When Just A Name is Enough: RATAN TATA

RATAN NAVAL TATA, a name that evokes humanity, empathy, kindness, genuineness, simplicity, intelligence, and integrity has left a legacy behind which is unmatched and unparalleled as he took his last breath on 9th october 2024. He was born on 28th December 1937, he served as the chairman of Tata Group and Tata Sons from 1991 to 2012. 

Ratan Tata ji was a global business figure and a very well known acclaimed philanthropist too. He spent his whole life in a very simple way but with a vision of developing education, healthcare, and financial stability of our nation with utmost integrity. His life journey is a beautiful lesson for every individual out there. So, let us learn some facts about Ratan Tata’s life : 

1. Ratan Tata was a Trained Pilot and an Architect Graduate :

He was a trained pilot and he was the first Indian to fly the F-16 Falcon, an American jet fighter plane. He was very passionate about flying and continued his hobby for a very long time. On the other hand he earned a degree in architecture from Cornell University where he developed a strong liking for design and creativity which he implemented over the years in his own firm. 

2. Ratan Tata first job was on the Factory Floor of the Tata Group :

Well, hard work pays off and that is what he always earned for himself. He did not get the throne just like that in a day or so. He worked hard in his own firm from the basics to understand the work culture and hardships of the people working for Tata Group. 

3. Ratan Tata Was criticized and questioned a lot in his early days as chairman of Tata Group :

His joining as chairman of the Tata Group in 1991 was not a cakewalk. Many members doubted his ability to handle the prestigious post at such a young age. Many people resisted his ideas of modernization and reorganizing the Tata Group. But with his determination and clear thought process he succeeded to achieve humongous success for the Tata Groups. 

4. Ratan Tata Saved the Tata Group from debacle in 2008 :

In 2008 during the global financial and economical crisis Ratan Tata’s vision and strategic leadership helped Tata Groups to navigate the crisis by making a bold and magnificent decision of acquiring the british brands like Jaguar and Land Rover. Later on these brands uplifted the Indian market value and stature to next level as well as opened gates for many brands to sweep in the Indian market diaspora. 

5. Ratan Tata Did not Accept Fiat Motors Seat:

Many people don’t know this fact that Ratan Tata was offered a position in the board members of the Fiat Motor Group, one of the largest automakers from Italy. This was considered to be a great opportunity by others but Ratan Tata ji declined the offer as he was focusing on developing and expanding the Indian brand of Tata motors at that time.

6. Ratan Tata Made Tata Tea the biggest Tea brand in the World :

When Tata Tea acquired Tetley Tea (UK brand) it became the largest brand in the world. But Ratan Tata ensured that the Tetley employees’ interest will be kept intact showing his ethical way of working under his leadership. 

7. Ratan Tata was a vivid animal lover :

Well his love for animals was so overwhelming that all his properties, offices, hotels, house, etc allows entry without any restrictions till date. Even during his last ritual ceremony his dog was seen beside him. He was associated with many animal welfare organizations and helped them immensely. 

8. A True Philanthropist :

Ratan Tata was a hardcore philanthropist as he immensely believed in giving back to his society and nation in true sense. You will be surprised to know that over 65% of the Tata Sons equity is held in various trusts that support education , healthcare, research, rural development, and many more causes. He also funded so many scholarships for students to study abroad.

9. Tata Nano, A personal dream for Ratan Tata :

Well Ratan Tata’s commitment for the common man was shown in Tata Nano as he truly felt that every Indian common man can’t afford a regular car. So, he wanted to make a car which every household can have although it was not very successful but it was an honest attempt for the Indian by the Indian. 

10. Ratan Tata was a bachelor :

Well just like his commitment for work, his loyalty and commitment in love was far more superior. According to the reports he loved a woman and when his relationship could not see marriage he decided not to marry till he was alive.

11. Ratan Tata was a recipient of many Honorary degrees and awards :

During his lifetime Ratan Tata received many awards and degrees for his unparalleled contribution towards nation and business development. Like Padma Vibhushan in 2008, Padma Bhushan in 2000, Honorary Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire 2014, Assam Baibhav in 2021, Order of Australia in 2023, Honorary Doctor of Business Administration by OHIO State University in 2001, IIT Bombay in 2008 presented Honorary Doctor of Science, to name a few. 

12. Ratan Tata was associated with various Board Memberships and affiliations:

Ratan Tata was an esteemed jury member of many boards during his lifetime like Cornell university, International advisory council at Bocconi University, In 2013 he was a board trustee of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, Jury panel of Pritzker Architecture Prize, and many more. 

Well Ratan Tata’s commitment for the common man was shown in Tata Nano as he truly felt that every Indian common man can’t afford a regular car. His life journey showed us that with dignity and humility one can reach the hearts of millions without compromising on any humane aspect of life. We salute such a legend and hope that we continue his good work as a token of love and respect towards him and our nation. 

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