- Every Indian while growing up would have heard the ubiquitous presence of two of the biggest, largest, and widely known business houses named Tata and Birla. It is no exaggeration to mention that Tatas enjoyed such omnipresence in the Indian context that it became a synonymous name associated with so many products right from everyday usage like salt to elite ones like high-end premium cars. Of course, Indians are cynical about every business conglomerate and big businessman building an empire that may not be based on accepted norms of ethics, integrity, honesty, and a general sense of goodwill associated with a clean image. Mind you, we Indians are not only emotional but also traditional in our thinking because of our rich heritage and legacy.
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- However, one business house that stood above the rest is none other than the Tata Group starting from the legendary JRD Tata who can be rightly termed as the doyen of Indian business leaders showing the way for others to emulate his rich legacy in diverse fields including the aviation industry. Following closely on the heels was Ratan Tata who further consolidated the Tata family’s reach wide and far in a spectacular fashion showcasing exemplary vision, mission, foresight, anticipation, and acumen in building one of the most respected business empires in the world. It can be safely mentioned that Ratan Tata is one of the most influential business magnates India has ever seen essaying a role that will remain ever etched.
- With the passing away of Chairman Emeritus Ratan Tata at the age of 86 years, curtains are finally drawn on a glorious career spanning several decades that saw the Tata Group reach unprecedented levels under his able guidance. Navigating the business house from $4bn revenue to over $100bn is the legacy that Ratan Tata be associated with forever marking a memorable growth story along the way. As you are aware, some of Tata Group’s major companies are Tata Steel, Tata Motors, Tata Consultancy Services, and Tata Communications. He is also credited with notable acquisitions starting from tea maker Tetley, Steelmaker Corus, and the landmark Jaguar Land Rover. These are some of the biggest acquisitions in the history of Indian business, no less.
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- However, the halo surrounding the gentleman for upholding ethical practice in business amid growing cynicism separates Ratan Tata from other businessmen. He was not only a very accomplished businessman but also known for showing extraordinary compassion, comprehension, humility, simplicity, pleasant disposition, and inbuilt capabilities to unearth hidden talents and groom them to realize their true potential. Such numerous stories abound. Plus, Ratan Tata never failed to evoke that sense of pride among present-day Indians about the group making it ever dearer to us even as the years rolled on. His passing away would certainly be termed the end of an era but it will continue to remain etched in our memories forever. Go in peace!
