(For GST TODAY Business Magazine)

N. R. Narayana Murthy – The Visionary Who Rewrote India’s IT Story

Few business leaders have shaped modern India as profoundly as N. R. Narayana Murthy, the Founder of Infosys. Widely regarded as the “Father of the Indian IT Industry,” Murthy transformed India’s global identity by proving that world-class software solutions could be built right here, with Indian talent, Indian values, and Indian innovation. For GST TODAY readers, his journey is a masterclass in ethical leadership, strategic clarity, and nation-building through technology.

A Humble Beginning with a Global Dream

Born in Mysuru in 1946, Narayana Murthy grew up in a modest middle-class family that valued education, discipline, and simplicity. He studied electrical engineering at the National Institute of Engineering and later completed his master’s degree at IIT Kanpur. These early academic years shaped his analytical thinking, curiosity for technology, and dream of making India a leader in the knowledge economy.

Before founding Infosys, Murthy worked in various engineering and management roles, including a stint at IIM Ahmedabad, where he was first exposed to the power of software and computing. But the entrepreneurial spark within him was unstoppable.

The Birth of Infosys: Built on Integrity & Intelligence

In 1981, with just ₹10,000 borrowed from his wife, Sudha Murty, Narayana Murthy co-founded Infosys along with six engineers. At a time when India lacked basic infrastructure—no computers, poor connectivity, slow bureaucracy—Murthy built a company anchored in ethics, transparency, and global standards.

His vision was clear:

• Take Indian talent to the world
• Deliver high-quality software solutions
• Operate with honesty and fairness
• Build an employee-centric organization

Infosys was the first Indian company to introduce many global practices, including ESOPs, transparent financial reporting, and world-class corporate governance. Murthy consistently believed that “performance leads to recognition; recognition brings respect; respect enhances power.”

Leading the Indian IT Revolution

Under Murthy’s leadership, Infosys became India’s most admired technology company. He championed the Global Delivery Model, a revolutionary concept that allowed software to be developed in India and delivered across the world—efficiently and cost-effectively.

His contributions include:

• Creating one of the world’s first offshore development centers
• Pioneering employee stock ownership plans in India
• Building state-of-the-art campuses that rivaled Silicon Valley
• Setting high benchmarks for corporate ethics and governance
• Establishing India as a trusted global technology partner

Infosys went public, achieved massive success on the NASDAQ, and became a symbol of India’s economic transformation. Under Murthy’s guidance, it grew from a seven-member startup to a global powerhouse employing hundreds of thousands.

A Leader Who Values People and Principles

Narayana Murthy’s leadership style is a rare blend of discipline, humility, and compassion. He is known for his simple lifestyle, clear thinking, and strong moral compass.

His core leadership beliefs include:

• “Customer is the king.”
• “Employees are the real owners of a company.”
• “Leave the company better than you found it.”
• “Power must always be used to empower others.”

He often credited Infosys’ success to teamwork, emphasizing that great companies are built by great people—not by individual leaders.

A Global Voice for Ethics, Education & Social Responsibility

Even after stepping down from active leadership, Murthy continues to influence India’s corporate and academic ecosystem. He mentors entrepreneurs, writes thought-provoking articles, and participates in global forums.

He strongly advocates for:

• Better public governance
• Transparent business practices
• Education and skill development
• Technology-driven growth
• Meritocracy and fairness

Through the Infosys Foundation and personal initiatives, he and Sudha Murty have supported countless social development programs across India.

A Legacy That Inspires India’s Future

Narayana Murthy’s journey is not just the story of a successful entrepreneur—it is the story of how one man’s vision helped place India on the world technology map. His values of integrity, hard work, and excellence have become guiding principles for generations of leaders and entrepreneurs.

Infosys stands today as a testament to Murthy’s belief that with the right talent and values, Indian companies can compete—and win—on the global stage.

Conclusion

N. R. Narayana Murthy remains an icon of Indian entrepreneurship, ethical leadership, and technological innovation. His life teaches that true success comes not just from profits, but from purpose, perseverance, and the commitment to uplift society. For GST TODAY readers, his story is a reminder that India’s greatest strength lies in its people—and in leaders who dare to dream boldly while staying rooted in values.