start working.” He also mentioned, “If I can make you work on Sundays, I will be more happy, because I work on Sundays also.”
These remarks quickly became the center of a national debate, with many expressing concern over their implication on personal lives and work-life balance.
Personal Impact and Clarification:
Subrahmanyan revealed that his wife was deeply upset, as she was also dragged into the controversy. He admitted that his statements were made as a “casual answer” and that he was unaware he was being recorded. In hindsight, he said, “I could have answered differently. Normally, I speak in an easy manner, that’s my style.”
He explained the context for his comments: immense pressure from project delays and repeated complaints from high-profile clients through calls and emails. Stress over mobilizing staff and lagging work progress led to those comments.
“It was not good to be called out at that level. It doesn’t reflect well on me or the organization,” he acknowledged.
Reflection and Regret:
The L&T Chairman said the episode had “preyed on his mind” and admitted, “It has not been easy. But what happened, happened. I cannot withdraw it now. If a similar question comes in a similar mood, maybe I’ll answer differently.”
He emphasized, “Performance is our oxygen. When it goes wrong, things come out in that manner.”
Conclusion:
SN Subrahmanyan’s comments have highlighted the pressures faced by corporate leaders and the importance of context in public statements. As workplace culture evolves, the conversation around balancing high performance with well-being continues-reminding both leaders and employees of the impact that words can have beyond the boardroom.
