Neeru Deshpande’s name has frequently aroused interest, primarily because of its connection to well-known legends surrounding the famous Parle-G biscuit cover girl. Although many people think she was the real “Parle-G girl,” the name actually suggests a story closely related to Sudha Murthy, the renowned author, philanthropist, and chairperson of the Infosys Foundation. The truth is revealed, her biography is examined, and the inspirational life story of this iconic person is highlighted in this article.
Who is Neeru Deshpande (Sudha Murthy)?
Neeru Deshpande is frequently regarded as a misidentified personality who is associated with the Parle-G brand. The name was eventually linked to the innovative writer, social worker, and engineer Sudha Murthy. She is respected for her literary contributions as well as her charitable endeavors in rural development, healthcare, and education.
Neeru Deshpande Biography Overview
Category | Details |
Full Name | Sudha Murthy (née Kulkarni) |
Nick Name | Neeru Deshpande |
Real NAme | Sudha Kulkarni Murthy |
Date of Birth | 19 August 1950 |
Age | 74 Years old as of 2025 |
Birthplace | Shiggaon, Karnataka, India |
Nationality | Indian |
Profession | Author, Philanthropist, Engineer, Chairperson of Infosys Foundation |
Religion | Hinduism |
Zodiac Sign | Leo |
Height | 5 ft 1 in |
Weight | 65 kg |
Eye Color | Black |
Hair Color | Grey |
Education | B.E. in Electrical Engineering, M.E. in Computer Science |
Marital Status | Married |
Husband | N.R. Narayana Murthy (Co-founder of Infosys) |
Children | Rohan Murthy, Akshata Murthy |
Net Worth | ₹270 Crore |
Awards | Padma Shri (2006), Padma Bhushan (2023) |
Neeru Deshpande Age & Birth Date
Neeru Deshpande, also known as Sudha Murthy, was born on August 19, 1950, and as of 2025, she is 74 years old. Her active social work and writing continue to inspire millions of people despite her advanced age.
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Neeru Deshpande Real Name
Sudha Kulkarni Murthy is her true name. Though it actually refers to the same legendary figure, the name “Neeru Deshpande” gained popularity as a result of online rumors.
Neeru Deshpande Height & Physical Stats
Aspect | Details |
Height | in cm – 155 cm in m – 1.55 m in ft & in – 5 ft 1 in |
Weight | 65 kg |
Eye Color | Black |
Hair Color | Grey |
Body Type | Average, Simple Lifestyle |
Neeru Deshpande Parle-G Early Life
For years, there has been a persistent myth that Neeru Deshpande was the Parle-G girl. The Parle-G image was actually an illustration rather than a real person. The early years of Neeru Deshpande, which are frequently linked to this tale, actually belong to Sudha Murthy, who was brought up in a highly educated family in Karnataka.
Neeru Deshpande (Sudha Murthy) Husband and Personal Life

The inspiring co-founder of Infosys, N.R. Narayana Murthy, is the spouse of Neeru Deshpande (Sudha Murthy). Rohan and Akshata Murthy are the couple’s two children, who were married in 1978. Akshata, their daughter, is married to British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
Family Background of Neeru Deshpande (Sudha Murthy)
She came from a cultured and educated family. Her mother was a homemaker who instilled strong values in her children, and her father was a famous surgeon. Sudha was raised in a setting that valued education, thrift, and civic duty.
Education Background of Neeru Deshpande (Sudha Murthy)
Sudha Murthy excelled academically from an early age. She graduated first in her class with a B.E. in Electrical Engineering from B.V.B. College of Engineering & Technology. She later established the groundwork for her professional career by pursuing a Master’s in Computer Science from the esteemed Indian Institute of Science (IISc).
Career Journey of Neeru Deshpande (Sudha Murthy)
- Engineer: First female engineer recruited by TELCO (Tata Motors), shattering gender boundaries in the workplace.
- Infosys Foundation: Had a significant role in overseeing the firm’s social welfare initiatives, such as rural development, education, and healthcare.
- Author: Authored bestsellers in English and Kannada like Wise and Otherwise, Three Thousand Stitches, The Day I Stopped Drinking Milk, and How I Taught My Grandmother to Read.
- Philanthropy: Contributed book royalties to social causes and worked considerably in the construction of libraries, schools, and hospitals.
Neeru Deshpande Net Worth & Income
An estimated 270 crore rupees is her personal net worth. Their wealth, when combined with that of the Murthy family, amounts to thousands of crores, but Sudha Murthy is respected for her modesty and straightforward way of life.
Social Media Presence
On social media, Sudha Murthy maintains a low profile. Although she doesn’t do much herself, official pages and foundation initiatives frequently highlight her literary contributions, events, and works.
Interesting Facts about Neeru Deshpande (Sudha Murthy)
- She was the first female engineer at TELCO.
- Wrote a letter to J.R.D. Tata that led to her historic appointment.
- Donates all book royalties to charity.
- Prefers simplicity—often travels economy class and wears handloom sarees.
- Her writings are part of several Indian school curricula.
- She is passionate about Indian traditions and rural development.
- Awarded Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan for her contributions.
- Her daughter Akshata Murthy is married to UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
- Believes in living a minimalist and socially responsible lifestyle.
Conclusion
Neeru Deshpande’s story is an intriguing blend of myth and fact. The name accurately captures the remarkable journey of Sudha Murthy—a woman of inspiration, wisdom, and compassion—even though the Parle-G connection is still only a rumor. Her life continues to inspire millions, from shattering engineering stereotypes to influencing generations through philanthropy and literature.
FAQs
Who is Neeru Deshpande (Sudha Murthy)?
Neeru Deshpande is a name mistakenly linked with the Parle-G girl. In reality, it refers to Sudha Murthy, the renowned author and philanthropist.
What is her real name?
Her real name is Sudha Kulkarni Murthy.
Is Neeru Deshpande the Parle-G girl?
No, the Parle-G girl is a drawn illustration, not a real person.
Who is her husband?
She is married to N.R. Narayana Murthy, co-founder of Infosys.
What are her notable books?
Some of her popular books are Wise and Otherwise, Three Thousand Stitches, How I Taught My Grandmother to Read, and The Day I Stopped Drinking Milk.
What awards has she won?
She has been honored with the Padma Shri (2006) and Padma Bhushan (2023).
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