On October 9, 2024, the world lost one of its most influential business leaders and philanthropists—Ratan Tata. The 86-year-old Chairman Emeritus of Tata Group left behind a legacy that reshaped not just Indian business but global industries. His passing marks the end of an era, but the values and practices he introduced will continue to influence generations.
Ratan Tata’s life and career were a testament to the power of leadership driven by humility, compassion, and integrity. From his early days as a young apprentice working alongside factory labourers to the time he transformed the Tata Group into a global business conglomerate, his journey was marked by dedication to both professional success and societal upliftment.
Although his name was synonymous with success, his absence from global billionaire rankings was a reflection of his belief that wealth should serve society rather than personal interests. Through the Tata Trusts, the philanthropic arm of the Tata Group, Ratan Tata ensured that much of the group’s profits were directed towards improving the lives of the less fortunate.
As we look back on Ratan Tata’s life, it becomes evident that his influence went beyond business. His genuine compassion for animals, his ethical leadership, and his commitment to philanthropy were values that guided every decision he made. From the boardroom to the streets of Mumbai, where he opened doors to stray dogs at the Tata Group headquarters, Ratan Tata’s life reflected an unwavering commitment to a better world.
Humble Beginnings and the Foundation of Tata Values
Ratan Tata was born into one of India’s most respected business families, but his early life was far from the opulent upbringing one might expect. He was raised by his grandmother, who played a crucial role in shaping his values of humility and empathy. These values stayed with him throughout his life, shaping his approach to both business and personal interactions.
Though initially aspiring to become an architect, Tata’s career took a different turn when he returned to India at his grandmother’s request to join the family business. Before stepping into the leadership role, he worked as an apprentice at Tata Steel, where he spent time working on the factory floor. This hands-on experience allowed him to connect with employees at every level of the organisation, and it instilled in him a deep respect for the workforce, a sentiment he carried throughout his career.
Taking Over the Tata Group
In 1991, Ratan Tata took over the leadership of the Tata Group, a conglomerate that was already a major player in Indian industry. However, the year marked a significant turning point for both the company and the country. India was undergoing economic reforms that opened its markets to global competition. These changes created opportunities for Indian businesses to expand internationally, and Ratan Tata seized this moment.
Under his leadership, Tata Group expanded its operations globally, acquiring renowned brands like Jaguar, Land Rover, and Tetley Tea. He transformed the group from a primarily India-focused entity into a global powerhouse, with operations in over 100 countries. This expansion diversified Tata Group’s portfolio, which ranged from steel and automobiles to telecommunications and software.
Despite the massive growth, Ratan Tata remained true to the group’s core principles, particularly the focus on ethical business practices and philanthropy. His vision extended beyond financial success; he believed that a company’s true value lay in its contribution to society.
Philanthropy: The Heart of Tata’s Leadership
One of the defining features of Ratan Tata’s leadership was his commitment to philanthropy. While many business leaders focus solely on profit maximisation, Tata believed in reinvesting wealth into society. This approach was not new to the Tata family—Jamsetji Tata, the group’s founder, had already laid the foundation for this practice by donating much of the company’s profits to charitable causes.
Ratan Tata took this legacy forward by ensuring that two-thirds of the Tata Group’s equity was held by Tata Trusts, which used these funds for philanthropic activities. These efforts ranged from education and healthcare initiatives to rural development and social welfare programmes. Under his leadership, billions of dollars were channelled into projects that aimed to uplift marginalised communities and improve the quality of life for millions of people.
Tata’s belief in philanthropy was not just about writing cheques; it was about creating sustainable solutions to long-standing social issues. The Tata Trusts played a crucial role in establishing schools, universities, hospitals, and research institutions. Their work in areas like healthcare, particularly in rural India, provided critical services to those who needed them the most.
Compassion for Animals
Ratan Tata’s compassion extended beyond humans to animals as well. His love for dogs was well-known, and this affection translated into action in the corporate world. At Bombay House, the headquarters of Tata Group, stray dogs were allowed to roam freely, and a dedicated kennel was created for them. This gesture, though small in the grand scheme of his accomplishments, was a reflection of Tata’s deep empathy for all living beings.
Tata’s actions demonstrated that kindness should not be limited to humans. His decision to open the doors of a luxury hotel, the Taj Mahal Palace, to a stray dog is another example of his inclusive approach. These gestures, while simple, showed that even in the highest echelons of corporate power, compassion could have a place.
His commitment to animal welfare also extended to tangible contributions, including the establishment of a pet hospital in Mumbai. This facility provides healthcare services to stray animals, further highlighting Tata’s belief that businesses have a responsibility to contribute to the well-being of all creatures, not just humans.
Missing Awards for More Important Causes
Ratan Tata’s humility and prioritisation of personal values over public accolades were illustrated when he missed a prestigious award ceremony at Buckingham Palace to stay by his ailing dog’s side. The Lifetime Achievement Award, to be presented by Prince Charles, was an honour few would have skipped. However, Tata’s decision to be with his pet highlighted his belief that personal commitments sometimes outweigh public recognition.
This act of choosing a personal cause over an award perfectly encapsulated Ratan Tata’s character. For him, success was never about public acknowledgment or titles; it was about staying true to his principles and values.
A Legacy of Mentorship
In his later years, Ratan Tata became a mentor to countless young entrepreneurs. His openness to sharing knowledge and experience made him a respected figure not only in business circles but also in the startup community. Despite his towering success, Tata was always approachable, offering advice and guidance to those who sought it.
His mentorship was not just about business strategies but also about instilling the values of ethical leadership and responsibility. Tata consistently reminded young leaders that the purpose of business was not just to generate profit but to contribute to the greater good. His mentorship left an indelible mark on a new generation of business leaders, many of whom cite him as an inspiration for their own success.
Ratan Tata’s life and legacy extend far beyond his business achievements. While he led one of the largest business conglomerates in the world, his true success lay in his commitment to society, philanthropy, and ethical leadership. His absence from billionaire lists was not a reflection of his financial standing but a conscious choice to prioritise social impact over personal wealth.
As the world remembers Ratan Tata, it is not just his business acumen that will be celebrated. It is his compassion, humility, and dedication to making the world a better place. He demonstrated that true leadership is not about accumulating wealth but about using one’s influence and resources for the betterment of society.