Deepika Padukone Slams L&T Chairman’s Shocking Comments on Sunday Work Culture – Sparks Work-Life Balance Debate!

 

Deepika Padukone Condemns L&T Chairman’s Controversial Comments on Sunday Work Culture

Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Chairman SN Subrahmanyan has sparked outrage with his recent comments suggesting employees should work on Sundays. Renowned actor and mental health advocate Deepika Padukone criticized his remarks, calling them “shocking” and emphasizing the need for employee well-being.

What Did SN Subrahmanyan Say?

A video circulating on Reddit shows Subrahmanyan responding to a question about L&T’s six-day workweek, which includes mandatory Saturdays—a rarity in today’s corporate world. During the discussion, he expressed regret for not being able to implement Sunday work as well.

“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 because I work on Sundays,” he said.

Adding to the controversy, he made comments about employees’ personal time, stating, “What do you do sitting at home? How long can you look at your wife? Come on, get to the office and start working.” His remarks have ignited intense debates about workplace culture, work-life balance, and corporate expectations.

How Did Larsen & Toubro Respond?

In a statement to HT.com, L&T defended the chairman’s comments, attributing them to the company’s ambitious goals for nation-building.

“At L&T, nation-building is at the core of our mandate. For over eight decades, we have been shaping India’s infrastructure, industries, and technological capabilities.

"We believe this is India’s decade—a period that requires collective dedication and extraordinary efforts to achieve our shared vision of becoming a developed nation. The Chairman’s remarks underscore this ambition and the commitment needed to deliver exceptional outcomes.

"At L&T, we are dedicated to fostering a culture driven by passion, purpose, and performance.”

Deepika Padukone’s Advocacy for Mental Health

Deepika Padukone, a vocal proponent of mental health awareness, condemned the comments for neglecting employee well-being. Having openly shared her struggles with depression, Padukone founded the Live Love Laugh Foundation in 2015 to combat stigma and provide mental health support.

The foundation conducts awareness campaigns, offers resources, and provides training for medical professionals to address mental health challenges effectively. Initiatives like “You Are Not Alone” aim to educate schools, students, and teachers about the importance of mental health.

Padukone’s advocacy highlights the need for a balanced work culture that prioritizes mental health and encourages individuals to seek help without fear of judgment.

Work-Life Balance Debate Reignited

The controversy around Subrahmanyan’s remarks has intensified discussions about the importance of work-life balance and employee welfare. As companies strive for growth, experts emphasize the need to ensure that workplace demands do not come at the cost of mental and emotional well-being.

By addressing these issues, businesses can create healthier work environments that promote productivity without compromising the quality of life for their employees.