Ratan Naval Tata, the doyen of Indian industry, inheritor of one of the greatest corporate names in India passed away peacefully on October 9, and was laid to rest on Thursday. Even though he was 86 years old and had been suffering health issues for the past few years, his passing has been mourned across the board. But it is surprising just how much the general public in India has mourned his passing, especially in a country where capitalists are still not celebrated.
Ratan Tata’s immense contributions to philanthropy, his love of dogs including strays, have endeared him to Indians like few others have managed, with the possible exception of his uncle, JRD Tata, whom he succeeded as Chairman of Tata Sons. Following the horrendous 26/11 attacks when the flagship Taj Mahal hotel was desecrated by terrorists, he not only ensured that all employees who had lost their lives or loved ones did not lose hope and he paid compensation to all and he was determined that the hotel rise again to the top, which it has.