SNS never implied 90-hr work week, his remarks misinterpreted: L&T HR

About a week after the chairman and MD of engineering and construction major Larsen & Toubro (L&T), S.N. Subrahmanyan (SNS), courted a major controversy around his comments on work-life balance, the HR head of the multinational company has finally come out with an explanation on the matter.

Sonica Muraleedharan, Head HR Domestic Operations at L&T, terms the whole controversy a "truly disheartening" episode, saying Subrahmanyan's comments were "casual" in nature and were "misinterpreted". The whole controversy erupted after a video of Subrahmanyam, 64, conducting a Q&A session during his New Year address went viral on social media, in which he appeared to be advocating for a "seven-day" workweek. "I regret I am not able to make you work on Sundays… because I work on Sundays too,” he told his employees.

But Muraleedharan has termed the criticism "unnecessary". "It’s truly disheartening to see how the words of our MD & Chairman, S.N. Subrahmanyan (SNS) have been taken out of context, leading to misunderstandings and unnecessary criticism. Having been present during the internal address, I can confidently state that SNS never implied or mandated 90-hour work weeks. His remarks were casual and have been misinterpreted, fuelling a controversy that doesn’t reflect his true intentions," she writes.

Muraleedharan says with nearly five years in this organisation and numerous addresses from SNS under her belt, she said she could "personally vouch" for his leadership style. Subrahmanyan treats every employee as part of an extended family, fostering a sense of unity and belonging that’s rare in today’s corporate world, added Muraleedharan. "SNS consistently demonstrates an exceptional ability to balance his demanding professional commitments while creating a nurturing and empowering environment for his team. He always encourages us to embrace innovation, continuously develop our skills, and grow both personally and professionally. Despite his packed schedule, he takes the time to connect with employees and ensure their voices are heard."

The L&T HR Head says SNS is a leader who genuinely cares for his team’s well-being. "His visionary leadership and deep commitment to supporting his employees sets him apart as a mentor who leads by example. Working under his leadership has been more than just a job – it has been a transformative experience, akin to participating in a living masterclass on leadership, where every interaction imparts valuable life lessons."

In the viral video, Subrahmanyan had gone a step ahead when he was asked why L&T was still making its employees work on Saturdays even after being one of the largest conglomerates and the face of India's business world. Answering the question, he said: "What do you do sitting at home (on Sundays)? How long can stare at your wives, how long can wives stare at their husbands, come on, get to the office and start working."

Explaining the rationale behind his comments, Muraleedharan says it’s crucial to fully understand the context and intent behind his words before rushing to judgment. "Leaders like SNS inspire positive change and growth, and it’s vital to recognise their efforts rather than misinterpret them. Instead of focusing on controversy, let’s celebrate and support leaders who empower, motivate, and elevate their teams, leaving a lasting, positive impact on the organisation as a whole."

The responses to Larsen & Toubro (L&T) chairman's controversial opinion on the 90-hour workweek debate also came thick and fast. Actor Deepika Padukone was one of the high-profile personalities to strongly oppose the statement. Padukone, a staunch advocate of mental well-being, said it was "shocking to see people in such senior positions make such statements."

Mahindra Group chairman Anand Mahindra said when it comes to employees and work, it is the quality, not the quantity, that matters. “I think this debate is heading in the wrong direction. My point is that we need to focus on the quality of work, not on the quantity. It’s not about 70 hours or 90 hours. What output are you producing? Even if it’s 10 hours, you can change the world in 10 hours,” said Anand Mahindra.

“The question is, which kind of mind makes the right choices and decisions? I believe it’s a mind that is exposed to holistic thinking, and open to inputs from around the world. That’s why I’m so vocal about the importance of liberal arts,” Mahindra added.

In the past, Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy and others have advocated for a 70-hour workweek to propel India toward becoming an economic superpower comparable to China. However, critics argue that such a relentless approach could harm the population more than benefit it, suggesting instead that India should leverage its unique strengths for sustainable growth.