Last night, the nation was struck by the sudden news of the passing of one of India’s most beloved business magnates, Ratan Tata. Now when I look back, I realise that his legacy extends far beyond his corporate achievements. Maybe that’s why this loss feels personal to me and to many others. Mr. Tata was known for his humility, kindness, and extraordinary leadership.
Born into the renowned Tata family, he joined the Tata Group in 1962 and became its chairman from 1991 to 2012. He was also the recipient of the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honor. Under his leadership, the group expanded globally, acquiring iconic brands like Jaguar Land Rover and Tetley Tea. But despite these remarkable business accomplishments, Ratan Tata will be remembered most for his unwavering commitment to ethics, humility, and his lifelong dedication to making the world a better place for everyone.
On that note, let’s take a look at what made the man a legend and an extraordinary human being.
1. His Healthcare Initiatives
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ratan Tata stepped forward to donate ₹1,500 crore for the country’s relief efforts, focusing on equipping healthcare workers with resources and supporting vaccine development. That’s not it! Tata Memorial Hospital, one of India’s foremost cancer research centers, has benefited immensely from his personal and corporate donations. Moreover, he championed affordable healthcare solutions, such as providing safe drinking water and tackling malnutrition in rural areas.
2. A Man Who Thought About The Ordinaries
One of his key achievements was the Tata Nano which he designed as an affordable car for the Indian middle class. While it may not have achieved commercial success, it stood as a symbol of innovation that aimed at societal good. Talking about the car, Tata once said, “What really motivated me, and sparked a desire to produce such a vehicle, was constantly seeing Indian families on scooters, maybe the child sandwiched between the mother and father, riding to wherever they were going, often on slippery roads. One of the benefits of being in the School of Architecture, it had taught me to doodle when I was free. At first we were trying to figure out how to make two wheelers safer, the doodles became four wheels, no windows, no doors, just a basic dune buggy. But I finally decided it should be a car. The Nano, was always meant for all our people,”
3. A leader who stood by his employees
In 2008, when Mumbai was devastated by the horrific terror attacks, Ratan Tata personally oversaw the reopening of the iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, a Tata enterprise. Tragically, 33 people lost their lives at the hotel, including 11 of its employees. In the aftermath, Mr Tata ensured that all those affected—employees, guests, and the families of the victims—received both financial and emotional support. The Tata Group formed The Taj Public Service Welfare Trust (TPSWT) to provide assistance to those impacted by the tragedy. According to reports, Mr Tata even personally visited the homes of the victims, ensuring they were well cared for.
4. A True Dog Lover
Not just humans, Mr Tata had a special place in his heart for the animals as well. In 2018, he was supposed to receive a lifetime achievement award for his philanthropic work from King Charles III (then Prince Charles) at Buckingham Palace. However, at the last moment, he had to cancel his plans. The reason? Well, his beloved dog was gravely ill. Indian businessman Suhel Seth once shared the sweet story by saying he was surprised to receive multiple missed calls from Tata. When they finally connected, he said, “Tango and Tito, his dogs, one of them had fallen ill. I can’t leave him and come.” When Prince Charles came to know about this, he said, “That’s a man. That’s the man Ratan is. That’s why the house of Tata is what it is. That’s why it’s on a stable course.”
There are few industrialists who manage to blur the line between privilege and humanity, and Ratan Tata was certainly one of them. As I write this, I feel a deep sense of sadness, as though I am mourning someone who was personally close to me. Perhaps that’s the magic of his legacy—his good work and inspiring presence touched so many, even those who never had the chance to meet him. Rest in peace, sir.
Featured Image: Instagram
