Best of Sudha Murthy: Top 10 Books You Must Read
Sudha Murthy, a prominent Indian author, philanthropist, and chairperson of the Infosys Foundation, has left an indelible mark on literature with her compelling storytelling and insightful narratives. Her books, which cover a wide range of genres including fiction, non-fiction, and children’s literature, have resonated with readers of all ages and backgrounds. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the top 10 bestselling books by Sudha Murthy, each offering a unique perspective on life, society, and the human experience.
1. Wise and Otherwise: A Salute to Life -Sudha Murthy
“Wise and Otherwise” is perhaps one of Sudha Murthy’s most celebrated works, a poignant collection of real-life anecdotes and experiences that offer profound insights into the human condition. Through her encounters with people from diverse backgrounds and walks of life, Murthy sheds light on the complexities of human nature and the importance of empathy, compassion, and understanding. From heartwarming tales of kindness to sobering accounts of hardship and resilience, each story in this collection leaves a lasting impression on the reader, reminding us of the beauty and complexity of the world we live in.
2. The Old Man and His God: Discovering the Spirit of India
-Sudha Murthy
In “The Old Man and His God,” Sudha Murthy takes readers on a captivating journey across India, introducing them to a cast of extraordinary characters and their extraordinary stories. From the bustling streets of Mumbai to the tranquil villages of Karnataka, Murthy’s evocative prose paints a vivid portrait of the diverse tapestry of Indian life. Through her encounters with beggars, rickshaw drivers, and street vendors, Murthy celebrates the resilience, faith, and spirit of the Indian people, offering readers a deeper understanding of the country they call home.
3. Dollar Bahu-Sudha Murthy
“Dollar Bahu” is a compelling exploration of family dynamics, cultural differences, and the clash between tradition and modernity. The story revolves around Vinuta, a traditional Indian woman, and her Americanized daughter-in-law, who represents everything Vinuta’s family aspires to be. As tensions simmer and misunderstandings arise, Sudha Murthy skillfully navigates the complexities of intergenerational conflict and the struggle for identity in a rapidly globalizing world. Through Vinuta’s journey of self-discovery and reconciliation, readers are reminded of the importance of understanding, acceptance, and forgiveness in the face of cultural divide.
4. Mahashweta -Sudha Murthy
Inspired by a true story, “Mahashweta” is a powerful narrative that sheds light on the social stigma surrounding leprosy in India. The protagonist, Anupama, is a young woman affected by the disease, whose life is forever changed by society’s prejudice and discrimination. Through Anupama’s journey of resilience and self-acceptance, Sudha Murthy confronts the harsh realities of leprosy and challenges readers to rethink their perceptions of beauty, worth, and human dignity. “Mahashweta” is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of compassion to overcome adversity.
5. How I Taught My Grandmother to Read and Other Stories -Sudha Murthy
In “How I Taught My Grandmother to Read and Other Stories,” Sudha Murthy invites readers into the heartwarming world of her childhood, where simple acts of kindness and generosity leave a lasting impact. From the innocence of childhood to the wisdom of old age, Murthy’s stories celebrate the timeless values of love, compassion, and generosity, reminding us of the power of human connection to transcend barriers of age, culture, and language. Whether it’s teaching her grandmother to read or befriending a lonely stranger, each story in this collection is a testament to the transformative power of empathy and understanding in our everyday lives.
6. Gently Falls the Bakula-Sudha Murthy
Set against the backdrop of a traditional Indian marriage, “Gently Falls the Bakula” is a poignant exploration of love, ambition, and sacrifice. The story follows the lives of Shrimati and Shrikant, childhood sweethearts whose dreams of a bright future are threatened by societal expectations and personal aspirations. As Shrimati sacrifices her own dreams to support Shrikant’s career ambitions, Sudha Murthy delves into the complexities of marital relationships and the sacrifices we make for the ones we love. “Gently Falls the Bakula” is a timeless tale of love, resilience, and the enduring power of the human spirit.
7. The Magic Drum and Other Favourite Stories -Sudha Murthy
“The Magic Drum and Other Favourite Stories” is a delightful collection of children’s tales that spark the imagination and ignite a love for storytelling. From talking animals to magical adventures, Sudha Murthy’s enchanting stories captivate young readers and instill valuable life lessons about kindness, courage, and perseverance. Whether it’s the story of a clever crow outwitting a hungry fox or a brave prince rescuing a princess from an evil sorcerer, each tale in this collection is brimming with excitement, adventure, and moral insight.
8. Grandma's Bag of Stories -Sudha Murthy
“Grandma’s Bag of Stories” is a treasure trove of timeless tales that transport readers to a world of wonder and enchantment. Inspired by Sudha Murthy’s own childhood memories, this charming collection celebrates the joy of storytelling and the bond between grandparents and grandchildren. From the mythical creatures of Indian folklore to the everyday adventures of curious children, each story in this collection is a testament to the power of imagination and the magic of childhood. Whether it’s the tale of a brave prince rescuing a captured princess or a mischievous monkey causing chaos in the jungle, “Grandma’s Bag of Stories” is sure to delight readers of all ages.
9. The Serpent's Revenge: Unusual Tales from the Mahabharata -Sudha Murthy
“The Serpent’s Revenge” offers a fresh perspective on the timeless epic of the Mahabharata, retold through Sudha Murthy’s unique lens. From untold stories of lesser-known characters to insightful reflections on moral dilemmas and ethical conundrums, Murthy’s reinterpretation breathes new life into this ancient saga. Through her vivid storytelling and thought-provoking commentary, Murthy invites readers to explore the deeper themes and timeless lessons of the Mahabharata, from the nature of power and ambition to the complexities of human relationships.
10. The Day I Stopped Drinking Milk: Life Lessons from Here and There -Sudha Murthy
In “The Day I Stopped Drinking Milk,” Sudha Murthy shares a delightful collection of anecdotes and observations drawn from her own life experiences. With wit, warmth, and humor, Murthy imparts valuable life lessons that inspire readers to embrace the challenges and joys of everyday living. Whether it’s the story of a chance encounter with a wise old man or a humorous anecdote about navigating the complexities of modern life, each tale in this collection is a reminder of the beauty, wonder, and unpredictability of the world we live in.
Conclusion:
Sudha Murthy’s books have touched the hearts and minds of readers across generations, offering profound insights into the human condition and the complexities of life. Whether you’re a fan of fiction, non-fiction, or children’s literature, there’s something for everyone in Sudha Murthy’s diverse body of work. So why wait? Dive into the world of Sudha Murthy books today and experience the magic for yourself!
