'Shocking': Deepika Padukone slams L&T chairman's remarks on 90-hour work week

Bollywood actor Deepika Padukone has expressed concern over a recent comment made by SN Subrahmanyan, Chairman of Larsen & Toubro (L&T), regarding employees' work-life balance. Speaking to employees, Subrahmanyan suggested that success requires working seven days a week. Deepika voiced her disapproval in a social media post, calling the statement “shocking” and emphasizing the significance of work-life balance and mental health. She wrote, “Shocking to see people in such senior positions make such statements. #mentalhealthmatters.”

On Thursday, Subrahmanyan controversially endorsed a 90-hour work week, including Sundays, to stay competitive. In a viral video message to employees, he remarked, "I regret I am not able to make you work on Sundays. If I can make you work on Sundays, I will be more happy. What do you do sitting at home? How long can you stare at your wife?"

Subrahmanyan added, "Honestly, I am sorry that I am not able to make you work on Sundays. I will be happier if I can make you work on Sundays, because I work on Sundays too." He justified his stance with a story about a conversation with a Chinese man who credited China’s work ethic for its potential to surpass the US.

The comments have sparked significant backlash on social media, with many users comparing it to an earlier controversial statement by Infosys founder Narayana Murthy on working 70 hours a week.

On the work front, Deepika was last seen in Singham Again directed by Rohit Shetty.