Everything You Need to Know About Rishi Sunak‘s Wife: Akshata Murty
Rishi Sunak, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, is a well-known figure in British politics. However, less is known about his wife, Akshata Murty. As the daughter of one of India’s wealthiest entrepreneurs and a successful businesswoman in her own right, Akshata Murty’s life is as intriguing as it is inspiring. This article explores Akshata Murty’s background, career, personal life, and the influence she has had on her husband’s political career.
Early Life and Family Background
Birth and Family
Akshata Narayan Murty was born in April 1980 in Hubli, Karnataka, India. She is the daughter of N.R. Narayana Murthy, the co-founder of Infosys, an Indian multinational corporation that provides business consulting, information technology, and outsourcing services. Her mother, Sudha Murty, is an accomplished author and social worker. Akshata has a brother, Rohan Murty, who is also a notable entrepreneur and academic.
Education
Akshata’s education reflects her privileged background and the value her family placed on learning. She attended Claremont McKenna College in California, where she studied Economics and French. Later, she pursued a diploma in Apparel Manufacturing Technology at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles. Her educational journey didn’t stop there; Akshata also earned an MBA from Stanford University, where she met her future husband, Rishi Sunak.
Career and Business Ventures
Early Career
After completing her education, Akshata Murty worked at various companies, including Deloitte and Unilever, gaining experience in finance and marketing. However, her entrepreneurial spirit soon led her to venture into the fashion industry.
Fashion Label
In 2007, Akshata launched her own fashion label, Akshata Designs. Her brand focused on celebrating Indian culture through contemporary designs. Despite her passion and creativity, the business faced challenges and eventually closed. However, this venture highlighted her dedication to promoting Indian heritage and craftsmanship.
Involvement in Catamaran Ventures
Akshata plays a significant role in Catamaran Ventures, a family-owned venture capital firm co-founded by her father. The firm invests in promising start-ups and has a diversified portfolio, ranging from tech companies to hospitality businesses. Akshata’s role involves strategic decision-making and oversight of investments, leveraging her business acumen and network.
Board Memberships and Philanthropy
Akshata is also known for her involvement in various boards and philanthropic activities. She serves on the board of several companies and organizations, contributing her expertise to their strategic growth. Additionally, she is actively involved in philanthropy through the Infosys Foundation, which focuses on education, healthcare, rural development, and arts and culture.
Personal Life
Meeting Rishi Sunak
Akshata met Rishi Sunak at Stanford University, where they were both pursuing their MBA degrees. Their shared interests and values quickly brought them together, and they married in 2009 in a lavish ceremony in Bangalore, India. Krishna and Anoushka complete the duo of daughters in this loving couple’s embrace.
Life in the UK
After their marriage, Akshata and Rishi moved to the UK, where Rishi began his career in finance before transitioning into politics. The family lives in North Yorkshire, and they also have a residence in Kensington, London.
Balancing Family and Career
Balancing a demanding career with family life is no small feat, but Akshata manages to do so with grace. She is known for her support of Rishi’s political career, often attending events and engaging with constituents. Despite her high-profile background, she maintains a relatively low public profile, focusing on her family and business interests.
Influence on Rishi Sunak’s Political Career
Supportive Partner
Akshata’s support has been crucial to Rishi Sunak’s political career. Her understanding of business and economics has provided valuable insights for Rishi, who has held significant positions such as Chancellor of the Exchequer before becoming Prime Minister. Her involvement in philanthropic activities aligns with the couple’s commitment to public service.
Public Perception and Media Attention
As the wife of a prominent politician, Akshata has received significant media attention. Her background and wealth have sometimes been the focus of scrutiny, especially regarding their tax affairs and investments. Despite this, Akshata remains a respected figure, known for her intelligence, dedication, and philanthropic efforts.
Philanthropic Efforts and Public Service
Akshata’s philanthropic work complements her husband’s public service, emphasizing their shared commitment to giving back to society. Through the Infosys Foundation and other initiatives, they have contributed to various causes, from education to healthcare, impacting many lives positively.
Akshata Murty’s Net Worth and Wealth
Inheritance and Personal Wealth
As the daughter of Narayana Murthy, Akshata has a substantial inheritance. Infosys, founded by her father, is a multi-billion dollar company, and Akshata holds a significant stake in it. Her personal wealth is estimated to be in the hundreds of millions, making her one of the wealthiest women in the UK.
Investments and Assets
Apart from her inheritance, Akshata has built her wealth through smart investments and business ventures. She owns several properties, including their homes in North Yorkshire and Kensington. Her involvement in Catamaran Ventures also contributes to her wealth, as the firm has made successful investments in various industries.
Public Image and Media Representation
Media Scrutiny
Being in the public eye, Akshata Murty has faced media scrutiny, particularly regarding her wealth and tax status. In 2022, it was revealed that she held non-domiciled status in the UK, allowing her to avoid paying UK taxes on her overseas income. This sparked controversy and debate about tax fairness, although Akshata eventually chose to pay UK taxes on her global income.
Philanthropy and Public Perception
Despite the scrutiny, Akshata is widely respected for her philanthropic efforts and dedication to social causes. Her work through the Infosys Foundation and other charitable activities has earned her admiration. She is seen as a compassionate individual committed to making a positive impact on society.
Role as a Political Spouse
Akshata’s role as a political spouse involves balancing her own career and public duties with supporting her husband’s political ambitions. She maintains a delicate balance, offering support without overshadowing Rishi’s work. Her understanding of economics and business provides valuable support to Rishi’s policy-making.
Akshata Murty’s Contributions to Society
Educational Initiatives
Akshata’s contributions to education through the Infosys Foundation are noteworthy. The foundation has funded numerous educational initiatives, from building libraries to providing scholarships for underprivileged students. Her commitment to education reflects her belief in its power to transform lives.
Healthcare and Rural Development
The Infosys Foundation, with Akshata’s involvement, has made significant contributions to healthcare and rural development in India. The foundation has built hospitals, funded medical research, and supported rural infrastructure projects, improving the quality of life for many.
Arts and Culture
Akshata is also passionate about arts and culture. Through the Infosys Foundation and other initiatives, she has supported various cultural projects, including the preservation of traditional arts and funding for contemporary artists. Her efforts help promote and preserve India’s rich cultural heritage.
Future Prospects and Influence
Continuing Philanthropy
Akshata Murty’s philanthropic efforts are expected to continue growing, with a focus on education, healthcare, and rural development. Her influence in these areas will likely expand, benefiting more people and communities.
Influence on UK-India Relations
Given her background and connections, Akshata Murty could play a role in strengthening UK-India relations. Her understanding of both cultures and economies positions her uniquely to contribute to diplomatic and economic ties between the two countries.
Supporting Rishi Sunak’s Political Career
As Rishi Sunak’s political career progresses, Akshata’s support and influence will remain crucial. Her business acumen and philanthropic work complement his political agenda, creating a powerful partnership that can drive positive change.
Conclusion
Akshata Murty is much more than the wife of a prominent politician; she is a successful businesswoman, dedicated philanthropist, and influential figure in her own right. Her background, career, and personal life offer a compelling story of ambition, dedication, and impact. As Rishi Sunak’s wife, she plays a significant role in his political journey, providing unwavering support and valuable insights. Through her philanthropic efforts and business ventures, Akshata continues to make a positive impact on society, ensuring her legacy extends beyond her association with her husband.
