The Supremacy of Love and Trust Over Material Gains, In Sudha Murthy’s “House of Cards”

The subjects covered in this research paper include the manner in which one's behaviour can be influenced by money. It examines the falseness and deception of those who are wealthy, illustrating their true nature through real situations. The plot of the novel “House of Cards” written by prolific writer Sudha Murthy, revolves around Mridula, a village girl who marries a doctor, Sanjay. It explores the meaning of marriage and delves into the depths of corruption while also illustrating the differences in lifestyles between the two parties involved. After they're married, their financial situation doesn't improve much, as they go through ups and downs. Mrs. Mridula is based in Bangalore while her husband is pursuing his post-graduate degree. Their marriage appears to be quite stable at this point, as Sanjay starts a nursing home with his friend Alex. It quickly gains popularity and profits. Money brings with it the ability to exert power and possess greed, as seen in this family's transition to a luxurious home with numerous cars and maids for assistance. "House of Cards" explores topics such as wealth, inequality, poverty, and corruption in India through its storyline. It sheds light on how those who deserve seats the most are not getting them and on how fake and superficial the lives of the rich are. The paper illustrates the necessity of trust, honesty and compassion for a relationship to thrive, as well as how money can break a family and a marriage apart

her time at the college, she won a gold medal for her outstanding academic performance. Following her undergraduate studies, Sudha Murthy decided to pursue higher education in the field of computer science. She earned a Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) degree from the prestigious Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore, where she once again received a gold medal for her exceptional academic achievements.
Sudha Murthy's career began at India's largest auto manufacturer, TATA Engineering and Locomotive Company (TELCO), where she became the first female engineer to be employed by the company. Her hiring marked a significant milestone in breaking gender barriers within the engineering sector. Her technical expertise and professional experience in the engineering field laid the foundation for her future endeavours in the IT industry. In 1996, Sudha Murthy established the Infosys Foundation, a public charitable trust committed to improving the education and healthcare systems for underprivileged communities in India. As the chairperson of the foundation, Sudha has played an instrumental role in implementing various initiatives aimed at social welfare and development. Sudha Murthy is also an active member of the Gates Foundation, where she contributes to public health care initiatives. Her efforts to revolutionize the education system in India have been particularly noteworthy, as she has supported the integration of computer technology in educational institutions across Karnataka.
Sudha Murthy is a prolific writer, having authored numerous novels, non-fiction works, travelogues, technical books, and memoirs. Her literary works primarily focus on themes such as family, marriage, social issues, and personal experiences. Sudha initially began writing in Kannada, her native language, but later expanded her repertoire to include English as well. Her books have been translated into all major Indian languages and have garnered widespread acclaim from readers and critics alike. In addition to her literary pursuits, Sudha is also a columnist for English and Kannada newspapers.
Sudha Murthy, is known for crafting engaging novels that convey powerful messages. In her novel "House of Cards," Sudha Murthy explores the complex dynamics of love, trust, and materialism in the lives of an Indian couple, Mridula and Sanjay. Through a captivating narrative and realistic portrayal of characters, the author sheds light on the supremacy of love and trust over material gains in sustaining a healthy and fulfilling relationship. This story highlights the transformation individuals undergo when exposed to wealth and power, and the importance of standing up for one's beliefs.
Sudha Murthy's "House of Cards" is a realistic portrayal of the lives of an Indian couple, Mridula and Sanjay, as they navigate the challenges and temptations of materialism. The author employs a simple and engaging narrative style to draw readers into the story, allowing them to relate to the characters and their experiences. The characters in "House of Cards" are well-developed and relatable, reflecting the real-life struggles and emotions of people in similar situations. Mridula and Sanjay, along with the supporting characters, undergo significant changes as they confront the challenges posed by materialism and its impact on their relationships.
House of Cards by Sudha Murthy is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of human relationships, the corrupting influence of money, and the power of resilience. Mridula's character is a testament to the strength and determination of Indian women, and her journey serves as an inspiration for readers to stand up for their beliefs and values. While the story may have benefitted from a deeper exploration of the relationship between Mridula and Sanjay, as well as a more empowering ending, the novel remains a must-read for those seeking a captivating and insightful story that reflects the realities of modern Indian society.
Sudha Murthy's House of Cards is a compelling novel that delves into the transformation of its characters as they navigate through life's challenges. One of the central figures in the story is Sanjay, a character who undergoes significant change as the plot unfolds. This in-depth analysis of Sanjay's character explores his personality traits, relationships, and actions, revealing the intricacies of Indian literature and the themes present in Murthy's work.

