Sudha Murty, renowned for her contributions as an author, educator, and philanthropist, has recently embraced a new role in public service. At the age of 74, she has embarked on her journey as a Member of Parliament (MP) in the Rajya Sabha, India’s upper house of Parliament. This significant milestone was celebrated by her son, Rohan Murty, who expressed his pride in a heartfelt LinkedIn post.
Rohan Murty, in his post, highlighted the manifold achievements of his mother, encapsulating her diverse career and commending her unwavering spirit. He noted that his mother has worn many hats throughout her life—a computer science professor, a successful author, a dedicated philanthropist, a loving mother, and a supportive wife. “And yesterday, at the age of 74, she just started a new career – as a member of the upper house of the Indian parliament,” he wrote, encapsulating the surprise and admiration he feels towards his mother’s continuous pursuit of new endeavors.
To mark the occasion, Rohan shared an endearing picture of Sudha Murty, poised and ready to step into her new role as a parliamentarian. “Here she is before she left home on her first day!” he captioned, adding a personal touch to the public announcement of this new chapter in her life.
The ceremonial oath-taking occurred on March 14, a date that will be remembered in the Murty household and beyond. The event was held in the august chambers of the Rajya Sabha, where Sudha Murty took her oath of office. The solemnity of the moment was further enhanced by the presence of her husband, Narayana Murthy, the eminent founder of Infosys. The oath was administered by Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankar, marking the official commencement of Sudha Murty’s parliamentary duties.
Her nomination to the Rajya Sabha came on a significant day—International Women’s Day, a fitting tribute to her lifelong dedication to advancing women’s roles in society. Sudha Murty has indeed been a trailblazer for women everywhere, demonstrating through her actions the limitless possibilities available to those who dare to dream and work hard to realize those dreams.
This new role as a parliamentarian adds to a series of impressive accolades and responsibilities that Sudha Murty has carried out with distinct grace and effectiveness. Throughout her life, she has been honored with multiple awards spanning different fields, recognizing her contributions to literature, education, and social work.
Sudha Murty’s journey has been nothing short of inspirational.
. With a background in engineering and computer science, she initially made a mark as a teacher and author. Her academic achievements are noteworthy; she was the first female engineer to be hired at India’s largest auto manufacturer at the time, Telco (now Tata Motors). She further went on to become a visiting professor at several esteemed universities, imparting knowledge and inspiring a new generation of students.
In addition to her academic engagements, Sudha Murty has been a prolific author, writing in both Kannada and English. Her books, spanning genres such as children’s literature, travelogues, and novels, have been well received both critically and commercially. Many of her stories are rooted in Indian culture and ethos, carrying messages of compassion, hope, and social justice—values she has consistently upheld in her personal and professional life.
Philanthropy has also been a cornerstone of Sudha Murty’s contributions to society. As the chairperson of the Infosys Foundation, she has been instrumental in launching and supporting numerous initiatives aimed at healthcare, education, rural development, and the arts. Her philanthropic work has reached numerous underprivileged sections of society, bringing about tangible changes in the lives of many.
Now, as she takes on her responsibilities as a Rajya Sabha MP, there is a palpable sense of excitement and expectation about what she will bring to the table. Given her track record of dedication and effectiveness, and her deep understanding of societal issues, many anticipate that she will make significant contributions in her legislative role.
Rohan Murty’s public display of pride and affection adds a personal dimension to this public achievement. It is a reminder that behind every remarkable individual is a network of family and loved ones who offer their support and encouragement. As Sudha Murty steps into the halls of the Rajya Sabha, she carries with her not just her own dreams and aspirations but also the love and pride of her family.
As she takes on this new challenge, Sudha Murty’s story becomes even more inspiring, highlighting that it is never too late to take on new roles and make meaningful contributions to society. Her journey from academia and philanthropy to the corridors of power encapsulates the spirit of continuous growth and service, setting a powerful example for future generations.
