“A heartfelt tribute to the late Ratan Tata from a humble admirer”

"In the past few decades, I have witnessed the passing of numerous politicians, actors, and other prominent figures in India. However, the tribute to Ratan Tata stands out as the most heartfelt and widespread across society. I believe there are compelling reasons for this."

The passing of Ratan Tata marks the end of a special time in India, a time shaped by honesty, strong leadership, and a deep commitment to serving society. Ratan Tata was not just a great business leader; he was a person who touched the lives of millions, both in India and around the world. His legacy is much more than his business success—it is a story of kindness, humility, and a strong desire to make the world a better place.

Ratan Tata was born on December 28, 1937, into one of India’s most respected business families. From a young age, he had the opportunity to live a life of ease, surrounded by wealth and privilege. However, instead of choosing a comfortable path, Ratan Tata decided to work hard, serve others, and help India grow. He believed in doing the right thing, even when it was difficult. His life shows us how dedication and strong values can create lasting change.

In 1991, Ratan Tata became the head of the Tata Group, one of India’s biggest and most important companies. It was a challenging time—India was opening its economy to the world, and the business environment was very competitive. Many people were unsure if Ratan Tata could lead the company as successfully as his predecessor, J.R.D. Tata. But he proved them wrong. Ratan Tata guided the Tata Group through these difficult times and helped the company thrive. Under his leadership, companies like Tata Motors, Tata Steel, and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) grew into global leaders.

One of the most remarkable things about Ratan Tata was his focus on ethics and integrity. He believed that businesses should not only make profits but also give back to society. This belief was reflected in the way the Tata Group operated under his guidance. The company became known for its fair treatment of employees, ethical business practices, and contributions to social causes. A large part of the profits from Tata companies went to support education, healthcare, rural development, and scientific research through the Tata Trusts. Ratan Tata's commitment to ethical practices, philanthropy, long-term thinking, and simplicity has made him akin to Warren Buffett.

Ratan Tata’s vision extended far beyond India. He helped turn the Tata Group into a global brand. His bold decisions, such as the purchase of Jaguar Land Rover by Tata Motors in 2008 and the acquisition of British steelmaker Corus by Tata Steel in 2007, showed his confidence in India’s ability to compete on the world stage. These moves helped make India’s business reputation stronger around the world.

Despite all his success, Ratan Tata was known for his simplicity and humility. He did not seek the spotlight or crave praise. He lived a modest life and preferred to let his actions speak for themselves. Whether he was talking to top executives or factory workers, he treated everyone with the same respect and dignity.

Ratan Tata was not just a businessman; he was a visionary and a generous philanthropist. His contributions to Indian society went far beyond the business world. Through the Tata Trusts, he helped improve access to education for thousands of children, brought healthcare to people in remote areas, and supported research that aimed to solve some of India’s biggest problems. His work showed that his heart was always with the people, especially those who were less fortunate.

Ratan Tata will always be remembered for his strong values, his wisdom, and his deep compassion for others. He believed in doing what was right, even when it was not easy. He was a leader who always thought about the bigger picture, focusing on the long-term well-being of the people and the country he served. His leadership was not just about growing the Tata Group but about creating a better, more inclusive world.

As we reflect on the life of Ratan Tata, we realize how much his influence will continue to shape the future of India and the world. His ideas, his teachings, and the values he stood for—honesty, kindness, and responsibility—will live on in the lives of the many people he inspired. The companies he built will continue to grow, and the social programs he supported will keep improving lives long after he is gone.

In this moment of sorrow, we celebrate the life of a man who gave so much to his country India and the world. As he famously said, "I don’t believe in taking right decisions. I take decisions and then make them right." This philosophy will continue to inspire future generations. Ratan Tata may no longer be with us, but his spirit will continue to guide us toward a better, more compassionate future.

May his soul rest in peace.

I am truly honored to be an alumnus of the Tata Energy Research Institute, a renowned organization affiliated with the prestigious Tata Group.