When JRD Tata Asked Ratan Tata to Lead

Ratan Tata, the esteemed chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, passed away late Wednesday night at the age of 86. He was receiving treatment at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai. In March 1991, Ratan Tata took the helm of the Tata Group from JRD Tata, marking a pivotal moment in the company's history. Reflecting on this significant transition, Ratan Tata shared the intimate details of their conversation regarding the takeover during an appearance on Rendezvous with Simi Garewal.

The change in leadership came after JRD Tata faced health challenges. Ratan Tata recounted, “We were in Jamshedpur for a function, and when I returned from Stuttgart, I learned he was hospitalized with a heart condition.” Ratan visited JRD daily at Breach Candy Hospital and was struck by JRD's decision to step down. “He said, ‘I need to step down and I have decided that you should take my place,’” Ratan recalled.

During the board meeting where Ratan was officially announced as the new chairman, JRD reminisced about his decades-long journey with Tata Group. Ratan noted the emotional weight of the moment, as JRD reflected on his experiences rather than seeking praise, creating a poignant atmosphere filled with history and nostalgia.

Tragically, just two years after this monumental handover, JRD Tata passed away in Geneva, Switzerland. Ratan Tata emphasized the deep bond they shared, forged through their mutual love for flying and shared visions for the company’s future. 

Ratan Tata stepped down from his role in 2012 at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy of growth and innovation within the Tata Group that began under JRD's influential leadership.