Sunak, Akshata 'feel proud' as Sudha Murty receives Padma Bhushan

Rishi Sunak, UK's first Indian-origin Prime Minister, and his wife Akshata Murty have expressed pride over Sudha Murty's Padma Bhushan recognition, which is the third-highest civilian award in India.

Akshata, who is also the First Lady at 10 Downing Street, attended the ceremony in New Delhi and shared her emotions towards her parents, Sudha Murty and Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy, on social media.

Sunak replied to her post, stating that it was “a proud day”.

“Yesterday I watched with unspeakable pride as my mother received the Padma Bhushan from the President of India,” Akshata posted on Twitter on Thursday (06) after her 72-year-old mother got the award.

In a post last month on International Women's Day, Akshata reflected on her mother's impressive journey, from STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) to storytelling, but it was her philanthropic and volunteer work that served as the greatest inspiration to her.

She mentioned that her mother has always asked if she can do more and has given back to her community in various ways for over 25 years, including founding and running philanthropic organisations, funding literacy initiatives, and helping those in need, especially in remote parts of India, after natural disasters have destroyed their lives.

Akshata expressed that her mother's example has influenced her to prioritise "volunteering, learning, and listening" in her life while residing at 10 Downing Street. She also shared that her mother is not driven by recognition and is always looking for ways to help others due to the values of hard work, humility, and selflessness that her parents have instilled in her and her brother.

Akshata added that it was a touching moment for her to witness her mother receive recognition for her contributions.

Rohan Murty, Akshata's brother, also expressed his admiration for their mother in a social media post, referring to her as a "positive force" in their lives. During the ceremony attended by her family, Murty gave an acceptance speech in which she expressed gratitude to the people of India for their unwavering support.

She credited them for her Padma Bhushan recognition and expressed hope that it would inspire younger generations to pursue social welfare as a vocation for the continual growth of the nation. Murty further added that the kindness of a few individuals can provide hope for millions.

(With inputs from PTI)