What set him apart was his pioneering spirit and profound love for the country
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Ratan Tata with his adopted dogs at Bombay House, the Tata headquarters | Photo: Ratan TataтАЩs social media handle
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The passing of Ratan Tata marks the loss of not only an iconic leader but also a global visionary whose influence extended far beyond business. He was a unique figure, celebrated for his sharp business acumen paired with deep empathyтАФan extraordinary balance not easily achieved. I admired him greatly for that.
Leading a conglomerate valued at over $100 billion is no small feat, yet Ratan TataтАЩs personal passions never took a backseat. His dedication to solving global environmental challenges, mentoring future leaders, and caring for stray animals brought a deeply human dimension to his industrialist persona.
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What set him apart was his pioneering spirit and profound love for the country. Under his leadership, the Tata Group opened IndiaтАЩs doors to the world, igniting an era of economic progress. When Tata acquired some of the worldтАЩs most iconic luxury brands, it wasnтАЩt just about corporate growth тАФ it was a source of pride and inspiration for millions of Indians. He was a leader who not only built his empire but ensured that IndiaтАЩs growth was inextricably tied to it. Whether it was introducing IndiaтАЩs first indigenously designed and manufactured car or acquiring global brands like Tetley and Jaguar Land Rover, his vision helped put not just Tata but all Indian brands on the global map. These pioneering initiatives also generated millions of jobs and provided livelihoods for communities across the nation.
His insatiable hunger for learning was another trait that set him apart. With a degree in architecture and structural engineering, as well as a pilotтАЩs licence, Ratan TataтАЩs accomplishments went far beyond his role as the head of one of IndiaтАЩs most celebrated business conglomerates. He lived a full and multifaceted life, constantly seeking knowledge and new experiences.
I had the privilege of interacting with him during his tenure at the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), where he was instrumental in establishing the CII Environment Division as one of its founding donors. Ratan TataтАЩs commitment to the global climate crisis was evident; he was among the first leaders I know who personally authored a climate change policy for his company. This forward-thinking move led his entire organisation to formally measure its carbon footprint, setting a powerful example for the entire industry.
As industrialists, we have a unique opportunity to align with the nationтАЩs sustainability goals and show responsibility towards the planet. From localising supply chains to empowering small and medium-sized businesses to adopt greener practices, we have the expertise and resources to drive this change. Ratan Tata embraced this responsibility with unmatched passion. His love for people and the planet became ingrained in the Tata GroupтАЩs core values, and that is the legacy of a true visionary.
I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and colleagues. I hope they find strength in this difficult time, and I trust that his organisation will continue to uphold his values, carrying forward the remarkable legacy he built тАФ a legacy that will shape not just the future of the company, but the country and the planet for generations to come.
The writer is Managing Director and Chairman, Godrej Enterprises Group
Disclaimer: These are personal views of the writer. They do not necessarily reflect the opinion of www.business-standard.com or the Business Standard newspaper
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