Ratan Tata celebrates his 86th birthday: 10 fascinating facts about India's most beloved industrialist

Ratan Tata, widely regarded as one of India's most respected businessmen, will turn 86 today, on December 28, 2023.

Ratan Naval Tata, the Chairman of Tata Sons, is an iconic figure in the business world. He is widely celebrated for his visionary leadership and philanthropic endeavors. With an illustrious career spanning decades, Tata’s business acumen transformed the Tata Group into a global powerhouse. His commitment to ethical business practices and innovations has set a benchmark for corporate leaders worldwide. Beyond boardrooms, Tata’s benevolence shines through initiatives like the Tata Trusts, impacting diverse sectors from education to healthcare. Ratan Tata’s legacy extends beyond profits, encapsulating a legacy of integrity, compassion, and transformative leadership.

Here are 10 intriguing facts about Ratan Tata:

1. Born on 28 December 1937, in Mumbai to Naval Tata and Sooni Tata, Ratan Tata is the great-grandson of Jamsetji Tata, the founder of the Tata Group.
2. Following his parents’ separation in 1948, he was raised by his grandmother, Navajabai Tata.
3. Ratan Tata, despite nearing marriage on four occasions, remains unmarried.
4. While working in Los Angeles, he fell in love. However, due to the 1962 Indo-China War, the girl’s parents declined the idea of her moving to India.
5. Embarking on his career in 1961, Ratan Tata started from the ground up, managing operations on the shop floor of Tata Steel. This experience laid the foundation for his future leadership within the group.
6. During the liberalization of the Indian economy, he initiated the restructuring of the Tata Group. His pivotal role led to the business expansion of popular cars like the Tata Nano and Tata Indica.
7. Some of his notable acquisitions include Tata Tea acquiring Tetley, Tata Motors acquiring Jaguar Land Rover and Tata Steel acquiring Corus in 2004.
8. In 2009, he fulfilled his promise to make the world’s cheapest car accessible to the middle class. Priced at Rs. 1 lakh, the Tata Nano emerged as a symbol of innovation and affordability.
9. With over 12 million followers on social media platform X, Ratan Tata holds the title of the 'most followed entrepreneur’ in India.
10. Upholding the tradition from the time of Jamsetji Tata, Ratan Tata ensured that Bombay House, the Tata group’s headquarters, remained a haven for stray dogs. The recently renovated Bombay House includes a dedicated kennel with provisions for food, water, toys, and a play area, reflecting his compassion for animals.