Ratan Tata: Celebrating the Titan

December 28 is 87th birth anniversary of Ratan Tata

Many hearts were heavy on October 9, 2024, when Ratan Tata departed for his heavenly abode. The void he left may never be filled, as the world and India lost an extraordinary personality, one born once in several generations.

Today, December 28, would have marked his 87^th birthday. As we reflect on his life and achievements, many find solace in the values he instilled within the Tata group: integrity, excellence, and unity. Colleagues and associates from various walks of life share stories of his humility and warmth, revealing a man who was as approachable as he was visionary. The world knows him as the titan of Indian business who made the Tata Group a globally admired brand. It remembers him – and affectionately so – for his quiet demeanour, steely resolve, and unswerving adherence to justness. The man who made a foray into the future, to many, Mr Ratan Tata represented hope that dreams can come true even if they seem to be ahead of time.

He made the world reimagine the meaning of capitalism and wealth. He was a testament that compassion and humility are virtues worth preserving even in a cut-throat world. When modern capitalism sometimes garners the reputation of following the easy route, he remains an icon of ethical conduct, never preferring expediency to righteousness – a true embodiment of Tata values. Under his stewardship, the Tata Code of Conduct was created over 25 years ago. Tata Steel, like all Tata companies, lives by the document.

Mr Tata guided Tata Steel through both difficult and transformative times. It was his ambitious vision that took Tata Steel from being an Indian steel manufacturer to a global metals & mining player through acquisitions in Southeast Asia and Europe. In 2004, he laid the foundation for the company’s expansion in India by signing the memorandum of understanding with the Government of Odisha – the state which would fulfil Tata Steel’s growth aspirations in the coming years. Tata Steel employees remember him with deep respect and recollect the unflinching trust he placed in his executives, never belittling anyone and never showing signs of irritation or impatience. He was a guiding light to countless individuals, inspiring them with his unwavering commitment to the betterment of humanity.

For Indians, he was a nation-builder who prioritised the nation before business interests and was the torchbearer of corporate philanthropy as a force for good. He won people’s hearts when he got perturbed to see a family of four getting drenched in the rain on a two-wheeler and conceptualised a people’s car. Standing outside the Taj Hotel during the 26/11 terrorist attacks – concerned yet composed – he became a symbol of resilience and compassion. Be it business or social causes, at the heart of his every decision and action were people, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to always doing the right thing.

That’s why the loss was personal, even for an ordinary individual who may or may not be associated with the Tata group. It was evident from the swarm of people who patiently waited in long queues to pay their last respects outside the National Centre of Performing Arts, which was co-founded by JRD Tata. Few industrialists have ever received so much love and admiration as was bequeathed to Mr Tata by people from all walks of life.

Tata Steel proudly commemorates the birth anniversary of this beloved and virtuous leader, recognising the profound impact he made on the organisation and society as a whole. In honouring his memory, it reaffirms its commitment to upholding his cherished values. This celebration serves not only as a tribute to his legacy but as an inspiration to current and future generations to carry forward his ideals and work collectively toward creating a better, more equitable world.