The passing of an individual to feel like a personal loss to a country of one and a half billion people is a testament to the impact that person had on the lives of ordinary individuals. In India, especially, this phenomenon is common for film stars, cricketers, or politicians; however, a public outpouring of such grief over the death of a businessman is rare, reflecting the genuine affection people held for him—both for who he was and what he contributed.
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Not being an avid follower of business news, I never knew much about Ratan Tata, the businessman—well! Apart from, of course, his groundbreaking ‘people-first’ approach, exemplified by the Tata Nano, and his remarkable comeback triumph over Ford with the acquisition of the British marquee brands Range Rover and Jaguar. Thus, my admiration for him goes beyond his business acumen and perhaps even his philanthropy. When I learned of his demise, it was the memories of what I had known of him as a person that resonated with me most.
One memory that stands out is the manner in which such a towering figure defended a young girl for posting a disrespectful comment about Mr. Tata online, where she referred to him as a "chotu," meaning "little boy" in Hindi. Any other person with a quarter of Mr. Tata's stature would have responded with disrespect or retaliation; a kinder person might have chosen to be indifferent at best. However, I cannot imagine anyone reacting in a way that turned the whole situation around, making the girl feel as though she had done nothing wrong at all. He righted her perceived wrong in a situation where he himself was being insulted. He responded with grace, stating, “There’s a child in each one of us; please treat the young lady with respect,” despite the barrage of insulting comments from netizens.
Another poignant moment that highlights his character occurred when Mr. Tata opted out of a prestigious ceremony hosted by Prince Charles at Buckingham Palace to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award for his philanthropic efforts. Instead of attending the event organized solely for his own honour by British royalty, he chose to stay by the side of his sick pet dog, illustrating the priorities that truly defined him.
These actions are not just fleeting anecdotes nor isolated incidents few and far between; they represent the core of Ratan Tata's essence and are emblematic of who he truly was. His compassion for others—especially towards those who lacked a voice and couldn’t stand up for themselves—was the foundation of his identity. Whether it was defending a young girl from online ridicule or prioritizing the well-being of a beloved pet, he consistently showcased a deep respect for life in all its forms. Ratan Tata believed in lifting others up, an ethos that resonated throughout his life's work and was evident in both his professional endeavors and personal conduct.
As we reflect on his life and legacy, it becomes clear that his kindness and generosity will serve as a guiding light for many like me. His unwavering commitment to “people over profit” will continue to inspire future generations to care for one another, ensuring that his influence remains in the hearts of those fortunate enough to know him, even if only through his actions.
(All thoughts and views expressed are the author’s own.)