Ratan Tata’s public persona has undergone a remarkable transformation over the years. Once recognized as a sharp-witted industrialist deftly navigating high-stakes corporate battles and global acquisitions, Tata has recently revealed a more personal side—one that few had previously glimpsed. This shift became especially pronounced in October 2019 when Tata surprised many by joining Instagram. In his inaugural post, he quipped, “I don’t know about breaking the internet, but I am so excited to join you,” marking the beginning of a new chapter in his engagement with the world.

A Personal Touch on Social Media

Just three days later, his second post resonated on a deeply personal level, featuring a heartfelt tribute to his late dog, Tito, on what would have been the dog’s 14th birthday. This post went viral, attracting millions of followers who connected with a previously unseen aspect of Tata’s character. His Instagram feed quickly became a canvas for sharing nostalgic photos, cherished memories from the Tata Group’s illustrious history, and countless images of dogs—highlighting a softer side that contrasted sharply with his corporate image.

The Choice of Instagram

This newfound presence raised an intriguing question: why would a corporate titan of Tata’s stature embrace Instagram? Unlike many contemporaries who engage in public debates on platforms like Twitter, Tata’s choice of Instagram provided a space for non-confrontational communication. His posts exuded a casual charm reminiscent of a beloved elder imparting wisdom to a new generation, in stark contrast to the polished, distant persona he had maintained for decades.

Navigating Challenges in Leadership

Yet beneath this social media evolution lies a more complex narrative. Unlike many of his peers in India’s business world, Tata lacked a tightly-knit family network within the industry. His ascent within the Tata Group was fraught with challenges; professional relationships sometimes became contentious, as exemplified by the widely publicized Niira Radia episode.

In this demanding environment, dogs became a steadfast source of comfort for Tata. Bombay House, the headquarters of the Tata Group, became renowned for its welcoming attitude towards stray dogs, even after significant renovations. Tata ensured these animals had a space of their own—an act of kindness that may seem out of place for a corporate office but perfectly aligned with a man who cherished the companionship of animals.

Leadership and Transformation

Tata’s sense of distance may have been shaped by the challenges he faced upon assuming leadership of the Tata Group. When he took charge in 1991, he inherited a conglomerate fraught with internal power struggles. His predecessor, J.R.D. Tata, had left behind a legacy marked by strong-willed executives who commanded significant authority over their domains. Ratan Tata was forced to navigate high-profile clashes, including one with Russi Mody, the formidable head of TISCO, who openly defied his authority. This dispute even captured the attention of then-Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao, underscoring the stakes involved.

These early battles instilled in Ratan Tata the importance of maintaining a measured distance. He learned to trust but always from afar, keeping personal connections at arm’s length while reshaping the Tata Group. Under his leadership, the group’s portfolio began to evolve significantly; for instance, the sale of Tata Oil Mills in 1993 marked a decisive departure from tradition. Critics initially viewed this move as a misstep but ultimately allowed Tata to concentrate on global ambitions.

Major Achievements

The launch of the Tata Indica in 1998 and high-profile acquisitions like Jaguar Land Rover transformed the company’s image internationally, creating distance from J.R.D.’s era. Even as Tata achieved global success, he faced intense scrutiny during the tumultuous departure of Cyrus Mistry as chairman of Tata Sons. The fallout from this decision strained relationships with the Mistry family—significant shareholders in the Tata Group—highlighting the personal costs associated with leadership.

A New Narrative on Social Media

During this period, Tata’s Instagram presence began to weave a different narrative—one far removed from corporate intrigue. Whether it was a strategic decision or a personal choice, this new approach allowed Ratan Tata to forge direct connections with younger audiences. Within this social media space, dogs once again emerged as central themes that bridged his public life and more intimate moments.

In his later years, this passion for animals manifested in more concrete ways. Tata funded a state-of-the-art small animal hospital in Mumbai through Tata Trusts, contributing over ₹165 crore. Opened in 2023, this facility stands as a testament to Ratan Tata’s quieter side—one that found fulfillment not just in steering a business empire but in simple acts of care and compassion.

Conclusion

Ratan Tata will always be remembered as the leader who guided the Tata Group through times of significant change. However, beyond headlines and boardroom dynamics lies an intimate story—a narrative of a man who balanced the weight of leadership with moments of connection through engaging interactions on social media and enduring bonds with animals he cherished. This multifaceted legacy reflects not only his business acumen but also his capacity for empathy and community engagement, leaving an indelible mark on both corporate India and society at large.

Ratan Tata’s Leadership and Legacy

Ratan Tata succeeded JRD Tata as Chairman of Tata Sons in March 1991 and served until December 2012, overseeing a transformative period that spanned over two decades. Under his stewardship, Tata Sons, the principal investment holding company and promoter of Tata companies, played a vital role in the growth and success of the conglomerate. Currently, these six Tata companies collectively represent about 10% of the Nifty50 index, with a combined market capitalization nearing ₹28 lakh crore.

In the wake of Ratan Tata’s passing on October 9, the business community reflects on his profound legacy in wealth creation. Under his leadership, the Tata Group established a remarkable reputation for generating significant returns, with six of its companies—Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Tata Steel, Tata Motors, Titan Company, Tata Consumer Products, and Trent—achieving returns of up to 1,500% over the past five years. These companies are also key constituents of India’s Nifty50 index, which tracks the top 50 companies in the country.

