Akash Ambani, Chairman of Reliance Jio, recently highlighted his father Mukesh Ambani’s extraordinary dedication, revealing that the billionaire clears every e-mail until 2 am, even after four decades in business. “Till date my father clears each and every e-mail that is sent to him, and he does it till 2 am at night, and he’s working for the fourth decade of his working life. And that’s where the inspiration really comes from,” Akash said.
During a rapid-fire round, when asked if he preferred an 8 am to 5 pm or 5 pm to 8 am schedule, Akash noted his own workday often stretches beyond 12 hours, thanking his wife, Shloka Mehta, for her support. These insights reveal the demanding schedules of one of India’s most influential families, reigniting the debate around working hours.
This debate is longstanding. Some advocate for shorter, focused workdays to enhance efficiency and wellbeing, whilst others see extended hours as a reality of high-stakes roles. Critics argue such patterns set unrealistic standards, potentially normalising overwork, whilst others view them as a sign of commitment.
Business leaders have recently weighed in: Infosys’ Narayana Murthy sparked discussion by suggesting a 70-hour workweek for India’s youth, later calling it optional. L&T’s SN Subrahmanyan proposed 90-hour weeks, facing criticism for sidelining personal life. Conversely, Bajaj Auto’s Rajiv Bajaj emphasised quality over hours, and Serum Institute’s Adar Poonawalla championed sustainable productivity.
As work culture evolves, Akash’s comments illuminate the relentless pace at Reliance, sparking admiration and prompting reflection on modern norms without explicitly taking a stance on the working hours divide.
