True Joy Lies In ...: Infosys' Narayana Murthy Motivates Young Minds

Murthy addressed students from classes 7 and 8 for an hour, sharing life lessons on topics such as discipline, teamwork, the value of giving, and the importance of being a responsible citizen

Infosys co-founder and tech visionary N. Narayana Murthy shared valuable life lessons with young students at Mount Everest School in Byatarayanapura on Monday during an event organised by The Times of India. When a child asked how to follow in his footsteps, Murthy responded by expressing his desire for the child to surpass him. 

According to a TOI report, he said, “I do not want you to become like me...I want you to become better than me for the greater good of the nations."

Murthy addressed students from classes 7 and 8 for an hour, sharing life lessons on topics such as discipline, teamwork, the value of giving, and the importance of being a responsible citizen, according to the report.

Reflecting on his schooling experience, Murthy recounted studying at a government school and being taught by teachers similar to those at Mount Everest School. He noted that while he excelled in science and math, he struggled with civics, geography, and history. According to the report, his father instilled the values of time management and discipline, ultimately helping him achieve the fourth rank in his state in the SSLC exam. Murthy credited his father with fostering these habits and significantly influencing his life.

Murthy also acknowledged his mother for imparting the "second most important lesson"—the joy of giving. He recounted receiving a scholarship of Rs 900 for achieving fourth place in his SSLC exams in 1961. He handed the entire amount to his mother but requested Rs 50 for a stylish new shirt and pants. Instead, his mother asked him to give the money to his brother the following day, as per the report.

True Joy Lies In Sharing

Murthy mentioned that although he was initially disappointed, his perspective changed after watching a play about the mythological character Karna. Inspired by the play, he decided to give the clothes to his brother. Murthy noted that his brother still fondly recalls that act of generosity, and he learned from the experience that "true joy lies in sharing and caring for others," according to the report.

Murthy also addressed the children about civic responsibility, sharing a memorable lesson from his headmaster. During a chemistry experiment, the headmaster criticised him for being "stingy" with something as inexpensive as salt. He explained, “This common salt belongs to everyone in the school, not just to me. We must handle it with care because it is community property.” Murthy reflected that this lesson significantly influenced his approach to founding and managing Infosys.

In addition, Murthy highlighted the importance of teamwork, stressing that effective communication is essential for maintaining strong relationships. He advised that decisions should prioritise the team's overall benefit.

Regarding leadership and responsibility, Murthy recounted an experience with his boss, Colin, in Paris. Colin helped restore a system and commended Murthy for his dedication while modestly omitting his own sacrifices. From Colin, Murthy learned a crucial leadership lesson: "Take full responsibility for failures and share the credit with your team.” He noted that these lessons remain invaluable to him today.