Rishi Sunak, Akshata Murty return to Stanford after 19 years. Rohan Murty is moved: 'Full-circle'

Akshata Murty and Rishi Sunak on their graduation day at Stanford University in 2006 and (right) the former first couple and Rohan Murty at Stanford University for the recent event. (Image credit: Rohan Murty/LinkedIn)

As former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his wife, Akshata Murty, took the stage at Stanford University's Graduate School of Business (GSB), it was not only a special moment for the couple who were returning to their alma mater after almost two decades, but it was also important for Rohan Murty.

For Akshata's brother, it was a truly special, "full-circle moment." Rohan, son of Infosys co-founder NR Narayana Murthy, shared his strong connection to the day on LinkedIn, recalling how he'd seen his sister graduate from the very same MBA programme 19 years ago. He said that it was a great honour for them as Sunak and Murty were the first couple to give a commencement address at Stanford GSB.

"Nineteen years ago, I watched my sister graduate from Stanford’s MBA program. This year, I returned to the same ceremony — but with an incredible twist. My sister, Akshata Murty and her husband, former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, were the commencement speakers!" Rohan wrote. "It was an extraordinary honor, not just for them (as the first couple to give a GSB commencement address), but for Stanford GSB as well — Rishi is the first alum to be a G7 Prime Minister."

Rishi Sunak deliver the commencement address at Stanford University with wife and fellow alumnus Akshata Murty. (Image credit: Rohan Murty/LinkedIn)

Murty said the former UK first couple's "inspiring" speech touched on several key themes. They spoke about "the power of data," which was a clear nod to their father. They also discussed "the art of making dreams come true" and championed the principle of "dharma" – doing what's right, even if it's not easy or profitable.

He added that the couple's shared personal stories, including how they met at Stanford, lessons they've learned from each other, and how their GSB education helped shape the core values that have guided their lives.

Rohan Murty at the Stanford University programme with brother-in-law and former UK Pm Rishi SUnak and sister Akshata Murty. (Image credit: Rohan Murty/LinkedIn)

The entire audience, students and families alike, gave them a well-deserved standing ovation. Witnessing the incredible changes in my sister’s life over nearly two decades was truly moving," he said.

Rohan Murty even recalled his own "graduation" after 19 years, jokingly noting he traded his usual t-shirts for a proper dress shirt for the occasion.