"MUSIC Is An Integral Part Of MY LIFE, And I Cannot Imagine My Life Without It"

Prof. V. Kamakoti, the esteemed Director of IIT Madras and the visionary pioneer behind India's groundbreaking indigenous computer microprocessor 'Shakti,' graciously shares his extraordinary journey. From his deep commitment to education and innovation to his passion for music and rural education, Prof. Kamakoti offers insights and shares his experiences in conversation with Sudeshna Das, Consulting Editor of the EFY Group

- PROF. V. KAMAKOTI

“I was born in Chennai in 1968. My father, a professor of Sanskrit at the University of Madras, hailed from a family of academicians, while my mother was a homemaker. Both my paternal and maternal grandparents resided in villages. My father held a strong belief in the cultural richness of rural India, and as a result, he was determined that I spend my early years in the village rather than the city. This belief in the essence of Indian culture residing in rural areas significantly influenced my life’s journey and shaped my personality.” Prof. Kamakoti’s life story commences with this intriguing anecdote, a tale that profoundly impacted his path and character.

Nurturing roots and happiness

Prof. Kamakoti’s early childhood was primarily spent in the villages of Mudikondan and Vishnupuram, located in southern Tamil Nadu, where he resided with his grandparents. He gained firsthand knowledge of the challenges associated with farming and agricultural practices, gaining a deep understanding of the hardships of rural life. Moreover, he imbibed a valuable lesson about the importance of local flora and fauna.

“In our villages, farmers are regarded as the cornerstone of society, as they provide sustenance for everyone. If the farmers were to cease their food production, regardless of how much wealth one possesses, it would all become meaningless. This was one of the insightful lessons I learned during my formative years in the village. I believe that my father’s decision to immerse me in village life during my early years was a profound one.”