Mohandas Pai, former Infosys CFO and chairman of Aarin Capital, has faced the dispute during grueling work weeks, calling the fuss “a waste of air time”. Reacting to economist Sanjeev Sanyal’s criticism of excessive working hours, Pai dismissed the controversy, arguing that no one is forced to adopt such practices.

“The CEOs expressed their opinions. It’s their point of view, not a rule or a compulsion,” he wrote to X.

The debate, which gained momentum after L&T chairman SN Subrahmanyan suggested 90-hour work weeks and asked “how long can you look at your wife”, has drawn strong responses from both industry leaders and of economists.

Sanyal criticized the notion of excessive working hours, highlighting its counterproductive effects. “Applying this as a rule creates moral hazard,” Sanyal tweeted, pointing to industries like investment banking, where employees often misuse time under the guise of work. “Only a few endure these hours, but even they burn,” he added.

Pai echoed Sanyal’s sentiments, stressing that these opinions of CEOs should not be taken as mandates.

The backlash against long work weeks prompted reactions from other industry leaders. Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra emphasized the importance of quality over quantity in work. “This debate is going in the wrong direction. In 10 hours, you can change the world,” Mahindra said.

Former HCL CEO Vineet Nayar also chimed in, criticizing the glorification of endless working hours. “An unlived life drains energy, creativity and purpose,” Nayar said, adding that a balanced approach is key to sustained productivity.

The controversy originated in October 2023 when Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy suggested that young professionals should work 70 hours a week to compete globally.

While Murthy’s comments found some support, many argued that an overworked work culture undermines well-being and productivity.