Anand Mahindra Advocates for Quality Over Quantity in Work-Hour Debate at Viksit Bharat Dialogue
Anand Mahindra Highlights the Importance of Quality in Work-Hour Debate at Viksit Bharat Event
At the ‘Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2025’ in New Delhi, Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra shared his perspective on the contentious debate surrounding work-hour expectations in India. As discussions around extended work hours gained momentum, Mahindra emphasized the need to focus on the quality of work rather than the quantity. His remarks come in the wake of recent industry conversations suggesting extended workweeks for extraordinary outcomes.
Mahindra’s comments addressed statements made by other business leaders, including L&T Chairman S.N. Subrahmanyan, who suggested a 90-hour workweek, including Sundays, as a potential benchmark for remarkable results. Subrahmanyan’s remarks stirred significant public debate and drew criticism from notable figures such as Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone and RPG Group Chairperson Harsh Goenka. In response to the backlash, L&T clarified that Subrahmanyan’s intent was to inspire exceptional efforts for nation-building rather than to impose a strict standard.
Sharing his own philosophy, Anand Mahindra expressed respect for corporate leaders while articulating his belief in prioritizing the impact of work. “It’s not about 70 or 90 hours at work,” he said. “You can change the world in 10 hours.” Mahindra noted that innovation and productivity arise from how time is utilized effectively, not from the sheer duration of work.
When asked about his personal work habits, Mahindra declined to quantify the hours he spends at work, highlighting that the conversation should focus on the quality and impact of one’s output instead. “Ask me what’s the quality of my work. Don’t ask me how many hours I work,” he remarked.
Mahindra found particular inspiration during his interactions at the event. “My batteries are fully charged after today’s event,” he said, acknowledging the energy and ideas presented by young leaders in attendance. He emphasized the importance of engaging with youth as a way to renew one’s perspective and contribute to India’s progress.
The Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue, organized by the Department of Youth Affairs and running from January 10–12 at Bharat Mandapam, provides a platform for young leaders to share innovative solutions for India’s development. Evolving from the National Youth Festival, the event focuses on fostering meaningful dialogue and collaboration for national growth.
Anand Mahindra’s approach underscores the necessity of balancing ambition with efficiency, emphasizing that the path to building a developed India lies in the creative and effective application of efforts, not merely in extending work hours. His message resonates strongly with a new generation aiming to contribute to India’s progress while maintaining a balanced and meaningful work life.
