Ratan Tata: A Corporate Titan and Secular Living Saint Who Shaped India's Economy

Ratan Naval Tata, a prominent figure in the business world, passed away at 86 in a Mumbai hospital. Despite his vast influence, he never appeared on billionaire lists. He managed over 30 companies operating in more than 100 countries across six continents. Known for his integrity and simplicity, Tata was revered as a corporate leader with a saintly reputation.

Tata's journey began after earning a B.S. in architecture from Cornell University in 1962. He started on the shop floor of the family firm, gaining experience across various Tata Group businesses. By 1971, he was director in charge of National Radio and Electronics Co. A decade later, he became chairman of Tata Industries and took over as chairman of the Tata Group in 1991 from his uncle JRD Tata.

Global Expansion and Acquisitions

Under his leadership, the Tata Group transformed into a global powerhouse. The group expanded aggressively, acquiring Tetley Tea for USD 431.3 million in 2000 and Daewoo Motors' truck operations for USD 102 million in 2004. In 2007, they acquired Corus Group for USD 11.3 billion and Jaguar Land Rover for USD 2.3 billion from Ford Motor Company.

Tata's philanthropic efforts were notable too. His involvement began in the 1970s with The Aga Khan Hospital and Medical College project. After becoming chairman of Tata Sons in 1991, he steered Tata Trusts towards addressing social needs, establishing institutes like the Tata Institute of Social Sciences and funding educational initiatives across India.

Philanthropy and Controversies

Despite his achievements, Tata faced controversies. Although not directly implicated, he was linked to the 2008 telecom licence scam through leaked phone calls with lobbyist Nira Radia. In December 2012, he handed over control of Tata Sons to Cyrus Mistry but returned briefly as interim chairman after Mistry's ouster in October 2016.

After retiring again in January 2017 when Natarajan Chandrasekaran became chairman, Tata focused on supporting young entrepreneurs. Through RNT Capital Advisors and personally, he invested in over 30 start-ups like Ola Electric, Paytm, Snapdeal, Lenskart, and Zivame.

Tata's love for animals was evident when he allowed stray dogs shelter at the conglomerate's HQ during a monsoon evening. Though some dogs stayed permanently, their benefactor is now gone. His legacy continues through his contributions to business and society, leaving an indelible mark on India's corporate landscape.