In a recent controversy surrounding workplace culture, Larsen & Toubro’s chairman, SN Subrahmanyan, has faced backlash for his comments about employee work expectations, including a desire for staff to work on Sundays. Prominent actress and mental health advocate Deepika Padukone has weighed in on the debate, expressing her disapproval of such statements from senior leaders.
During an employee interaction, Subrahmanyan addressed a question regarding the company’s requirement for staff to work on Saturdays, a practice that is becoming less common in modern workplaces. In a video that has circulated widely on social media, he expressed regret for not being able to mandate work on Sundays 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 stated.
His comments took a controversial turn when he questioned how employees spend their downtime at home, saying, “What do you do sitting at home? How long can you look at your wife? Come on, get to the office and start working.” This remark has drawn sharp criticism for its tone and implications, igniting discussions online about work-life balance and the expectations placed on employees in large corporations.
In response to the backlash, a spokesperson for Larsen & Toubro issued a statement, emphasizing the company’s commitment to nation-building and the need for collective dedication to drive progress. “The Chairman’s remarks reflect this larger ambition, emphasizing that extraordinary outcomes require extraordinary effort,” the spokesperson said. They reiterated the company’s focus on fostering a culture driven by passion, purpose, and performance.
Deepika Padukone, known for her advocacy for mental health awareness, reacted to the controversy by sharing journalist Faye D’Souza’s post on social media. She wrote, “Shocking to see people in such senior positions make such statements. #MentalHealthMatters.” Padukone has been a vocal supporter of mental health initiatives in India, having founded the Live Love Laugh Foundation in 2015 after her own battle with depression. The foundation aims to destigmatize mental health issues and provide support through awareness programs and resources.
Through her advocacy, Deepika has sparked important conversations about mental well-being, urging society to prioritize mental health and seek help without fear of judgment. Her response to Subrahmanyan’s comments highlights the ongoing dialogue about the importance of work-life balance and the need for a supportive workplace culture that values employees’ mental health.
