Ratan Tata, the former chairman of the Tata Group, was not only known for his business acumen but also for his compassion and kindness towards his employees. His legacy goes far beyond the boardroom, with countless stories of his empathy and willingness to go the extra mile for those around him. One such incident from 2004 highlights his deep commitment to his staff.
In August 2004, Prakash M Telang, who was the Managing Director of Tata Motors at the time, suddenly fell ill in Pune. His condition was critical, and doctors advised that he be urgently flown to Mumbai for treatment. Unfortunately, it was a Sunday, and arranging an air ambulance was proving difficult.
Ratan Tata’s Quick Response
When the news of Telang’s health crisis reached Ratan Tata, he immediately offered to fly the company’s plane himself. Tata, who held a pilot’s license, was prepared to take charge of the situation and personally ensure Telang received the medical care he needed in Mumbai. However, just before Tata could take off, an air ambulance was arranged, and Telang was safely transported to Breach Candy Hospital. He received the necessary treatment and eventually made a full recovery. Telang went on to retire in 2012, having served Tata Motors for nearly five decades.
This selfless act underscores Ratan Tata’s dedication to his employees, no matter their position in the company. Whether it was a senior executive like Telang or a junior staff member, Ratan Tata always stood by his team, offering support in any way he could.
Ratan Tata: A Passionate Pilot
What many may not know about Ratan Tata is his lifelong passion for aviation. He was a trained pilot and even owned a Dassault Falcon 2000, a private jet valued at approximately Rs 150 crore. Tata’s love for flying was inherited from his mentor, JRD Tata, the country’s first licensed pilot, who also played a key role in starting Tata Airlines, later known as Air India.
In 2007, at the age of 69, Ratan Tata flew in an American F-16 fighter jet, making him the oldest Indian to do so. In 2011, he also took part in the Bengaluru Airshow, flying in Boeing’s F-18 Super Hornet. A photo of him sitting in the cockpit during this airshow went viral, showcasing his adventurous spirit even in his later years.
The Bharat Ratna Campaign for Ratan Tata
Given his immense contributions to India’s industry and society, there have been repeated calls for Ratan Tata to be awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor. A few years ago, a campaign on social media with the hashtag #BharatRatnaForRatanTata gained significant momentum. However, Tata, in his humble manner, requested people to stop the campaign, expressing that he was simply proud to be an Indian and that he did not seek any awards.
Despite his modesty, Ratan Tata has already been honored with two of India’s most prestigious awards: the Padma Bhushan in 2000 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2008. His legacy as a businessman, philanthropist, and human being will undoubtedly inspire generations to come.
