This is not TATA to him…where is the question of a good bye!

Mr. Ratan Tata, global icon and India’s pride, passed away on October 9th, 2024.

I had the privilege of meeting Mr. Tata on six occasions … ‘six,’ I say, because when you meet such legends, you remember each of those meetings. His warmth, humility, and razor-sharp intellect were immediately apparent, whether he was discussing business strategy or simply inquiring about one's family. These encounters taught me how true greatness lies in being both intelligent and genuinely kind.

How many forwards did you get about Ratan Tata in the last two days? Messages about his legacy, his businesses, his philanthropic efforts, and of course, his quotes (a few fake) have flooded every WhatsApp group. The one that stayed with me the most was:?“No one is saying a Rich Man passed away. Everyone is saying a Good Man passed away!"

My family's connection with him was special. He was very fond of my dad, Mr. Rajendra Darda. The Tata Energy team had come to meet my dad, who was then the Energy Minister. A few days later, the Tata team asked for my dad’s time as RNT was keen on meeting him.

That evening, RNT drove himself to our residence in his E-Class Mercedes. During their conversation, Mr. Tata mentioned that his team had briefed him about how my dad understood the subject thoroughly, going into every detail. This left a strong impression on me about the value of deep expertise and preparedness. He made me realize that true leaders respect those who take the time to master their craft.

This personal connection extended to his attendance at both my wedding in 2003 and my brother's wedding in 2008 in Aurangabad.

During the weddings, several chartered flights descended on Aurangabad, but Mr. Tata flew his own aircraft, showcasing his passion for aviation.?Isn’t it cool that a person at his stature would still find time for his passion!?Aurangabad had?a small parking bay,?so naturally,?aircrafts had to circle in the air. Mr. Tata even asserted to the ATC that protocol dictated he be given preference as he was piloting himself.?

?His impact on business and society was profound. I recall his speech at the Lokmat Business Icons?in?Aurangabad event on July 3, 2012. In just ten minutes, he delivered a message so powerful and comprehensive that every subject he touched remained etched in the audience's memory.?

?His words were few but powerful, and his ability to connect with everyone was remarkable.?

?During that visit, he came home for high tea. He understood the effort our family put into planning this meal and relished everything that was prepared. True to his nature, he ensured he met every staff member in our household, embodying his belief in the dignity of every individual.?

Isnt?leadership is not just about leading from the front but about respecting every individual along the way.?You've likely seen hundreds of people posting photos with him—that’s how accessible he was, always moving without a security detail.?Humility is the true marker of greatness, no matter how high you rise in life.

?A lot of leaders focus on their legacy?and not so much of the company.?Mr. Tata said something interesting after acquiring Jaguar and Land Rover:?"The benefits will only be seen after a few years."?He was correct—during a conversation with a senior member at Tata Motors, they mentioned that the?design and?quality improvement in Tata cars was largely due to expertise gained from JLR.?Quite a foresight!

Ratan Tata's legacy extends far beyond the boardroom. His philanthropic efforts, his ethical leadership, his humility, his integrity, and, most importantly, his love for India, have touched millions.?

Today, as I frequently interact with Mr. N. Chandrasekaran, I see the same values—the same DNA that Ratan Tata instilled in the Tata Group. This continuity is what has made the Tata Group a beacon of corporate excellence and social responsibility.

?To the younger generation of professionals and entrepreneurs: Let Ratan Tata's life be an inspiration. Strive not just for personal success but for the betterment of society. He showed us that true leadership is about lifting others as you rise.

?So this is not TATA to him…where is the question of a good bye! A life so well doesn’t end. It simply transforms. Into Legends! There will always be Ratan Tata!!!

?Rishi Darda,

Editorial Director – Lokmat Media

@RishiDarda

?

?