Infosys founder Narayana Murthy’s comments on adopting China’s intense “996 work culture” have reignited a nationwide debate. But this time, the discussion has gone far beyond productivity. A cardiologist’s sharp medical response added a new dimension, raising concerns about health, infertility, family life, and the true cost of extreme work hours in India. The 996 culture means working from 9 AM to 9 PM for six days every week. Narayana Murthy believes India needs similar dedication to compete globally.
Narayana Murthy’s statement did not sit well with everyone. Social media erupted with memes, angry tweets, and serious discussions. But one response stood out from the crowd, a cardiologist’s medical perspective on what such extreme working hours could mean for Indian families.
When Does A Doctor Join The Debate?
The conversation took an interesting turn when podcaster Dilip Kumar shared information about India’s growing IVF market. He talked about how lifestyle problems, pollution, lack of marriage, and increased maternal age are causing more couples to struggle with having children.
Dr Deepak Krishnamurthy, who works as Director and lead cardiologist at KIMS, responded with a sharp observation. He directly challenged Murthy’s 72-hour work week idea by pointing out a simple biological fact.
“If a 72-hour work week becomes the norm, I don’t think people would have any energy left anyway,” Dr Krishnamurthy stated. He explained that reduced frequency of intercourse, especially around ovulation time, is a major, but often ignored, reason for infertility among couples.
His point was clear: exhausted employees cannot build families. No matter how much a nation wants economic growth, people need time and energy for their personal lives.
How People Reacted Online
The cardiologist‘s comment went viral almost immediately. India and social media had strong opinions on both sides.
Some users found humor in the situation. One person joked, “72-hour work week is the new contraceptive.” The comment highlighted how extreme work demands could unintentionally act as birth control.
Others took a more balanced view. One user commented, “It is not too much, but shouldn’t be the norm.” This reflected the thinking of many young professionals who believe hard work matters, but should not destroy personal life.
The reaction showed India’s split mindset. Many people support working hard for national progress. But equally many are concerned about mental health, physical well-being, and family time.
Narayana Murthy’s On Backing Long Hours Work
Narayana Murthy has not backed down from his position. In a recent interview, he strongly defended himself. He believes that nations only move forward through intense effort and long working hours.
He also mentioned Prime Minister Modi, who, according to Narayana Murthy, works close to a hundred hours every week. For Murthy, such dedication represents what India needs from its workforce.
The Startup Culture Factor
The Indian tech industry and start-up ecosystem have already adopted an intense work culture. Many young professionals regularly work 60 to 80 hours weekly. Some companies openly expect employees to prioritise work above everything else.
This culture has created a success story. India’s start-ups have achieved global recognition. But it has also created a generation dealing with burnout, health issues, and delayed family planning.
The question becomes: at what point does ambition cross into harm?
The Real Cost Of Extreme Work Culture
When we talk about 72-hour workweeks, we must consider what gets sacrificed:
- Family time: Children grow up with absent parents. Marriages suffer from a lack of communication and shared experiences.
- Health: Bodies break down under constant stress. Medical problems emerge in the 30s and 40s instead of old age.
- Relationships: Friendships fade when there is no time to maintain them. Social support networks collapse.
- Personal development: No time remains for hobbies, learning new skills, or passions unrelated to work.
Conclusion
Dr Krishnamurthy’s viral comment hit home because it connected India’s economic ambitions with the everyday realities of its people. Narayana Murthy’s generation built India’s IT backbone through relentless effort, but today’s workforce understands the long-term cost of burnout. As India debates its future work culture, one truth must remain at the center — progress cannot come at the cost of people’s health, families, and happiness. True national growth requires balance, not exhaustion.
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