'Being In Man's World..': Akshata Shares Mum Sudha Murty's Life Lesson

Sudha Murty, an author, philanthropist, entrepreneur, and political figure, has inspired countless people worldwide. However, one young woman has been particularly moved by her wisdom and humility; her daughter Akshata Murty. In a recent interview, the mother-daughter duo recounted nostalgic moments from their relationship and shared the best values they have learnt from each other.  

Speaking to The Times, Akshata Murty, an entrepreneur, said, “I grew up with my mum’s stories about working in a man’s world, pushing frontiers and opening doors that were closed to her. She lives by her values, hard work, authenticity and a passion for learning. She has never needed external validation." 

The former First Lady of Britain shared that her biggest takeaway has been, "It’s OK to live by your own North Star even if your journey is different from everyone else’s, and mine has been pretty different." Sudha Murty responded by describing Akshata as sincere, sensitive and caring. She mentioned that her daughter never blames anyone for anything and thinks very logically.

Sudha Murty also shared how being in the public eye has influenced their relationship. "Being in the public eye means you don’t have control and that’s been hard for Akshata. She’s not talkative like me, she’s an introvert like my husband. I’m fun-loving, and Akshata is more serious, analytical and organised...  She’s systematic. She takes bottom-line responsibility."

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A post shared by Akshata Murty (@akshatamurty_official)

A Role Model Mother

Beyond her personal life, Akshata Murty often honours her mother's role as an inspiration for women worldwide. When Sudha Murty was nominated to the Rajya Sabha, Akshata praised her as a role model for women, highlighting the importance of mentors for women and girls in business. She also honoured her mother's achievements during an International Women's Day event in the UK. 

"I know the phenomenal work that goes into running a business. My mother's endeavours in science, technology, engineering and maths allowed her to push boundaries both academically and professionally and gave her a ringside seat to the technological revolution... I hope other women and girls are inspired by role models around them to pursue their passion," she said. 

Sudha Murty's Legacy

On March 8, Sudha Murty was nominated among 12 members for the Rajya Sabha, the Upper House of the Indian Parliament. She has done extensive work in contributing to the nation's development, with efforts to uplift underprivileged societies and empower women. Accepting the nomination to the Rajya Sabha, Sudha Murty wrote on X (Twitter) that it is a big Women's Day gift.

Sudha Murty holds a Padma Bhushan and the Padma Shri awards, two of the highest civilian awards in India, for her remarkable social work and contribution to nation-building. Originally from Hubli, Karnataka, she began her career as an engineer with TELCO (now Tata Motors). She is currently the chairperson of the Infosys Foundation and a prolific English and Kannada writer. Her books have been translated into several languages and enjoyed by people of all ages.

Murty recently appeared on The Rulebreaker Show with Shaili Chopra, where she disclosed a never-seen-before side of her. She unabashedly discussed taboo topics like menopause, hormonal changes, and difficult times in her relationship. She also gave a glimpse into her life as a young trailblazer, ready to break out of conventions to take on challenges.