Namita Thapar, Executive Director of Emcure Pharmaceuticals and a prominent judge on Shark Tank India, has sparked a thought-provoking debate on work-life balance with her candid advice to professionals working 70-hour weeks. Speaking on the Humans of Bombay podcast, Thapar urged individuals with demanding schedules to reconsider commitments like marriage and parenthood, citing the potential neglect of family life.
Thapar emphasized that extended work hours leave minimal time for nurturing relationships or providing quality care to children. “Seventy hours a week, and then you are putting in another 30-40 hours a week. The rest of the time, you have to get a little bit of sleep. What time are you going to give your little baby or even a spouse who chose to be a homemaker to take care of the baby?” she remarked.
Her comments come amid ongoing discussions about India’s corporate culture, where extended workweeks are often normalized. Thapar acknowledged that while high-level executives may need to invest more time, companies should set reasonable work limits for their broader workforce to prevent burnout and ensure employee well-being.
The advice has sparked diverse reactions on social media. While some praised Thapar for addressing the critical issue of work-life balance, others questioned the practicality of her perspective, especially for professionals in demanding fields.
As India grapples with the challenges of balancing productivity and personal life, Thapar’s remarks serve as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing family and mental health in the pursuit of career success. Her bold stance continues to ignite conversations about the need for sustainable work practices in modern corporate environments.
