After the death of Ratan Tata, the visionary former chairman of the Tata group, at the age of 86, Mumbai came to a complete standstill. For one of India’s most admired personalities, his funeral was attended by thousands of people, including politicians, celebrities and business leaders.
Maharashtra declared a state-wide day of mourning after military salutes were offered to Tata and his coffin, draped in the Indian flag and decorated with white flowers, for his last rites. To further remind us of Ratan Tata’s humble and kind nature, his beloved dog Goa was present.
Ratan Tata’s legacy has been cemented by humility, especially when coupled with his considerable contributions to business and philanthropy. He had a long history of supporting charitable causes, particularly those related to education, health and animal welfare.
He oversaw the growth of the Tata Group, an Indian conglomerate with annual sales of about $100 billion. By the time he took over in 1991, the company had become a major global player. Tetley T, Corus Steel and Jaguar Land Rover were among the risky acquisitions during his tenure. His all-encompassing vision made the Tatas famous even when some of its endeavors like the Nano Car faltered.
Joining the family business in 1962, Ratan Tata was born in 1937 to a Parsi family and attended Cornell University to study architecture and construction While working in the group companies as an assistant at Tata Industries he eventually succeeded his mentor JRD Tata in 1991. Evidently with a close relationship with JRD, he called him a brother and a father’s body
Ratan Tata was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian award in India, in 2008 in recognition of his tremendous achievements. Calling him a “visionary leader” and a “kind soul,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his appreciation.
Ratan Tata’s legacy extends beyond the boardroom. His generosity, professionalism and lasting impact in India and the world will live on in our memories. The principles of humility, integrity and service he stood for are powerfully brought to mind as he looks upon his’ later in his life.
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