I don't believe in work-life balance: Narayana Murthy

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru

Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy has once again stirred the ongoing debate on work-life balance by expressing his disagreement with the concept. Speaking at the CNBC Global Leadership Summit, Murthy reiterated his firm stance, which has been a point of contention in recent discussions as per media reports. “I do not believe in work-life balance,” Murthy stated, standing by his earlier controversial remarks. He argued that India requires a stronger work ethic, emphasising that citizens should prioritise hard work to drive the nation's progress. He had previously suggested that Indians should work up to 70 hours a week to help accelerate national development.

Murthy also expressed disappointment over the shift in India from a six-day to a five-day workweek in 1986, saying, “I have not changed my view. I will take this with me to my grave.” He cited KV Kamath, Chairman of Jio Financial Services, to reinforce his argument that India, as a developing country, should focus on overcoming its challenges rather than seeking a work-life balance.