From Not Buying ‘Saree’ in 21 Years To Investing In Books, Sudha Murthy’s Simplicity Will Inspire You

In a world, where people are busy showing off the expensive luxury they own, Infosys Foundation chairperson Sudha Murthy’s simplicity is something that our world needs more than ever.

Among the rich and famous, Sudha Murthy stands out not only for her achievements but also for her values. Unlike her counterparts, she doesn’t clad herself in expensive dresses or jewelry. Rather, she has a completely different approach to materialism.

It may come as a surprise to many that Sudha, who could always be seen in simple sarees, has not bought a single one in the last 21 years.

The reason behind it is not only beautiful but also selfless and inspirational:

“I was in Kashi to take the holy dip, and when you go to Kashi you have to give up something that you enjoy the most. Gave up shopping, particularly sarees, from thereon. I now only buy essential items.”

In today’s time, when we are constantly bombarded by messages to buy expensive luxury goods to make ourselves happy, Sudha is a great example to follow. According to Sudha Murthy, taking this pledge to rid her of things she didn’t require in life gave her a sense of freedom. Now, that’s quite inspiring. Isn’t it?

She shares how we can free our souls by living life for ourselves, rather than for others.

“I always tell everyone to lead a simple life and listen to their conscience. The beauty of a person lies in simplicity and confidence; so live life for yourself and not for others.

It was Narayana Murthy’s simplicity that attracted me to him. He was simple, honest and never spoke about my beauty or my outfits, but believed in me as a good human being.”

Sudha Murthy shared that the only thing she and her husband spend lavishly on is books! On multiple occasions, she has suggested us to invest in books. The couple has an enormous collection of over 20,000 books sorted out in two libraries.

In one of the interviews, she mentioned why people should be encouraged to buy books instead of borrowing them. She remarks the only way writers will survive is if people buy their books, not borrow them.

She’s often faced prejudice for the way she chooses to live her life, especially in the way she dresses. But nothing managed to shake Sudha Murthy’s conviction to lead a simple life.

Sudha Murthy was once called ‘cattle class’ at the airport by an ignorant passenger who derided her for standing in the business class queue. But, Sudha gave them a piece of her mind:

“You refer to the term “cattle class”. Class does not mean possession of a huge amount of money. There are plenty of wrong ways to earn money in this world. You may be rich enough to buy comfort and luxuries, but the same money doesn’t define class or give you the ability to purchase it.”

We wish in a world where people are running after luxury, Sudha Murthy’s message will make people re-think about what is important in life!  

At IFORHER, we celebrate Sudha Murthy’s inspirational way of living. And, hope more people understand that happiness doesn’t come from buying expensive stuff, it comes from our thoughts and values!