A man with a heart of gold, Ratan Tata, former chairman of Tata Sons, passed away recently
Many of us in the editorial fraternity were at a complete loss for words upon hearing of the passing of Ratan Tata, former chairman of Tata Sons, on the sorrowful night of October 9, 2024. He was 86 years old and had been dealing with health issues over the past few months. We didn’t know how to react! While the news may not be surprising given his declining health, it is indeed heartbreaking.
In an era where most industrialists were known for their lavish lifestyles and extravagant hobbies, Ratan Tata was seen as a beacon of compassion and ethical leadership. Known for his determination, innovation, and Indian values, he was not just a business tycoon but a man with a heart of gold.
An awardee of the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, Ratan Tata expanded, diversified, and modernized the Tata Group beyond its domestic footprint. Under his leadership, the conglomerate experienced significant growth and acquired companies such as Tetley Tea, the Corus Group (a British-Dutch steelmaker), and Jaguar and Land Rover from Ford. While his ambitious Tata Nano project aimed to create an affordable car priced at Rs 1 lakh may not have succeeded, it ignited the aspirations of many lower-middle-class people. It provided a blueprint for many automobile companies to launch affordable cars in the future.
Known as an animal lover, Ratan Tata demonstrated his commitment to this cause by dedicating a space in the Group’s head office for stray dogs. During COVID-19, when many companies were laying off staff to control costs, he was one of the few business leaders who openly criticized this approach, urging organizations to prioritize the well-being of their employees.
In conversations with senior leaders and employees from various Tata Group companies, I’ve only heard praise for Ratan Tata and his efforts to develop an employee-centric culture.
Such was the loyalty of Tata Group’s employees that in November 2008, when a group of ten terrorists from Pakistan attacked the Taj Hotel, run by Tata’s Indian Hotels, several employees sacrificed their lives to protect hotel guests, even when they had the option of escaping through secret doors. Ratan Tata also paid salaries and covered medical expenses for the employees who lost their lives or were injured, treating them as if they were still employed.
Even after retirement, he dedicated his time and wisdom to mentoring young talent and entrepreneurs, funding scholarships, and supporting educational institutions—efforts that have helped many rise and shine, contributing to India’s prosperity and growth. Many such stories genuinely define who he was and how he touched lives while remaining modest.
His passing has created an irreplaceable void that is particularly challenging to fill today. Among Indian industrialists who have made a significant impact without being boastful, he stands at the top.
Rest in peace, sir. You will be deeply missed.