Ratan Tata Birth Anniversary: 10 Facts About India’s Most Beloved Industrialist: December 28 marks the birth anniversary of Ratan Tata, one of India’s most beloved and respected industrialists. Ratan Tata, who passed away at the age of 86 on October 9, 2024, in Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital, is remembered not only for his leadership of the Tata Group but also for his contributions to India’s industrial landscape and his philanthropic efforts. Here are 10 interesting facts about the life of Ratan Tata: What’s Shantanu Naidu up to after Ratan Tata’s death? Millennial manager shares an update
1) Responsible for Tata’s Huge Global Presence
Under Ratan Tata’s leadership, the Tata Group expanded its reach significantly, becoming a global conglomerate. By 2023-24, Tata Group was operating in over 100 countries and generating a remarkable $165 billion in revenue, establishing a strong global footprint across various sectors.
2) Famous Acquisitions
Ratan Tata is best known for his high-profile acquisitions, particularly in the automotive and steel sectors. In 2008, Tata Motors acquired the iconic luxury carmaker Jaguar Land Rover, and in 2007, Tata Steel acquired the British steel giant Corus, positioning Tata Steel as the world’s fifth-largest steel producer, despite some challenges from the deal.
3) Education
Ratan Tata studied architecture at Cornell University, graduating in 1962. Although his father wanted him to pursue mechanical engineering, Tata eventually followed his passion for architecture and design.
4) First Job
Ratan Tata’s first job was in Los Angeles, where he worked as an architect at the firm Jones & Emmons, which was renowned for its architectural designs. Despite his early career in architecture, he was called back to India by his grandmother, where he would later lead the Tata Group.
5) Childhood Troubles
Ratan Tata faced a difficult childhood when his parents, Naval and Sooni Tata, divorced when he was just 10 years old. Following this, he was raised by his grandmother, who played a pivotal role in his life.
6) Terror Attack
In 2008, during the horrific Mumbai terrorist attacks, Ratan Tata was heading the Tata Group when terrorists attacked the Taj Mahal Palace hotel, one of the group’s flagship properties. Tata played a critical role in overseeing the recovery and restoration of the hotel, which became a symbol of resilience.
7) Trained Pilot
Ratan Tata was also a trained pilot, earning his pilot’s license during his student days at Cornell in the 1960s. In 2007, he made headlines as the oldest Indian to fly the F-16 Falcon fighter jet at the age of 69, showcasing his adventurous spirit.
8) Reacquiring Air India
One of Ratan Tata’s final major achievements was the reacquisition of Air India in 2021, bringing the iconic airline back under the Tata Group’s ownership nearly 90 years after it had been nationalized. This was a significant moment for Tata and for the nation.
9) Philanthropy
Ratan Tata was deeply involved in philanthropic activities, often contributing large sums to charitable causes. The Tata Group’s organizational structure, which gives Tata Trusts a controlling stake in Tata Sons, ensures that much of the group’s wealth is used for social development and charitable endeavors.
10) Personal Life
Ratan Tata’s personal life remains equally intriguing. He never married and had no children, although he was once in a serious relationship with an American woman named Caroline Jones in the 1960s. Despite several close calls, Tata never settled down, citing personal fears and various reasons for not marrying. In a 2011 interview, he revealed, “I came close to getting married four times and each time I backed off in fear or for one reason or another.”
Ratan Tata’s legacy is not only defined by his business acumen but also by his humble approach, humanitarian efforts, and undying commitment to the Tata Group’s values. On this birth anniversary, we remember his contributions to India’s growth and the global stage.