‘Extraordinary outcomes require extraordinary effort’: L&T backs chairman’s comments on 90-hour work week

Amid widespread criticism over Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Chairman SN Subrahmanyan’s remarks advocating a 90-hour work week, the conglomerate has defended its vision, emphasising its commitment to nation-building.

In an exclusive statement to CNBC-TV18, an L&T spokesperson said, “At L&T, nation-building is at the core of our mandate. For over eight decades, we have been shaping India’s infrastructure, industries, and technological capabilities. We believe this is India’s decade, a time demanding collective dedication and effort to drive progress and realise our shared vision of becoming a developed nation. The chairman’s remarks reflect this larger ambition, emphasising that extraordinary outcomes require extraordinary effort. At L&T, we remain committed to fostering a culture where passion, purpose, and performance drive us forward.”

What’s the controversy?

The controversy erupted after a video circulated on the social media platform Reddit showed that Subrahmanyan, during an internal interaction, suggested employees work on Sundays and questioned the need for time off.
Responding to a query about mandatory work on Saturday, he was seen as saying, “I regret I am not able to make you work on Sundays. If I can make you work on Sundays, I will be happier because I work on Sundays also. What do you do sitting at home? How long can you stare at your wife? How long can the wife stare at your husband? Get to the office and start working.”

Why Indians should emulate Chinese work culture

The L&T chairman cited an anecdote referring to a conversation with a Chinese professional to support his stance. Subrahmanyan claimed that “Chinese people work 90 hours a week, while Americans work only 50 hours a week. If you have got to be on top of the world, you have to work 90 hours a week.”

The video, widely circulated on Reddit, has created a social media storm with sharp reactions from many users. Comparisons were also made to recent controversial statements by Infosys Founder Narayana Murthy, who advocated for a 70-hour workweek for young professionals.

Video of L&T CMD on 90-hour workweek

L&T CMD and work life balance

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