The Urge to Do More: Ratan Tata’s Views on Life, Separation, and 'Doing The Right Thing'

Ratan Tata, the esteemed industrialist and philanthropist, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 86 in a Mumbai hospital. Known for his significant contributions to the Tata Group and his philanthropic efforts, Tata left a lasting impact on India’s business landscape. He is remembered not just for his leadership but also for his commitment to social responsibility and community upliftment.

A Journey of Growth and Philanthropy

In a heartfelt 2020 Facebook post on "Humans of Bombay," Tata reflected on his retirement and what it meant for him. He stated, “I’m enjoying the separation from the company — I don’t look at newspapers and worry about the bad stuff anymore." This sentiment illustrates how Tata found peace in stepping away from the daily pressures of corporate life. He emphasized that retirement was not merely about leisure and relaxation but rather an opportunity to contribute more to society, saying, "It isn't about playing golf or lying on a beach."

Fundamental to the TATA DNA

Tata served as Chairman of Tata Sons from March 1991 to December 2012. During his tenure, the company’s revenues grew to over $100 billion in 2011-12, a remarkable achievement that solidified Tata Group's position as one of India’s largest and most respected conglomerates. He shared insights into his journey, explaining that his focus was always on creating something larger than himself and giving back, which he considered fundamental to the TATA DNA. His visionary leadership transformed the Tata Group into a global powerhouse, with significant advancements in various sectors, including steel, automobiles, and information technology.

Reflecting on his experiences in Jamshedpur, Tata noted, “We realised that while our workers were thriving, the surrounding villages were still suffering. It became our goal to uplift their quality of life as well.” His commitment to social responsibility extended beyond mere corporate philanthropy; it was a deeply ingrained part of the Tata ethos. He was actively involved in initiatives addressing education, healthcare, and rural development, making him one of India’s most generous philanthropists. His philanthropic efforts were particularly prominent during natural calamities, the Covid-19 pandemic, and terror attacks, as well as in support of educational and cultural institutions.

A Legacy of Continuous Learning

On his lifestyle, Tata mentioned that work became an integral part of his identity, stating, "I was either always at Bombay House or travelling," which influenced his personal relationships. Despite being deeply committed to his work, he acknowledged the sacrifices he made in his personal life. He admitted that he came close to marriage several times but couldn’t follow through, as it would have required significant adjustments from his partners. This honesty reflects the complexity of balancing personal desires with professional obligations.

As he looked forward to his post-retirement life, Tata expressed enthusiasm about contributing to the Tata Trusts. “From affordable cancer treatment to looking into making the lives in rural India easier — I’m looking forward to this chapter of making it happen at the Tata Trusts,” he said. He emphasized the importance of continuous learning, stating, “I feel like the ‘right advice’ changes over a period of time — but the one thing that remains unchanged is the desire to do the right thing.” This commitment to lifelong learning and ethical conduct is a hallmark of Tata’s legacy.

Ratan Tata's enduring legacy as a business leader and philanthropist will be remembered for his dedication to upliftment, innovation, and the well-being of communities across India. His contributions have not only transformed the corporate landscape but have also inspired countless individuals to engage in philanthropic efforts and make a positive impact on society.