The timeless adage, “Work is worship,” holds enduring wisdom. It speaks to the sanctity of honest effort and the reverence that ought to be accorded to every form of labour. Work transcends its material outcomes. It provides a person with identity and dignity, offering them a place and recognition within society. It carves out a role through which one contributes to the collective human story.  In today’s fast-evolving world, the nature and nomenclature of work have diversified. We speak of employment, entrepreneurship, start-ups, and employability — each reflecting new dimensions of human effort in an increasingly competitive and interconnected society.

The genesis of most forms of work is deeply rooted in necessity. As the old saying goes, “Necessity is the mother of invention.” The most transformative jobs and innovations have emerged not from comfort but from pressing needs. It is through adversity and the hunger for solutions that humanity has made its greatest leaps. The wheel, the plough, the printing press, and the internet — all born of necessity — are milestones that have shaped civilizations.

Moreover, it is passion — often described as a killer passion — that ignites the spirit of work culture. A person driven by genuine passion discovers untapped potential within themselves. They push boundaries, challenge norms, and redefine what is possible. Passion transforms routine tasks into purposeful missions, and in doing so, it breathes life into even the simplest forms of labour.

Yet, passion alone is not enough. Work demands Discipline, focus, and a systematic approach. It requires the mind to plan, the hands to build, and the heart to persevere. In the absence of sustained effort and clear execution, even the noblest intentions fall short. Truth and integrity, too, are the cornerstones of meaningful work. While shortcuts may offer temporary gains, it is honesty and ethical conduct that yield enduring fruits. A career built on integrity commands respect, fosters trust, and leaves a lasting legacy.

Lastly, it is often said there is no substitute for Smart work. In an age driven by technology and innovation, working harder is valuable, but working smarter transforms effort into achievement. It is not merely about the hours one puts in, but how effectively those hours are directed toward meaningful outcomes.

On this International Workers' Day, let us not only remember the struggles and victories of those who paved the way for fair and dignified work but also reflect on our own relationship with labour. Let us honour every hand that builds, every mind that innovates, and every heart that serves. The best reward for hard work is the gift of More Work. I feel proud of our society where people are ready to learn, unlearn and relearn the mantra of hardwork.  Let us create a very good work culture in our society to build a beautiful and a happy world.