‘Marry, Have Kids In Your 20s’: Zoho Co-Founder’s Advice To Young Entrepreneurs Sparks Row

Last Updated:November 19, 2025, 5:39 PM IST

Vembu’s remarks came while reposting a post by entrepreneur Upasana Konidela, V-C of Corporate Social Responsibility at Apollo Hospitals and wife of Telugu star Ram Charan

Zoho co-founder Sridhar Vembu on Wednesday sparked a debate on social media after sharing advice urging young entrepreneurs to marry and have children in their 20s.

Vembu, in a post on X, wrote: “I advise young entrepreneurs I meet, both men and women, to marry and have kids in their 20s and not keep postponing it.”

“I tell them they have to do their demographic duty to society and their own ancestors. I know these notions may sound quaint or old-fashioned but I am sure these ideas will resonate again,” he added.

Vembu’s remarks came while reposting a post by entrepreneur Upasana Konidela, Vice Chairperson of Corporate Social Responsibility at Apollo Hospitals and wife of Telugu star Ram Charan.

Konidela had shared her interaction with students at IIT Hyderabad, noting a striking difference in priorities between men and women.

“When I asked, “How many of you want to get married?” — more men raised their hands, than the women! The women seemed far more career-focused !!!! This is the new Progressive India,” she wrote, adding, “Set your vision. Define your goals. Own your role. And watch yourself become unstoppable.”

Mixed reactions on X

Vembu’s post quickly drew mixed reactions online. Some users questioned the practicality of his advice, highlighting the economic realities faced by young Indians today.

“Everyone keeps advising 20-year-olds to marry early, but no one talks about the actual tradeoff: Today’s youth aren’t “afraid of commitment” they’re afraid of building a family on unstable salaries, zero work-life balance, and rent that eats 40% of income. It’s not a demographic crisis. It’s an economic one. Fix that, and hands will rise on their own,” one user wrote.

Another added, “What do you say to the ones who tried that, had 3 kids by 28 and are now divorced, broke, and watching their less encumbered peers lap them in wealth and impact Mr Vembu.”

“TBH, if I choose to have kids in my 20s who is going to compensate for my career being on pause or even set back with maternity leaves in this cut-throat? Yes, I would love to have children above all. BUT that alone is not my sole purpose in life,” a user remarked.

Others, however, supported Vembu’s viewpoint, seeing early marriage and children as a stabilising factor in life.

“Pure synchronicity! I was literally discussing this topic at breakfast yesterday. As a founder with 2 young kids, I couldn’t agree more. Family isn’t distraction; it’s the anchor,” commented one entrepreneur.

Another pointed out the demographic aspect, noting India’s total fertility rate is below replacement level.

“Careers & wealth can grow anytime, but your 20s are the best biological age for marriage & kids. India’s TFR is 1.9 (below 2.1). It’s not just a national duty — it’s a smart personal choice too,” the user wrote.

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The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d… Read More

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