Ola CEO Bhavish Aggarwal Backs 70-Hour Work Week, Sparking Health Concerns

The ideal work-life balance has long been a hot topic, and recent comments by prominent figures have reignited the debate. Bhavish Aggarwal, CEO of Ola, publicly endorsed Infosys founder Narayana Murthy’s suggestion that young Indians should work 70 hours a week to propel the nation’s economic growth. This endorsement sparked controversy, with health professionals warning of the severe health risks associated with such strenuous work schedules.

Aggarwal’s Strong Belief in Sacrifice for Progress

Aggarwal, a self-proclaimed workaholic, believes a period of intense effort (tapasya) is necessary for India to become a leading global economy. He downplays the importance of work-life balance, suggesting that passion for one’s work can bridge the gap between personal and professional fulfillment.

Murthy’s Initial Remarks and Mixed Reactions

In 2023, Murthy’s 70-hour work week comment divided opinions within India’s corporate and startup sectors. While some agreed on the need for increased productivity, others emphasized the importance of employee well-being and fair compensation for extended hours.

Health Concerns and Risks Posed by Long Hours

Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a neurologist, countered Aggarwal’s claims by citing scientific evidence. Studies show a significant rise in health risks associated with exceeding 55 working hours weekly. These risks include stroke, heart disease, diabetes, and depression. Dr. Kumar highlights the potential for over 800,000 deaths annually due to such work patterns.

Employee Well-Being vs. Corporate Profits

Dr. Kumar raises a critical point: CEOs advocating long hours might prioritize company profits and personal wealth over employee health. He suggests that easily replaceable employees could be a factor in such recommendations.

Finding the Right Balance

The debate surrounding work-life balance is complex. While economic growth is crucial, prioritizing employee health and well-being is equally important. Finding a sustainable work culture that fosters productivity without compromising health remains a challenge.