Sudha Murty began her engineering career as the first female employee at TATA Engineering and Locomotive Company after sending a postcard to the Chairman to protest the firm's men-only hiring policy. This direct challenge initiated a professional life characterized by transitions between computer science, corporate systems analysis, and extensive literary output in Kannada and English.
Engineering and Academic Background
Born in 1950 in Shiggaon, India, Murty pursued technical studies before entering the workforce. She completed a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the B.V.B. College of Engineering and Technology, now known as KLE Technological University. Her academic path continued with a Master of Engineering in Computer Science obtained at the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru. Following her tenure at TELCO, she served as a Senior Systems Analyst for the Walchand Group of Industries in Pune.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Philanthropic Leadership
In 1996, Murty established the Infosys Foundation, a non-profit organization focused on social welfare initiatives. During her leadership, which lasted until 2020, she supported rural development efforts and the creation of library facilities in government schools throughout Karnataka. Her charitable work extends to public health as a participant in initiatives supported by the Gates Foundation and the founding of various orphanages. Internationally, she facilitated the establishment of the Murty Classical Library of India at Harvard University.
Literary Contributions
Murty has authored numerous books spanning fiction, non-fiction, travelogues, and memoirs. Her notable titles include How I Taught My Grandmother to Read and the novel Dollar Bahu, which was later adapted into a television series by Zee TV. Her story Runa served as the basis for the Marathi film Pitruroon. Beyond her writing, she contributed as a newspaper columnist in both English and Kannada.
Public Service and Recognition
The Government of India recognized Murty's service with the Padma Shri in 2006 and the Padma Bhushan in 2023. On March 8, 2024, she was nominated as a member of the Rajya Sabha. Her career has been marked by various honors, including the Raja-Lakshmi Award, the Daana Chintamani Attimabbe Award, and the Global Indian Award. She also received honorary degrees from institutions such as IIT Kanpur.
Fast facts
- Born: 1950, Shiggaon, India
- Education: KLE Technological University, Indian Institute of Science
- Key Role: Founder-Chairperson, Infosys Foundation
- Parliamentary Position: Member of Rajya Sabha (2024)
- Notable Book: How I Taught My Grandmother to Read
- Awards: Padma Shri (2006), Padma Bhushan (2023)
- Languages: English, Kannada
Questions readers ask
What was Sudha Murty's first professional role?
She was the first female engineer hired at TATA Engineering and Locomotive Company.
Which organizations has she supported?
She founded the Infosys Foundation and worked with the Gates Foundation on public health initiatives.
Achievements
- Notable work: How I Taught My Grandmother to Read
