Ratan Tata, my neighbour, embodied simplicity in a manner few could fathom, and very unlike many of his contemporaries. While helming one of India’s largest conglomerates, he lived humbly in a four-bedroom house—just a study, drawing room, and separate quarters for the household help. His Man Friday’s family lived under the same roof, with their children often dining at the same table as Mr Tata. Despite his stature, luxury seemed a
distant concept, except for a modest swimming pool he built for his beloved dogs, Tito and Tango. His daily ritual of walking them to the United Services Club and returning home for their 7:30pm dinner symbolised his deep commitments, not just to his profession, but to his companions.
What truly defined Mr Tata was his humility. He made his own calls, drove himself, and treated everyone with genuine respect. Once, when speaking to my uncle who worked with the Tatas, his domestic help answered the phone and asked who was calling. Mr Tata, ever unassuming, simply replied, “Tell him it’s Ratan Tata.” The awe that followed, with the servant proudly sharing, “I spoke with Tata Sa’ab,” was priceless. His kindness extended far beyond mere gestures. He hosted a Ganapati Pooja for his caretaker’s family, inviting all the compound staff to join in the Aarti and distributing prasad to everyone.
While standing by the porch waiting for his car, he would patiently oblige all who wanted selfies, showing no airs or pretence. On one occasion, when his watchman felt unwell, Mr Tata immediately summoned an ambulance and personally ensured his safe passage to the hospital. Tragically, the watchman passed away, and Mr Tata attended his funeral, a testament to the respect and care he extended to everyone around him. Although my neighbour for many years, I had limited interaction with Mr Tata. But whenever I did see or meet him, what stood out was this: in a world where stature often equates to detachment, Ratan Tata stood out, not for his power, but for his quiet dignity and grace. India’s ‘Ratan’ may be hard to bid farewell to, but is legacy of kindness will shine forever. God bless
his soul!
