Ratan Tata: The People’s Bharat Ratna

By Suresh Srivastava* 

With a heavy heart, India bids farewell to Ratan Naval Tata (1937 – 2024), a towering figure in business, philanthropy, and humanitarian service, whose contributions to society transcended the realm of industry. Although officially, Bharat Ratna, the nation’s highest civilian honour, was not conferred upon him, in a collective voice, everyone recognised him as a people’s Bharat Ratna—a title bestowed out of love, respect, and gratitude for his unwavering dedication to India’s progress.

Born on December 28, 1937, into the legendary Tata family, Ratan Tata took on the mantle of corporate leadership as Chairman of Tata Sons in 1991. Under his stewardship, the Tata Group expanded its horizons and transformed into a global powerhouse, acquiring prestigious international brands like Jaguar Land Rover and Tetley Tea, while also expanding India’s presence in steel, telecommunications, and technology.

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However, it was never just about business but he believed in business with a soul, and his mission was not just to grow the company but to make a positive impact on the world. His charitable contributions to healthcare, education, rural development, and technology, uplifted millions of lives. His efforts to provide affordable transportation to the common man with the Tata Nano, though met with challenges, exemplified his commitment to addressing the needs of the Indian populace.

India will forever be indebted to Ratan Tata’s contributions in the field of healthcare, education, and numerous other social causes that touched the lives of billions. He championed the cause of cancer care, continued to support premier institutions like the Tata Memorial Hospital, and funded scholarships and research at institutions like Harvard University, Cornell, and the Indian Institute of Science. His philanthropic work extended beyond borders, demonstrating that his compassion knew no limits.

His life echoed the selflessness of his predecessor, the late JRD. Tata, whose legacy in nation-building Ratan inherited. Together, their contributions helped lay the foundation for a modern, self-reliant, and prosperous India.

Despite his immense wealth and influence, Ratan Tata remained a man of unparalleled humility, eschewing political power and accolades. Perhaps this is why political parties shied away from suggesting the Bharat Ratna for him, fearing criticism of being too “pro-capitalist.” But in the people’s hearts, Ratan Tata’s generosity, vision, and moral compass made him deserving of India’s highest civilian honour, even without official recognition.

Ratan Tata’s legacy will endure through the countless institutions he built, the lives he touched, and the values he upheld. His passing marks the end of an era, but his contributions to India’s growth and well-being will never be forgotten.

India salutes Ratan Tata—its true Bharat Ratna—a visionary, humanitarian, and servant of the nation. His work will continue to inspire generations, reminding us all that wealth is not measured by money alone, but by the good that one can do for others.

Ratan Tata will always live in the hearts of the billions of people in India and across the world. His light will shine forever.

*Secretary General, Indian Federation of United Nations Associations (IFUNA) – the only body to represent India in the UN Forums and enjoys ‘Special Consultative Status’ with the ECOSOC of the United Nations.