The Times of India reported that on September 3, as part of the Times of India’s “Teach for India” Leaders Week, Infosys co-founder and tech tycoon N Narayana Murthy imparted life lessons to young schoolchildren at the Mount Everest School in Byatarayanapura.
When asked by a child how to become like him, Narayana Murthy expressed that he hopes they will surpass him, according to the report. It is not my intention for you to emulate me. He answered, “For the benefit of the countries as a whole, I want you to surpass me.
Murthy spent an hour speaking to students from classes 7 and 8, imparting valuable life lessons on the importance of discipline, teamwork, giving, and being a responsible citizen, according to the report.
On discipline…
Reflecting on his own experience of studying at a government school and being “taught by teachers much like yours,” Murthy shared that while he excelled in science and math, he struggled with civics, geography, and history, according to the report. Despite these challenges, it was his father who instilled in him the importance of time management and discipline, which ultimately helped him secure the fourth rank in his state in the SSLC exam. Murthy credited his father for cultivating these habits and shaping his life, the report added.
On the joy of giving…
The report stated that Murthy also acknowledged his mother for imparting to him the “second important lesson… the joy of giving.” He mentioned that in 1961, he placed fourth in his SSLC exams and was awarded a scholarship for ₹900. He gave the money to his mother. According to the story, he asked to provide his brother with the stylish new shirt and pants he had requested for ₹50 the following day.
He added that although he was initially disappointed, he found inspiration after watching a play about the mythological character Karna, which led him to give the clothes to his brother. According to the report, Murthy mentioned that his brother still fondly remembers this act of kindness. This experience taught him that “true joy comes from sharing and caring for others.”
On being responsible citizens…
Murthy also discussed the importance of civic responsibility with the children, sharing an anecdote about his headmaster’s reaction when he was “stingy” with something as simple as salt during a chemistry experiment. The lesson? “This common salt belongs to everyone in this school, not just me. We must treat it with care, as it is community property.” Murthy explained that this mindset “shaped his approach to founding and running Infosys.”
In addition, Murthy emphasized the importance of teamwork, telling students that effective communication is key to maintaining strong relationships. He also advised that decisions should always be made based on what benefits the entire team, according to the report.
Murthy further discussed leadership and responsibility, recalling a lesson from his boss, Colin, during his time in Paris. Colin had assisted Murthy in restoring a system, and without disclosing his personal sacrifice, Colin later commended him for his commitment. Murthy shared that this experience taught him a vital leadership lesson: take full responsibility for failures and share the success with your team. He concluded by saying that these lessons continue to be invaluable in his life.