Three Thousand Stitches

Three Thousand Stitches is a collection of eleven real-life stories by Sudha Murthy, chronicling her experiences as a social worker and philanthropist in India. The central narrative follows her work with devadasis (temple prostitutes) in Karnataka and her mission to help them achieve financial independence. The book includes accounts of Murthy's personal journey from engineering student to grandmother, featuring her experiences as the only female student in her college and encounters with social prejudice. Each story stands alone while contributing to a larger narrative about social change and personal growth in modern India. These stories examine the intersection of tradition and progress, gender roles, and social transformation in Indian society. The work serves as a testament to the impact of grassroots activism and the power of sustained community engagement.

Readers describe this collection of real-life stories as simple, honest accounts that shed light on social issues in India. The stories resonate with many readers due to their personal, conversational tone. Readers appreciate: - Clear, straightforward writing style - Mix of humor and serious topics - Insights into Indian rural development - Personal experiences that feel authentic Common criticisms: - Writing can feel basic or unpolished - Some stories lack depth - Too much focus on the author's achievements - Repetitive themes across stories Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (6,800+ ratings) Amazon India: 4.5/5 (2,900+ ratings) Sample reader comments: "Like having a conversation with a wise grandmother" - Goodreads reviewer "Stories are inspiring but writing could be more sophisticated" - Amazon reviewer "Her humility comes through despite her accomplishments" - Flipkart reviewer The book ranks among Sudha Murty's most-reviewed works on major platforms.

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🔸 The title "Three Thousand Stitches" refers to a quilt made by 3,000 devadasi women whom Sudha Murthy helped rehabilitate through her social work with the Infosys Foundation. 🔸 Before becoming an author and philanthropist, Sudha Murthy was the first female engineer hired at TATA Engineering and Locomotive Company (TELCO), breaking significant gender barriers in India's tech industry. 🔸 The book reveals how Murthy was initially mistaken for a cleaning lady at the Melbourne Airport due to her simple attire, leading to a thought-provoking discussion about appearances and prejudices. 🔸 As the chairperson of Infosys Foundation, the author has overseen the investment of over Rs. 2,500 crore in various programs ranging from education and healthcare to preservation of traditional arts. 🔸 The devadasi system, which features prominently in the book, was a historical practice in parts of India where young girls were "married" to temple deities and often exploited - a practice Murthy worked extensively to eradicate.