Amul, celebrated for its topical advertisements and clever wordplay, has humorously addressed the controversial remarks by L&T (Larsen & Toubro) Chairman SN Subrahmanyan advocating a 90-hour workweek and working Sundays. The comments, which sparked widespread debate about work-life balance, received a witty response from the dairy giant.
Amul’s Topical Ad Pokes Fun
In its latest doodle, Amul took a jibe at the 90-hour workweek proposal. The poster featured a caricature of the L&T chairman with the caption, “#Amul Topical: Controversy about the 90-hour workweek!” Text on the doodle cleverly read, “Labour and Toil?” with “L&T” highlighted in bold. Another phrase on the ad stated, “Amul stares at bread daily!” — a clear counter to Subrahmanyan’s controversial question, “How long can you stare at your wife?”
The Controversial Remarks
During an interaction with employees, Subrahmanyan expressed regret for not enforcing a working Sunday. “I regret I am not able to make you work on Sundays,” he remarked. Further adding fuel to the debate, he questioned the value of leisure time by saying, “What do you do sitting at home? How long can you stare at your wife, and how long can the wife stare at the husband?”
Defending the Vision
Following backlash, Larsen & Toubro defended the chairman’s remarks, stating they reflected the company’s ambition. In a statement, the company noted, “We believe this is India’s decade, a time demanding collective dedication and effort to drive progress and realise our shared vision of becoming a developed nation.”
Industry Reaction and Comparisons
Subrahmanyan’s remarks join a growing list of high-profile comments on work culture, including Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy’s advocacy for a 70-hour workweek and Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani’s jest about marital strain due to long working hours. Business leaders like RPG Group Chairman Harsh Goenka have also voiced concerns, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance in achieving sustainable productivity.
Public Debate on Work-Life Balance
The chairman’s comments have ignited a broader conversation about the limits of productivity and the role of work-life balance in modern corporate culture. Critics argue that pushing for extended workweeks disregards employee well-being, while supporters claim such dedication is essential for India’s growth trajectory.
Amul’s Role as a Cultural Commentator
Amul’s creative response to the controversy underscores its knack for capturing the pulse of public opinion. With humour and subtle criticism, the ad resonates with those advocating for balanced work environments, reinforcing Amul’s reputation as a brand that not only sells products but also reflects societal values.
The debate over work-life balance, sparked by remarks from influential business leaders, continues to evolve, drawing attention to the fine line between ambition and employee well-being in India’s corporate landscape.