Ratan Tata: A Life Beyond The Life Itself
With Ratan Tata’s demise, a chapter in Indian industry, philanthropy and leadership, more appropriately his style of leadership, comes to a close. Respected for his modesty, ethics and future oriented vision, Tata had background far more than just the position of the chairman of Tata Sons. Having born in the iconic Tata family, he not only got a business empire but also an ethical guideline and a responsibility towards society.
As his years in the company came to an end, Tata restructured the company into a global entity, and other acquisitions included Jaguar Land Rover and Corus Steel but was always ready to put back in all that society gave him. It was not purely about Income when he was describing his vision for the full-fledged Tata group; rather, it was positively transforming India and the entire world.
Tata was an unabashed supporter of innovation, leading efforts such as the Volvo bus projects where Indians would rely on Tata Nano car for their transport. He also took a deep interest in activities besides business and devoted funds this time for quality education and healthcare and rural development through Tata Trusts.
While we will never stop grieving for him, Ratan Tata’s life has taught me that true leadership does not lie in the pursuit of wealth or indulgence in power but the enduring legacies one leaves behind to mankind. His legacy will guide many future leaders to be compassionate, visionary and principled. He will be remembered, not only in the boardroom but in the minds of numerous people.
