In the grand narrative of India, where countless stories of valor, wisdom, and compassion intertwine, her tale stands out as a luminous thread. Her life serves as evidence that one individual's resolve and kindness can indeed make a profound difference. As a prolific writer, educator, and philanthropist, she has etched her presence in the hearts of millions.
It is with a heart brimming with pride and hope that we receive the news of her nomination to the Rajya Sabha by the President. On International Women's Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made this significant announcement.
Here’s Sudha Murty, a name synonymous with intellect, simplicity and unwavering commitment to social welfare. Her journey from a humble beginning of a compassionate girl in Karnataka to her appointment to the Rajya Sabha is nothing short of inspirational.
Sudha Murty's story begins in the humble town of Shiggaon in Karnataka, where her formative years shaped the empathetic and curious individual she would become. Her early life was steeped in the rich cultural heritage of her hometown, where she was raised in a family that valued education and social responsibility above all else. Her father, Dr. R. H. Kulkarni, was a renowned surgeon and her mother, Vimala Kulkarni, was a teacher. They instilled in her the importance of hard work, humility, and the need to give back to society. These values became the cornerstone of her life, shaping her into a person who would later touch the lives of millions.
Sudha Murty's educational journey is a narrative of breaking barriers and setting benchmarks. She was the only girl in her engineering class at the B.V.B. College of Engineering & Technology, paving the way for many to follow. Her academic prowess led her to the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, where she completed her M.Tech in Computer Science. Her academic excellence led her to be the first female engineer hired at TATA Engineering and Locomotive Company (TELCO), setting a precedent for many women to follow.
Sudha Murty's married life began with her union with N.R. Narayana Murthy, the future co-founder of Infosys, one of India's largest IT companies. Their partnership was not just one of love and mutual respect but also of shared values and visions for a better society.
In 1996, Sudha Murty established the Infosys Foundation, serving as its chairperson and guiding force. Under her stewardship, the foundation has implemented numerous projects in healthcare, education, public hygiene, rural development, and art and culture. Her hands-on approach to philanthropy has been characterized by personal involvement in the foundation's activities, ensuring that the aid reaches those who need it most.
Her philosophy is simple yet profound: “A life lived for others is a life worthwhile.”
As an accomplished writer, Sudha Murty's books reflect her deep understanding of human nature and her desire to share the wisdom of life. Her stories, often laced with proverbs like "Helping hands are better than praying lips," resonate with people of all ages. With over 30 books to her name, written in Kannada and English, she has touched upon various themes that resonate with children and adults alike. From children's books like "How I Taught My Grandmother to Read" to novels such as "Dollar Bahu", Sudha Murty's writing explores themes of social inequality, gender discrimination, and the power of education.
Her life's work has not gone unnoticed. Her shelf of accolades includes the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian award and the R.K. Narayan Award for literature. Each honor has been a nod to her extraordinary contributions to uplift and empower.
The nomination to the Rajya Sabha is a fitting acknowledgement of her relentless service and contributions to society. Her entrance into the realm of policymaking is not just a personal achievement but a collective gain for the many voices she represents. Her presence is expected to bring a unique perspective, one which is often overshadowed in the arena of politics. In her new role, we anticipate a fresh wave of initiatives and discussions that will further the cause of development in India. Her wealth of experience and her ability to connect with people from all walks of life makes her an invaluable asset to the House.
Sudha Murty's life is a story that continues to inspire. Her proverbial wisdom, "If you give, forget. If you take, remember," is a guiding principle that has shaped her journey. Her nomination to the Rajya Sabha represents more than just a new title or position; it is the recognition of her lifelong dedication to the betterment of society. Her story is a powerful reminder that the true measure of success is not in the wealth accumulated but in the lives touched and transformed.
As she embarks on this new chapter, the nation watches with hope and admiration, knowing that her voice will echo the sentiments of the common people, and her actions will continue to uplift the lives of many. In a world in need of genuine heroes, Sudha Murty stands tall as a shining example.
Her story is far from over, and the chapters to come promise to be just as compelling and transformative as those that have preceded them. As she continues to inspire and lead by example, her story will undoubtedly encourage others to follow in her footsteps, creating a ripple effect of positive change across India and beyond.