Page 3 - SeniorsToday October

Publisher’s Note

The Simplicity and Grace of Ratan Tata:

A Neighbour’s Tribute

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

SENIORS TODAY | ISSUE #64 | OCTOBER 2024 3