Mridula: A Representation of Strong Indian Women
Mridula, hailing from rural Karnataka, is depicted as an intelligent, beautiful, and independent woman. As an educator, she stands firm in her ideals and is a relatable character to many Indian women. Her unwavering support for her husband, Sanjay, and her determination to uphold her beliefs form the backbone of the story.
Mridula marries Sanjay, a charming and caring physician. Their love story, though brief, is captivating and sets the stage for the unfolding events. As their lives progress, however, Sanjay's success changes him, and he begins to undervalue Mridula's role in his life. This shift in their relationship is a significant aspect of the novel, as it showcases the impact of wealth and power on personal connections.
As Sanjay's medical practice flourishes, his obsession with money grows. He becomes a man who believes that "Money is Power," and this mindset permeates every aspect of his life, from his relationship with his wife to his parenting style. His son, Sishir, follows in his footsteps, becoming a spoiled, extravagant young man who idolizes his father and disregards his mother's contributions. Several secondary characters in House of Cards also exhibit a preoccupation with money and status. Sanjay's mother and sister, Laxmi, are both fixated on material possessions and social standing. In contrast, Mridula's parents are depicted as kind-hearted and supportive, always ready to help their daughter when she needs them. Furthermore, Neha, a friend of Sishir, plays a brief but crucial role in the story as she shares Mridula's values and sheds light on the importance of genuine relationships.

The Evolution of Mridula's Character
Throughout the novel, Mridula faces numerous challenges and undergoes significant changes as a result. Despite her husband's growing indifference, she remains steadfast in her convictions and continues to prioritize her family's well-being.

Mridula's Struggle with Mental Health
When Mridula discovers that her husband has been unfaithful and deceitful, she is devastated. Her trust in Sanjay is shattered, and she spirals into depression. This part of the story provides a raw and honest look at the impact of betrayal on one's mental health. Mridula eventually seeks professional help from a psychiatrist to overcome her emotional turmoil. As she begins to heal, she gains a deeper understanding of the root cause of her unhappiness and makes the bold decision to leave her husband and return to her village.

Mridula's Impact on the Lives of Other Characters
Mridula's departure from her family serves as a wake-up call for both Sanjay and Sishir. Sishir, who is living in England, comes to appreciate his mother's worth and pleads with his father to bring her back. Surprisingly, Sanjay also realizes the void left by Mridula's absence, and the story concludes with him seeking her out in her village.

Sanjay's Personality Traits: From Idealistic to Materialistic
At the beginning of House of Cards, Sanjay is portrayed as a compassionate and ambitious doctor, dedicated to his profession and his patients. His genuine concern for others and his desire to make a difference in the world make him an endearing character. However, as the story progresses, Sanjay's personality undergoes a drastic transformation.
As his career takes off and he becomes a successful, renowned gynaecologist, Sanjay's priorities shift. He becomes increasingly obsessed with wealth and status, allowing money to dictate his actions and decisions. This newfound materialism corrupts his once noble character, and he becomes a shadow of his former self.
Sanjay's metamorphosis has profound effects on his relationships with those around him, particularly his wife Mridula and their son Sishir. Initially, Sanjay and Mridula share a loving and supportive partnership, but as Sanjay becomes more money-driven, he begins to dismiss and belittle Mridula.
Mridula, a strong and independent woman, finds herself relegated to the role of a submissive wife and an undervalued mother. Sanjay's transformation also impacts their son Sishir, who grows up idolizing his father and adopting his materialistic values. Consequently, Sishir becomes a spoiled and reckless young man, disregarding the guidance and wisdom of his mother.
Sanjay's actions, driven by his lust for wealth, create a rift within his family. Mridula discovers that Sanjay has been dishonest with her, earning black money and using it to fund a lavish lifestyle for his sister Laxmi. This betrayal shatters Mridula's trust in her husband, and she spirals into depression. As Mridula seeks help and begins to rebuild her life, she comes to the realization that she must distance herself from Sanjay and his corrupting influence. She leaves him and returns to her village, hoping to find solace and healing away from the toxic environment of their marriage.

The Turning Point: Reflection and Redemption
As Sanjay's world crumbles around him, he is forced to confront the consequences of his actions. Separated from Mridula, both he and Sishir begin to recognize the value of her presence in their lives. Sishir, who has been studying in England, gains a new appreciation for his mother and urges his father to make amends. Sanjay, too, starts to feel the weight of his choices and the emptiness that his pursuit of wealth has brought to his life. In a moment of self-reflection, he realizes the damage he has caused. The novel concludes with Sanjay arriving at Mridula's village, seeking forgiveness and looking to rebuild their relationship. Although the ending is not explicitly clear, it suggests the possibility of reconciliation and growth for both characters, as they learn from their experiences and strive to make better choices moving forward.

Themes Explored through Sanjay's Character
Sanjay's character arc in House of Cards serves to illustrate several key themes present in Indian literature and society. These themes include the impact of money on personal values, the importance of trust and honesty in relationships, and the consequences of corruption.

