Introduction

Sudha Murthy, born Sudha Kulkarni on August 19, 1950, in Shiggaon, Karnataka, is a name that evokes determination, intelligence, and philanthropic behavior. Her journey from a small town in Karnataka to becoming one of India’s most respected authors, educators, and philanthropists is nothing short of inspiring. Her life, marked by numerous firsts and fearless decisions, offers a wealth of lessons for women, men, and students alike.

Early Life and Education

Sudha came from a middle-class family in Shiggaon, Haveri district, Karnataka. Her mother, Vimala Kulkarni, was a schoolteacher, while her father, Dr. R. H. Kulkarni, was a surgeon. Growing up in a family that valued education, Sudha was encouraged to pursue her academic interests. Her maternal grandparents, who played a significant role in her upbringing, instilled in her a love for learning and a strong sense of self-worth.

Sudha’s academic journey was marked by excellence. She completed her Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from B.V.B. College of Engineering & Technology, now KLE Technological University. She was the only female student in her engineering class, an experience that would later influence her views on gender equality. Sudha didn’t stop there; she went on to pursue a Master’s degree in Computer Science from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, where she excelled once again.

Breaking Barriers at Tata Motors

In 1974, as Sudha was planning her next steps, she came across an advertisement from Tata Motors (then TELCO) for the position of engineer. The advertisement specified that “lady candidates need not apply.” This blatant gender discrimination struck a chord with Sudha, and instead of accepting the status quo, she decided to challenge it.

She penned a letter to the legendary J.R.D. Tata, the chairman of the Tata Group, expressed her disappointment at the discrimination. Her letter wasn’t just a complaint; it was a call to action. She highlighted the Tata Group’s legacy of pioneering industries and education in India and questioned how such a company could endorse gender bias.

To her surprise, less than ten days later, she received a telegram inviting her for an interview at Tata Motors’ Pune facility. The interview was intense, with six people on the panel, all aware that she was the woman who had written to J.R.D. Tata. Despite the pressure, Sudha’s technical knowledge and poise impressed the panel, and she was hired as the first female engineer at Tata Motors. This was a landmark moment not only in Sudha’s life but also in the history of Indian industry.

Family and Personal Life

During her time at Tata Motors, Sudha Murthy met Narayana Murthy, a fellow engineer from Karnataka. Their friendship blossomed into love, leading to their marriage. Sudha’s career took an unexpected turn when Narayana Murthy decided to start his own company, Infosys, in 1981. Sudha played a crucial role in the early days of Infosys, providing financial support and moral encouragement. She even parted with her savings, earned through her job at Tata Motors, to help fund the fledgling company.

Narayana Murthy has often credited Sudha with being the silent force behind Infosys, a company that would go on to become a global IT giant. While Narayana focused on building the business, Sudha took care of their home and children, allowing him to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams.

Together, they built not only a successful business empire but also a family rooted in values of humility, education, and service. The couple has two children: Rohan Murty and Akshata Murty. Rohan, a technologist and entrepreneur, has made significant contributions to the field of computer science and founded the Murty Classical Library of India, which aims to preserve and publish classical Indian literature.

Akshata Murty, Sudha’s daughter, is a fashion designer and entrepreneur. She is also known for her marriage to Rishi Sunak, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Akshata’s work and her marriage to Sunak have brought the Murthy family into the global spotlight, connecting their legacy to international governance and leadership.

Sudha Murthy’s family life reflects the values she holds dear—education, innovation, and giving back to society. Her influence is not only seen in her professional achievements but also in the paths her children have chosen, each making a mark in their respective fields.

The Visionary Behind Infosys Foundation

Sudha founded the Infosys Foundation, Infosys’ philanthropic arm, in 1996. Her vision was to give back to society, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, and rural development. Under her leadership, the foundation has funded numerous initiatives, including building hospitals, libraries, and schools, providing scholarships to underprivileged students, and supporting disaster relief efforts.

Sudha’s approach to philanthropy is deeply personal. She doesn’t just sign checks; she visits the places where the foundation works, interacts with the beneficiaries, and ensures that the funds are being used effectively. Her hands-on approach has earned her respect and admiration from all quarters.

Literary Contributions

Sudha Murthy is also an accomplished author. She has written over 30 books in English and Kannada, including novels, short stories, children’s books, and travelogues. Her writing is known for its simplicity, warmth, and deep understanding of human nature. Some of her most popular works include Wise and Otherwise, How I Taught My Grandmother to Read, Dollar Bahu, and The Old Man and His God.

Sudha’s stories often draw from her own life experiences, offering readers a glimpse into her world and the lessons she has learned along the way. Her books have been translated into several Indian languages, making her one of the most widely-read authors in the country.

Recognitions and Honors

Sudha’s contributions to society have not gone unnoticed. In 2006, she was awarded the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors, for her social work. In 2023, she was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honor. In 2024, Sudha was nominated as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, a recognition of her tireless efforts in social work and education.

She is also a member of the Gates Foundation’s public healthcare initiatives and has founded several orphanages, supported rural development, and established the Murty Classical Library of India at Harvard University.

A Woman of Substance

Sudha Murthy’s life exemplifies the power of resilience, courage, and compassion. She has faced challenges head-on, whether it was breaking into a male-dominated industry, supporting her husband’s entrepreneurial dreams, or dedicating her life to philanthropy. Her story is one of quiet strength and unwavering determination.

In a world where success is often measured by wealth and power, Sudha Murthy stands out as a beacon of simplicity and selflessness. She reminds us that true success lies in the difference we make in the lives of others and that every obstacle is an opportunity to create change.

Conclusion

Sudha Murthy is not just a role model for women; she is an inspiration for anyone who believes in the power of education, hard work, and social responsibility. Her journey from a small town in Karnataka to the halls of Parliament is a story of grit, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Sudha Murthy’s legacy is not just in the institutions she has built or the books she has written, but in the countless lives she has touched. She is a living example of how one person, with courage and conviction, can make a difference in the world.