Stories behind Brands - TATA SUMO Honouring the Visionary

Do you know who this gentleman is? You actually know his initials; you have heard it so many times. To give you a hint, see if the words “Tata Sumo” ring a bell.

The Tata Sumo, a bull of a car, with its innovative design and adaptability, resonated wonderfully with the Indian market. Its introduction marked a new era for Tata Motors, solidifying its position as a manufacturer capable of delivering vehicles that met the diverse demands of Indian consumers. However, many people are unaware of the fascinating story behind the brand's name.

The story starts with Mr Sumant Moolgaonkar, born in 1907, in Mumbai (then Bombay) India. He completed his early education in Pune and then pursued a degree in mechanical engineering from the College of Engineering, Pune (COEP). He completed his honours degree from the Imperial College of London in the year 1929. Thereafter, he started working in C.P. cement works in 1930 and later joined Associate Cement Companies Limited in the year 1938.

He later joined the Tata Engineering and Locomotive Company(TELCO) now called Tata Motors Industries as Director in charge and later became Vice-Chairman, Managing Director, and Chairman of TELCO. His work was so seminal in the organisation that he is referred to as the architect of TELCO.

A very popular story of his meticulousness comes to mind at this juncture. All of Tata Motors' top executives used to eat lunch together every day, with the exception of Sumant, who would abruptly leave during lunch and return to work hours later.

One day, while out at lunchtime, they were shocked to see his car parked in front of a highway dhaba where he not only paid for the food but also kept himself occupied by chit-chatting with the truck drivers who were eating lunch there.

Moolgaokar did so as to understand the driver's perspective, sought and received valuable input from them regarding the on-ground problems and lacunae in their vehicles. Later, after he analysed the problems and thought out the possible solutions, he would inform the R&D and design teams at Tata about the changes and modifications that could be done.

Moolgaonkar's vision and strategic approach as instrumental in modernizing Tata Motors and expanding its product offerings. His efforts were particularly notable in the development of the Tata Sumo, a ground-breaking multi-purpose vehicle that catered to the diverse needs of Indian consumers. The introduction of the Tata Sumo marked a significant milestone in the company's journey and firmly established its presence in the Indian automotive market.

Sumant Moolgaonkar always stood out as a true trailblazer. He was a visionary leader and the driving force behind Tata Motors. His remarkable contributions not only transformed Tata Motors but also led to the creation of the iconic Tata Sumo.

As a testament to Sumant Moolgaonkar's outstanding contributions, Tata Motors took an extraordinary step to recognize his work at TELCO. In a fitting tribute, the company named this multi-purpose vehicle after him – the Tata Sumo. This gesture not only honoured Moolgaonkar's vision but also underscored his legacy as a driving force behind Tata Motors' resurgence.

He was awarded Sir Walters Puckey Prize in the year 1967 and was also a posthumous awardee of the?Padma Bhushan, which is the third-highest civilian honour by the?Government of India?in 1990.