The recent passing of Ratan Tata marks the end of an era for India and the world. His leadership not only transformed the Tata Group into a global conglomerate but also inspired countless individuals, including myself, to strive for excellence, compassion, and ethical conduct. For me, Ratan Tata was more than just a business magnate; he was a beacon of values that shaped my long-term career at Tata and inspired my journey as a marathon runner.
When I joined Tata, I was drawn by the organization’s legacy of trust, integrity, and innovation—the very principles instilled by Ratan Tata. He believed in building a corporation not just for profit but for the welfare of society, a philosophy that sets Tata apart from many business houses that prioritize family wealth over public good. Under his leadership, Tata expanded into industries as diverse as automobiles, steel, software, and airlines, yet the core remained the same: to serve the nation and its people.
What stood out to me was how Tata encouraged openness and trust. Unlike other corporate giants that kept power concentrated within family circles, Tata fostered a spirit of inclusiveness. This open-minded philosophy permeated every aspect of the organization, from decision-making to talent development. It is this trust and inclusiveness that fueled my passion to not only grow within the company but also contribute to its larger mission. Working at Tata has given me more than just professional opportunities—it has instilled in me a sense of purpose and commitment to the larger societal good.
Inspired by Ratan Tata’s philosophy of perseverance and giving back, and my role model N Chandrashekhar, I embraced the world of running. Starting with marathons, I soon found myself gravitating toward ultra-distance running, a pursuit that requires mental toughness, discipline, and unwavering commitment—the same qualities that Tata stood for. Tata’s sponsorship of major marathons, including the Mumbai Marathon, further inspired me. The company’s active role in promoting health, fitness, and community well-being through such events reflects the deep social consciousness that Ratan Tata championed throughout his life.
Running long distances has become more than just a sport for me—it’s a metaphor for the Tata Way. It’s about setting long-term goals, pushing through pain, and emerging stronger on the other side. Just as Ratan Tata envisioned long-term value for the Tata Group, I too have embraced a long-term vision for my career and personal growth, rooted in resilience and trust.
Ratan Tata’s most remarkable trait was his ability to prioritize the welfare of society over personal or corporate gain. His decisions were not driven by short-term profit but by the larger picture—how they would impact India and its people. Whether it was the acquisition of Indian Airlines to serve the nation’s aviation needs or the manufacturing of the Tata Nano to make cars affordable to millions, his vision was always focused on the greater good.
He understood that true leadership was about leaving a lasting legacy of trust, ethics, and responsibility. His business acumen was matched only by his philanthropy, with Tata Group’s charitable trusts playing a significant role in education, healthcare, and rural development across India. It is this philosophy that continues to inspire me every day as I navigate my professional and personal life. The “Tata Way” is more than a corporate strategy—it’s a way of life, one that encourages giving back, striving for excellence, and working towards a collective future.
A Lasting Legacy
Ratan Tata’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of entrepreneurs, business leaders, and everyday people like me. He taught us that success is not just about profits but about building something larger than oneself, about making a positive impact on society, and about doing it with integrity and humility.
In his memory, I remain committed to living by these values, in my career, my community, and my personal pursuits. Whether I’m at work, managing complex programs, or running my next ultra-marathon, Ratan Tata’s philosophy will continue to guide me—just as it has inspired millions of others.
His life was a testament to the fact that true greatness lies in what we give to the world, not what we take from it.
