Rama Krishan Sangem
“Compassionate capitalist’, ‘Capitalist in mind, compassionate at heart,” are words Infosys founder leader Narayana Murthy said while paying tributes to Ratan Tata who passed away October 9, Wednesday night in Mumbai. What was striking in the tributes paid by scores and scores of business tycoons to leaders from different walks of life is one thing – he created a 100 plus billions US dollar empire for Tatas, without earning the tag of billionaire for himself.
Media is full of laudatory homages to Ratan Naval Tata who endeared himself to different sections in India and abroad. Ratan Tata, the visionary industrialist who transformed Tata Group into a global powerhouse, passed away on Wednesday, leaving behind a monumental legacy that redefined India’s business landscape. His leadership not only built one of the world’s most valuable conglomerates but also set a benchmark for ethical leadership and philanthropy.
Despite leading a multi-billion-dollar empire, Tata was never featured on billionaire rankings. This absence reflects his humility and the distinctive structure of Tata Group, where much of the wealth is held by charitable trusts dedicated to social causes.
Dared to go global
Born into one of India’s most prestigious business families, Tata assumed leadership of Tata Group in 1991, a critical juncture in the nation’s economic history. Under his leadership, the conglomerate expanded its footprint globally, acquiring iconic brands such as Jaguar, Land Rover, and Tetley, while extending its presence to over 100 countries.
His strategic vision propelled the group into key sectors such as telecommunications, steel, and technology, securing its place among the world’s most prominent companies.
Values & Philanthropy at the heart
Despite Tata Group’s financial success, Ratan Tata remained absent from billionaire lists due to the group’s unique structure. A significant portion of the company’s wealth is held by Tata Trusts, which reinvest profits into community development initiatives such as education, healthcare, and rural empowerment. This arrangement ensured that the wealth generated by the conglomerate was directed toward social progress rather than personal enrichment.
Tata’s commitment to philanthropy was integral to his leadership philosophy. He consistently emphasised that the real measure of success lies in serving society. Through the Tata Trusts, which hold nearly two-thirds of the group’s equity, Tata oversaw the distribution of billions of dollars to uplift marginalised communities. From funding schools and universities to advancing healthcare programmes, his philanthropic efforts touched millions of lives, both in India and globally.
Known for his humility and approachability, Ratan Tata shunned the limelight, preferring to let the impact of Tata Group speak for itself. Unlike many business leaders who sought personal accolades, Tata remained focused on fostering ethical business practices and prioritising community welfare.