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)

As India’s largest IT company and the second-largest by market capitalization at ₹15.45 lakh crore, TCS has been a leading wealth creator. Since its listing in 2004, TCS has gained over 115% in the last five years, alongside a 12% increase in 2024 alone. The company is a major contributor to Indian exports and has consistently rewarded its shareholders with dividends. Analysts maintain a positive outlook, with Antique Stock Broking assigning a ‘hold’ rating and a target price of ₹4,450, while Sharekhan recommends a ‘buy’ with a target price of ₹5,230. TCS is expected to report moderate revenue growth, impacted by performance in retail and consumer packaged goods.

Tata Motors

The homegrown automotive giant has experienced remarkable growth, with a nearly 700% increase in stock value over the last five years. Ratan Tata began his career with Tata Motors and played a crucial role in launching landmark projects such as the Indica, India’s first fully indigenous car, and the Nano, known for its affordability. Currently, Tata Motors has a market capitalization exceeding ₹3.45 lakh crore, with analysts from Emkay Global Financial Services and Motilal Oswal projecting target prices of ₹1,175 and ₹990 respectively.

Tata Steel

Originally known as Tisco, Tata Steel has surged close to 350% in the past five years and boasts a market capitalization of around ₹2 lakh crore. Ratan Tata joined the company as a technical officer in 1965, and the stock has grown nearly tenfold over the last two decades. Analysts maintain a favorable outlook, with Elara Capital recommending an ‘accumulate’ rating and a target price of ₹171.

Titan Company

Titan has also been a standout performer with a remarkable 180% increase in stock value over the past five years and an impressive 700% growth over two decades. Titan’s current market capitalization is approximately ₹3 lakh crore. Analysts view Titan positively, with Antique Stock Broking targeting ₹4,485 and Morgan Stanley upgrading its rating with a target price of ₹3,570.

Tata Consumer Products

This company has delivered an impressive 310% return over the past five years and an extraordinary 5,000% return since 2004, with a market capitalization of ₹1.1 lakh crore. The brand’s strong performance reflects its strategic positioning within India’s fast-moving consumer goods sector.

Trent

Trent stands out as the top performer over the last five years, skyrocketing nearly 1,500%, with a remarkable 27,000% increase over the past two decades. Its current valuation stands at around ₹2.9 lakh crore. Recent coverage by Citi has given Trent a ‘buy’ rating with a target price of ₹9,250.

Conclusion

Overall, Ratan Tata’s leadership has left an indelible mark on the Tata Group, fostering innovation and robust growth that continues to benefit investors and the economy alike. The impressive returns generated by these six companies underscore Tata’s commitment to sustainable business practices and long-term value creation. As they navigate future challenges and opportunities, these firms remain pivotal players in India’s economic landscape.

Ratan Tata, the revered former chairman of Tata Sons, passed away on October 9, 2024, at the age of 86. His death signifies the conclusion of an influential era for both the Tata Group and the Indian business landscape as a whole.

A Legacy of Transformation

Born on December 28, 1937, in Navsari, Gujarat, Ratan Tata was the great-grandson of Jamsetji Tata, the founder of the Tata Group. He assumed leadership as chairman in 1991 during a critical period of economic liberalization in India. Under his stewardship, the Tata Group diversified into various sectors such as IT, steel, automobiles, and hospitality. One of his notable achievements was the launch of the Tata Nano in 2008, which aimed to provide affordable transportation to millions.

Tata’s strategic vision led to significant global acquisitions, including Jaguar Land Rover and Tetley Tea, transforming the Tata Group into a $100 billion conglomerate by 2012. His tenure saw over 60 acquisitions that expanded the group’s international footprint and solidified its place on the global stage.

Philanthropic Endeavors

Beyond his business prowess, Ratan Tata was deeply committed to philanthropy through the Tata Trusts. His contributions significantly impacted healthcare, education, and rural development initiatives across India. His dedication to social causes earned him prestigious accolades such as the Padma Bhushan in 2000 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2004.

Tata championed entrepreneurship by investing in startups and fostering innovation through initiatives like Tata Capital and Tata Start-up Hub. Reports suggest he donated around 60-65% of his income to charitable causes, underscoring his commitment to societal betterment.

Tributes and Mourning

The announcement of Ratan Tata’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from leaders across various sectors. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described him as “a visionary business leader” whose contributions were “immeasurable.” Mukesh Ambani and Sundar Pichai also expressed their condolences, emphasizing Tata’s role in elevating India’s presence on the global stage.

The Chief Minister of Maharashtra announced that Tata would receive a state funeral in recognition of his invaluable contributions to Indian society and industry. Social media platforms were flooded with tributes under hashtags like #RatanTata and #EndOfAnEra, reflecting the profound impact he had on countless lives.

Conclusion

Ratan Tata’s death is not merely a loss for his family and friends; it represents a significant loss for a nation that viewed him as a guiding light in both business and philanthropy. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations as they navigate the complexities of industry and social responsibility. Ratan Tata may be gone, but his remarkable life and contributions will be remembered for years to come.

As India mourns this great leader, it is vital to reflect on his enduring impact—one that transcended corporate boundaries and touched lives across various sectors. Ratan Tata leaves behind a legacy characterized by integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to upliftment.