Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, the author of acclaimed books like “The Forest of Illusions”, “The Forest of Enchantments” and “Independence” is all set to release her first non-fiction book “An Uncommon Love: The Early Life of Sudha and Narayana Murthy”.
The book tells the love story of two brilliant individuals from different backgrounds who overcame life’s challenges to create a strong partnership that has lasted for over five decades: the serious, idealistic and brilliant Narayana Murthy and the pragmatic, cheerful and competent Sudha.
In an interview with Asian Voice, the author discusses all things about her new book and what went on behind putting the story of the Murthys together.
What inspired you to delve into the early years of Sudha and Narayana Murthy's lives for your upcoming book?
The publisher approached me to write this biography. I have known the Murthy’s for many years, and I felt this book about their early life, challenges and heartwarming personal stories, would inspire many readers.
What was the research process for the book like? What is the most intriguing aspect about Sudha and Narayana Murthy's relationship that compelled you to share their story with readers?
The research process, which took about two years, involved email questions and answers, many Zoom meetings, and finally, quite a few days when I went and lived in Bangalore with the Murthys. The most intriguing aspect of their relationship is that though they are very different from each other and often disagree, they are unfailingly supportive of each other's dreams and projects.
How did you approach researching and narrating the various dynamic periods in Sudha and Narayana Murthy's lives?
Apart from regular research through third party sources, I sat down and asked them to tell me stories about these days. What did they remember? What did they feel? Which incidents went deep into them and changed them? I also spoke to their siblings and their children. These formed the core of this dynamic period.
Balancing a career, motherhood, and being a "start-up wife" is no small feat. What insights did you gain into Sudha Murty’s experiences, navigating these roles?
What I learned and appreciated is that Sudha is at once idealistic and pragmatic. She always had a vision and a goal, but she adjusted to her circumstances. One of her sayings that I loved was, "How much masala I have, that much sambar I make!"
What aspects of Sudha and Narayana Murthy's entrepreneurial journey surprised you the most during your research?
What surprised me most was that Sudha was actually a better engineer and mathematician than Murthy was—and he admits it freely. It was she who created the mathematical model that enabled him to win his first contract with MICO.
Can you tease one aspect or moment from the book that readers can look forward to?
I think readers will be charmed by their romantic episodes while they were dating, and how Murthy, who is usually such a stickler for rules, broke several of them for Sudha's sake!
