L&T Chairman’s 90-Hour Workweek Comment Sparks Controversy; Deepika Padukone Weighs In

New Delhi, 11th January 2025: A statement by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Chairman S.N. Subramanian advocating a 90-hour workweek for employees has triggered widespread criticism and debate across social media platforms. The remarks, perceived as dismissive of work-life balance and mental health, have drawn reactions from various quarters, including Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone, known for her advocacy for mental health awareness.
Deepika Padukone shared a post by journalist Faye D’Souza on her Instagram story, expressing her shock over Subramanian’s comments. She wrote, “It is quite surprising that a person holding such a high position has made such a statement,” adding the hashtag “#MentalHealthMatters” to emphasize the importance of mental well-being.
The controversy erupted following the circulation of a video on Reddit, in which Subramanian expressed regret over employees not working on Sundays. “I’m sorry that I’m not able to get you to work on Sundays. If I can get you to work on Sundays, I will be happier because I work on Sundays,” he said. Subramanian further questioned the purpose of staying at home, making a controversial remark: “What will you do by staying at home? How long will you stare at your wife?”
The backlash comes on the heels of a similar statement by Infosys founder Narayana Murthy, who suggested that the younger generation should work 70 hours a week to boost productivity.
Deepika Padukone has been vocal about prioritizing mental health and strongly opposed any narrative that undermines employee well-being. By addressing the issue publicly, she has reignited conversations about workplace stress, mental health, and the need for a balanced approach to productivity.