The wife of the former UK Prime Minister and her mother, renowned engineer and philanthropist Sudha Murty, share insights on wealth, philanthropy, and the values that shaped their lives. Below are excerpts adapted from their in-depth interview with The Times (UK). – Editors
Sudha Murty
Compassion was the most important quality I wanted for my daughter. Life isn’t always fair, but being fair to others often demands personal sacrifice. Akshata inherited this value and worked incredibly hard, earning degrees in economics, French, and an MBA from Stanford, where she met Rishi. She later gave up her career to support his, much like I did for my husband, Narayana Murthy, when he built Infosys. I’ve always told her, “Nothing is permanent. All things will change.”
Growing up in Hubli, India, education was the cornerstone of our family. At 17, I defied expectations by becoming the only girl in my engineering class. The conditions were strict: I had to wear a sari, avoid the canteen, and not talk to boys. Despite the challenges, I excelled and proved that hard work and knowledge can break barriers.
When I married Murthy, I lent him ₹6,000 from my secret savings to start Infosys. While he focused on building the company, I managed our finances, raised our children, and even worked as a programmer or driver when needed. Sacrifices were inevitable. When Akshata was born, I had to leave her with my mother in Hubli so I could continue working. It was heart-wrenching, but for every gain in life, there is a cost—except for a mother’s love.
Akshata showed her determination early on, even as a child. At three, she was particular about her clothes. She has a keen sense of color and style, traits I lack. She learned by example the values of simplicity, responsibility, and philanthropy. Growing up, her birthday money went to hospitals rather than parties—a decision she initially disliked but later understood. Today, those donations still impact lives.
Philanthropy became my calling at 45, inspired by Akshata’s question: “What’s your duty to society?” That moment led to establishing the Infosys Foundation, which has since built hospitals, schools, and infrastructure across India, aiding millions. Akshata’s logical, compassionate, and grounded nature reflects the values passed down through our family. She’s systematic, never blames others, and expects nothing in return—a rare mindset.
Akshata Murty
My mother’s life taught me to live authentically, work hard, and embrace learning. She shattered barriers as an engineer, raising us with values of simplicity and fairness. These principles guide me, even as my life diverged from hers.
When I met Rishi at Stanford, I was drawn to his big-heartedness and genuine care for others. He wasn’t the “cool kid”—he wore Oxfam clothes, drove a second-hand Volkswagen, and loved discussing the UK’s potential. His passion for nation-building reminded me of my father’s dedication to India. That shared vision formed the foundation of our relationship.
Like my parents, Rishi and I prioritize impact over wealth. I relinquished my non-domiciled UK tax status because my focus isn’t on accumulating money but on fulfilling responsibilities. Education is a passion we share, and we’re exploring ways to give back.
Growing up, I learned independence through simplicity. My school lunches were plain—cold rotis and aubergine—teaching me to value what I had. My mother’s sacrifices, including leaving me with my grandmother as a baby, instilled resilience and gratitude. Those experiences shaped my approach to parenting. While Rishi and I guide our daughters, we let them make their own choices.
My mother’s empathy and fearlessness are unmatched, though I’m more introverted like my father. When she feels overwhelmed, I remind her she can’t solve everyone’s problems. Her values remain my compass.
Sudha on Akshata:
“She has full conversations with their dog, Nova, explaining everything like she’s talking to a child.”
Akshata on Sudha:
“She loves her tech and always juggles a phone, a work phone, and an Apple Watch—all buzzing at once.”
