Narayana Murthy, born on August 20, 1946, in Shidlaghatta, Karnataka, is a distinguished Indian businessman who became a key figure in shaping the global IT industry. As one of the co-founders of Infosys, Murthy is widely regarded as a visionary entrepreneur who played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the Indian tech landscape. Over the years, his journey has garnered numerous accolades and recognitions, making him a celebrated figure not only in India but globally.
With a net worth estimated at $5.0 billion as of January 2025, according to Forbes, Murthy’s contributions to the IT sector are unparalleled. He led Infosys as its CEO from 1981 to 2002 and later as chairman from 2002 to 2011. His visionary leadership and strategic direction helped Infosys grow into a global powerhouse, known for its innovative approach to IT outsourcing. In 2011, he retired from the company, taking on the title of chairman emeritus before briefly returning as executive chairman in 2013.
Early Life and Education
Murthy was born into a middle-class Brahmin family in Karnataka, and from a young age, he showed a keen interest in education. After completing his schooling, he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the National Institute of Engineering in 1967. He then went on to earn a Master’s degree from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur in 1969. In 2007, his contributions to the industry were acknowledged with an honorary degree from Lancaster University.
The Genesis of Infosys
Murthy’s career began in academia, where he worked as a research associate at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad, later transitioning to roles at Patni Computer Systems. In 1981, he co-founded Infosys with six other software professionals, with an initial capital of just Rs 10,000, provided by his wife, Sudha Murthy. Under his leadership, Infosys pioneered the global delivery model for IT services outsourcing from India, forever changing the trajectory of the IT outsourcing industry.
Murthy’s remarkable leadership skills and entrepreneurial vision helped Infosys grow from a small startup into one of the largest IT services firms in the world. He served as the company’s CEO for 21 years and as chairman for nearly a decade before retiring in 2011, continuing to guide the company as chairman emeritus.
Global Recognition and Influence
Narayana Murthy’s influence stretches far beyond Infosys. He has been recognized internationally for his contributions to the IT sector and the global business community. Time magazine and CNBC hailed him as the “father of the Indian IT sector” for his trailblazing work in IT outsourcing. In 2005, Murthy co-chaired the prestigious World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, further cementing his place as a global business leader.
Murthy’s efforts have earned him numerous accolades, including the Padma Vibhushan and Padma Shri awards, two of India’s highest civilian honors. Additionally, he was recognized as one of the 12 greatest entrepreneurs of our time by Fortune magazine. His achievements reflect his commitment to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and corporate responsibility.
Contributions to Governance and Education
In addition to his work in the tech industry, Murthy has been actively involved in governance and philanthropic initiatives. He has served on the boards of several prominent global corporations, including HSBC, DBS Bank, Unilever, and ICICI. Murthy is also a prominent figure in educational and philanthropic circles, serving as a trustee and advisor to various institutions, such as Cornell University, INSEAD, and the Ford Foundation. He is also deeply involved with the Public Health Foundation of India and serves as a trustee of the Infosys Prize.
Murthy’s belief in social responsibility is further demonstrated by his investment in SKS Microfinance, and his participation in organizations that focus on education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation.
Personal Life
Murthy’s personal life is as impressive as his professional career. His wife, Sudha Murthy, is an educator, author, and philanthropist who chairs the Infosys Foundation, which focuses on a wide range of charitable activities in India. The couple has two children, Rohan and Akshata. Rohan, after working with Infosys, founded his own company, Soroco, in 2014. Akshata married British-Indian politician Rishi Sunak in 2009. Sunak later went on to become the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 2022 to 2024.
Recognition and Awards
Murthy’s work has earned him numerous awards throughout his career. Some of the notable accolades he has received include the Padma Shri (2000), the Padma Vibhushan (2008), and the Ernst & Young World Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2003. He has also been recognized with honorary degrees, leadership awards, and international honors such as the Officer of the Legion of Honour from the French government.
Books by Narayana Murthy
Murthy is also a published author, sharing his experiences, thoughts, and business insights through several books, including:
- A Better India: A Better World (2009)
- The Wit and Wisdom of Narayana Murthy (2016)
- A Clear Blue Sky: Stories and Poems on Conflict and Hope (2017)
- Mere Business Mantra (Hindi)
Legacy and Impact
Narayana Murthy’s life and career have left an indelible mark on the world. He not only transformed Infosys into a global leader but also became a symbol of the entrepreneurial spirit that has defined the Indian IT industry. His legacy is built on values of innovation, integrity, and social responsibility, which continue to inspire generations of entrepreneurs, business leaders, and young professionals worldwide.