Swiggy CEO Calls For Work-life Balance, Warns Against 'Burning Midnight Oil' And Hustle Culture

Hustle culture underlines an unending quest for success and productivity, often pushing employees to exert themselves more than necessary. Although some people may thrive in this environment, it can lead to serious consequences. The ongoing pressure to achieve, often at the cost of personal well-being, can result in burnout, anxiety and deteriorating mental and physical health. While numerous industry leaders promote this hustle mentality, Swiggy CEO Rohit Kapoor argues it is fundamentally flawed. Speaking at a recent event, he highlighted that sacrificing health and personal connections for late-night work is ultimately unproductive.

During his discussion with Shradha Sharma at Techsparks in Bengaluru, Rohit Kapoor acknowledged there are occasions when working late is necessary but emphasised that it shouldn’t be a daily routine. He noted, “But wo jo 3 baje raat ko baithte hai na wo ye nahi batate ki wo 1 baje dopahar ko office ate hai (Those who say they work till 3 am, never say that they reach the office by 1 pm next day).” He expressed his significant concern regarding this culture and encouraged individuals to prioritise time with family and friends.

While it’s important to work “damn hard,” it shouldn’t come at the expense of personal life, he said.

The video of his remarks has gained considerable traction, resonating with many viewers. Several people agreed with Kapoor’s stance, while others expressed strong views about the glorification of hustle culture and the urgent need for change.

Responses on social media included comments like, “He got a point.” Another user quipped, “Finally someone is normal.”

One follower praised Kapoor’s remarks, saying, “Enough reason for Subscribing for the IPO.” Another one added, “More people need to talk about this.”

Rohit Kapoor reportedly kicked off his career as a management consultant at McKinsey & Company in 2000. In 2012, he moved to Max India Limited, serving as the Senior Strategy & Business Performance Director.

Shortly thereafter, he became the Executive Director and Board Member at Max Healthcare. His career continued at OYO, where he took on multiple positions. In 2022, he stepped into the role of Chief Executive Officer of the Food Marketplace at Swiggy.