In an exclusive conversation, Akshata Murty, daughter of Infosys founder Narayana Murthy and a prominent figure in her own right, has made a compelling case for why the youth of India need to rekindle their passion for history. The discussion, held on December 4, 2025, centered on her innovative series, 'Stories + 10 Objects', which uses tangible artifacts to unlock the nation's rich past.
Bridging Generations Through Tangible History
Murty's project is not a conventional history lesson. Instead, it focuses on the power of physical objects to serve as portals to different eras. She passionately argues that these artifacts hold an unmatched ability to ignite curiosity and imagination. By examining a single object, she demonstrates how one can traverse time, connecting with the lives, cultures, and innovations of ancestors. This approach, she believes, makes history accessible and emotionally resonant, effectively bridging the gap not only between cultures but crucially between generations.
The Intertwining of Creativity, Curiosity, and Culture
A core theme of Murty's message is the deep and beautiful interconnection between creativity, curiosity, and culture. She highlighted that understanding historical context is not about memorizing dates but about comprehending the creative impulses and cultural evolutions that shaped society. For a young, aspirational India driving global innovation, she posits that this historical grounding is essential. It provides a unique foundation for creative thinking, fostering a sense of identity and continuity that can inspire future solutions.
A Call to Action for the Digital Generation
Murty's appeal is particularly directed at a generation often perceived as focused on the future and digital realms. She challenges this notion, suggesting that a robust connection with the past is what will empower them to build a better future. By falling in love with history again, young Indians can gain perspective, resilience, and a profound sense of belonging. Her series acts as a catalyst for this journey, showing that every historical object has a story waiting to be told—a story that can spark dialogue, understanding, and a renewed pride in India's multifaceted heritage.
The full interview, which delves deeper into specific objects and their stories from the 'Stories + 10 Objects' series, is available to watch. Murty's initiative stands as a timely reminder that in the rush towards tomorrow, the keys to imagination and identity often lie in the artifacts of yesterday.
