Top Five lesser known facts about Ratan Tata

Ratan Tata, the visionary leader of the Tata Group, left an indelible mark not only on the business world but also on the hearts of those who interacted with him. His humility, sense of humour, and unique personality often shone through in the most unexpected ways. As we reflect on his passing, these anecdotes offer a glimpse into the man behind the empire, revealing facets of his character that made him both admired and beloved.

1. Breaking the Norms of Hierarchy

Ratan Tata’s casual approach to hierarchy is one of the most endearing traits recalled by those who met him. Columnist Rajiv Kumar shared an insightful story from 2012 about two chance encounters with Tata, a decade apart. On both occasions, whether at the Maharaja Lounge at Indira Gandhi Airport or during a business community event in Mumbai, Tata nonchalantly slipped into the seat next to Kumar without any fanfare. This lack of pomp and protocol, according to Kumar, likely stemmed from his close connections with workers on the Tata Steel shop floor, a testament to his grounded nature despite leading one of the largest industrial empires.

2. Among India’s 50 Most Influential

Ratan Tata's influence extended beyond boardrooms and corporate settings, commanding the attention of both governments and business leaders worldwide. In March 2003, he was featured in India Today’s first edition of India’s 50 Powerful Individuals, not for his wealth but for his unmatched influence. His garage housed an eclectic mix of cars, including a canary yellow Tata Nano parked beside a Ferrari and a Lamborghini. Yet, despite these luxury options, Tata was often spotted driving to work in the modest Tata Indica—a fitting symbol of his balanced approach to life, where power and simplicity coexisted effortlessly.

3. Leading with Impact

Tata’s leadership extended to the global stage, particularly in the United Kingdom. In 2012, as an advisor to then-UK Prime Minister David Cameron, Tata became the largest employer in the UK’s manufacturing sector. It was also the year he broke a long-standing British tradition by requiring managers of Jaguar Land Rover to work on a bank holiday—a move that made headlines after he publicly criticized the English work ethic. Despite his retirement in 2012, Tata’s vigour and love for life persisted. In 2013, he purchased a Jaguar XFR sports saloon post-retirement, revealing that he still enjoyed the thrill of fast cars, and as he put it, the vehicle "drives brilliantly."

Also Read: Why did Ratan Tata not marry, who was his ex-girlfriend?

4. Hot Wheels and High Skies

While Ratan Tata's garage may have held some impressive automobiles, it was in the skies where he truly felt at home. As a licensed pilot, Tata’s love for aviation was well-known. His preferred mode of transport was the Falcon 2000 business jet, and in 2005 alone, he logged over 100 hours flying his beloved Falcons. Whether piloting McDonnell Douglas helicopters or co-piloting Boeing’s F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter plane at Aero India 2011, Tata’s passion for flying never waned. Yet, on the ground, he was just as content being the front passenger in his Mercedes, occasionally seen driving a Tata Indica or his favourite metallic blue Maserati.

5. Playful Spirit

Ratan Tata had a playful side, often surprising those around him. He was known to pull practical pranks on fellow directors during meetings, showing that even in the boardroom, he could lighten the mood. At times, he would sketch caricatures of his colleagues and present them with his signature—a delightful reminder of his artistic flair. Tata’s idea of time off involved escaping to cities like New York or São Paulo, where he would enjoy the freedom of anonymity. Media attention often embarrassed him, and his off-duty style reflected his casual, understated nature—he was typically seen in Armai vests, casual shirts, and khakis.

As we mourn his loss, these memories remind us that Ratan Tata’s legacy is not just about his industrial achievements but about the humility, humour, and warmth with which he led his life. His ability to remain grounded, even as one of the most influential figures in the global business community, speaks volumes about the man he was. Whether sketching a caricature, driving his Jaguar post-retirement, or slipping into an empty seat next to a stranger, Tata’s human side always shone through. And it’s this very humanity that will continue to inspire generations to come.

Also Read: Ratan Tata Family Tree: Know everything about this legendary business family