Vinod Khosla, the prominent Indian-American businessman and co-founder of Sun Microsystems, has lent his support to Infosys founder NR Narayana Murthy's assertion that India's youth should commit to working 70 hours per week to enhance the nation's overall productivity.
In response to those who felt "attacked" by Murthy's suggestion, Khosla expressed a viewpoint on the matter, indicating that those who felt targeted by the recommendation might benefit from mental health therapy. He suggested that it's acceptable not to work 70 hours a week and to live with the outcomes of individual choices. Khosla emphasized that while Murthy addresses ambitious young professionals, there are alternative ways of living and making different choices.
The venture capitalist, who himself has previously mentioned working 80-hour weeks, conveyed that the pursuit of bigger titles or possessions may not equate to universal happiness. He advocated for an internal drive rather than an external one dictated by societal expectations of success, underscoring that grander designations or larger residences don't guarantee contentment for everyone.
Discussing his investment plans for the foreseeable future on "The Cerebral Valley Podcast," Khosla articulated his intent to continue investing for the next 25 years, health permitting. He highlighted a philosophy that defies traditional retirement norms, affirming that one grows old upon retiring, not the other way around, and cited Warren Buffet's continued activity at an advanced age as an example.
Khosla, whose investment journey commenced at Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers in 1986, established Khosla Ventures in 2004, backing notable companies like Instacart, Impossible Foods, and DoorDash.
Narayana Murthy's statement advocating a 70-hour workweek to foster competitiveness had sparked a discourse, with varied reactions from individuals and business leaders. Sajjan Jindal, Chairman of JSW Group, and Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty had previously supported Murthy's viewpoint. Kunal Shah, the founder of CRED, echoed the sentiment that substantial accomplishments might not align with work-life balance, emphasizing that choosing such balance remains a personal prerogative.
(With Agency Inputs)
ALSO READ | IndiGo Under Fire for Delays: Former Union Minister Joins the Criticism
ALSO READ | BlackRock's Ownership in Suzlon Surpasses 5% Stake