Money and Personal Values
Sanjay's transformation from an idealistic doctor to a money-driven individual highlights the corrupting influence of wealth. As he becomes more successful and affluent, his values shift, and he loses sight of the principles that once guided his actions. This theme serves as a cautionary tale, warning readers of the potential dangers of prioritizing material success over personal integrity.

Trust and Honesty in Relationships
Sanjay's betrayal of Mridula's trust serves as a catalyst for the disintegration of their marriage. House of Cards underscores the importance of trust, honesty, and open communication in maintaining healthy relationships. As Sanjay's deception is revealed, the consequences are far-reaching and devastating, demonstrating the fragility of trust and the damage that dishonesty can inflict on a partnership.

The Consequences of Corruption
Sanjay's involvement in corruption and his pursuit of black money have significant repercussions, not only for his family but also for society as a whole. House of Cards highlights the pervasive issue of corruption in India and the detrimental effects it can have on individuals and communities.

The Complexity of Sanjay's Character
Sanjay's character in Sudha Murthy's House of Cards serves as a window into the intricacies of Indian society and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals as they grapple with issues of wealth, power, and personal values. His journey from an idealistic doctor to a materialistic, corrupted individual offers readers a thought-provoking exploration of human nature and the potential for redemption.
As the novel concludes, Sanjay's character arc leaves readers with a sense of hope, suggesting that it is never too late to recognize one's mistakes and strive for personal growth and improvement. By examining Sanjay's character in House of Cards, we gain valuable insights into the power of literature to shed light on the complexities of human experience and the challenges inherent in navigating the everevolving landscape of modern society.

Themes Explored in House of Cards
House of Cards delves into several themes prevalent in Indian society, such as corruption, the superficiality of the wealthy, and the importance of trust, honesty, and compassion in relationships. Additionally, the novel highlights the destructive potential of money on families and marriages.

The Impact of Materialism on Relationships
In "House of Cards," Sudha Murthy delves into the impact of materialism on relationships. The character of Sanjay, Mridula's husband, undergoes a transformation as he becomes more consumed by his ambition and the pursuit of wealth. His priorities shift, and he begins to prioritize material possessions over his relationship with Mridula. This shift in focus leads to a breakdown in trust and communication, ultimately driving a wedge between the couple. Murthy's portrayal of Sanjay's character serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of prioritizing material wealth over the well-being of relationships Throughout "House of Cards," Sudha Murthy emphasizes the importance of values in today's materialistic world. Mridula's character is rooted in virtues and ethics, which often clash with the prevailing materialistic mindset. Murthy highlights the contrast between Mridula's idealism and the materialistic values embraced by others. The novel serves as a reminder of the significance of values such as honesty, integrity, and compassion, even in a society driven by material wealth. .

Sacrifice and the Struggle for Personal Fulfillment
Another significant theme in "House of Cards" is the concept of sacrifice and the struggle for personal fulfilment. Mridula, the protagonist, embodies the selflessness and sacrifice often expected of women in traditional roles. However, as the story unfolds, Mridula begins to question her role and the sacrifices she has made for her husband and family. She realizes the importance of personal fulfilment and takes a stand for herself, challenging societal norms and redefining her identity. Murthy's exploration of sacrifice and personal fulfilment highlights the need for individuals to prioritize their own happiness and well-being.

The Significance of Family and Relationships
Family and relationships play a crucial role in "House of Cards." Murthy explores the dynamics within a family and the impact of materialism on these relationships. The breakdown of trust between Mridula and Sanjay reflects the strain placed on relationships when materialistic desires take precedence. The novel also emphasizes the importance of support and understanding within a family, as Mridula's son, Sishir, becomes a source of strength and wisdom for his father. Murthy's portrayal of family relationships underscores the need for open communication, empathy, and shared values.

Money: The Magnifying Glass
In "House of Cards," money serves as a magnifying glass, revealing the true nature of the characters and their relationships. As Mridula and Sanjay accumulate wealth, their inner desires and values come to the forefront, testing their love and trust for each other.

The Impact of Corruption
Through Mridula and Sanjay's experiences, Sudha Murthy illustrates the pervasive nature of corruption in Indian society. The novel portrays how deserving individuals are often denied opportunities due to a lack of financial resources, while the affluent continue to thrive by exploiting the system.

The Superficial Nature of Wealth
The novel highlights how the pursuit of material gains can have a profound impact on relationships. As Sanjay becomes more focused on accumulating wealth and status, he distances himself from his love and trust for Mridula. This shift in priorities ultimately leads to the fragmentation of their bond and the erosion of their once-strong connection.
Sudha Murthy effectively showcases the shallow, artificial nature of the lives led by the wealthy. The novel serves as a reminder that material possessions and social status do not guarantee happiness or fulfilment.

The Importance of Trust and Compassion in Relationships
House of Cards emphasizes the necessity of trust, honesty, and empathy in maintaining healthy relationships. Mridula's unwavering belief in these values is a testament to her strength of character and serves as a guiding light for other characters in the story.