Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Chairman SN Subrahmanyan’s recent endorsement of a 90-hour work week has sparked widespread debate across diverse circles. Business magnate Anand Mahindra weighed in on the matter, offering a balanced yet humorous perspective that resonated deeply with audiences and won admiration online. His response emphasized the importance of quality over quantity in work, marking a refreshing take on the controversial topic.
Anand Mahindra Advocates ‘Quality Over Quantity’
Speaking at the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2025 in New Delhi, Anand Mahindra addressed the growing discourse on extreme work hours. While acknowledging the contributions of industry veterans like Narayana Murthy, Mahindra asserted the need to prioritize the value of work delivered over the time spent.
“I have huge respect for Narayana Murthy (founder of Infosys) and others. So let me not get this wrong, of course. But I have to say something, I think this debate is in the wrong direction. My point is we have to focus on the quality of work, not on the quantity of work.”
he said.
Anand Sir elaborated that obsessing over hours detracts from the bigger picture, urging a shift in focus toward meaningful productivity.
When questioned about his own work hours, Mahindra deflected gracefully, reiterating that the emphasis should lie on the results, not the clock.
“So it’s not about 48, 40 hours, it’s not about 70 hours, it’s not about 90 hours.”
he remarked.
This is what I want to avoid. I don’t want it to be about the time. I don’t want it to be about quantity. Ask me what’s the quality of my work. Don’t ask me how many hours I work.”
A Lighthearted Yet Insightful Comment
During the event, Mahindra showcased his characteristic wit when asked about his time spent on X (formerly Twitter). “I’m on X, not because I’m lonely. My wife is wonderful; I love staring at her,” he quipped, drawing laughter from the audience.
He further explained the platform’s value: “I’m here because it’s an incredible business tool.”
This mix of humor and pragmatism not only entertained the audience but also underscored the evolving role of social media in business.
Amid the much-debated topic of work-life balance and L&T Chairman #SNSubrahmanyan's recent comments advocating for 90-hour work weeks, #MahindraGroup Chairman #AnandMahindra said he believed in the quality of work and not the quantity.
Addressing the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders… pic.twitter.com/hcHyRNsIhw
— Hate Detector 🔍 (@HateDetectors) January 11, 2025
The Debate’s Origin: SN Subrahmanyan’s Comments
The discussion began when a video of SN Subrahmanyan went viral, where he advocated for employees to work on Sundays. In his remarks, he questioned the utility of leisure time, saying,
“What do you do sitting at home? How long can you stare at your wife? How long can wives stare at husbands?”
He also shared insights from a conversation with a Chinese colleague, highlighting China’s potential global dominance due to its workers’ 90-hour weeks compared to the U.S.’s 50-hour standard.
While Subrahmanyan’s comments were intended to motivate, they received mixed reactions, with many netizens criticizing the disregard for work-life balance.
“If you have to go on top of the world, you have to work 90 hours a week.”
A Refreshing Counterpoint
Amid the heated debate, Mahindra’s thoughtful and humorous take provided a much-needed counterbalance. His emphasis on meaningful output and his lighthearted remarks about his wife struck a chord with many, garnering appreciation both online and offline.
What do you think of Anand Mahindra’s stance on the 90-hour work week controversy? Share your thoughts in the comments below.