Ratan Tata's last project, Small Animal Hospital in Mumbai, is a testament to the tycoon's heart of gold

Indian industrialist and philanthropist Ratan Tata, admired by millions, has sadly passed away at the age of 86 in Mumbai, prompting an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from around the world. Even in his last year of life, Tata’s dedication to making a difference never wavered. One of his last projects, the Small Animal Hospital in Mumbai (SAHM), is a testament to his enduring compassion and commitment to improving lives—both human and animal alike.

Ratan Tata's last project

The Tata Trusts Small Animal Hospital, spanning 98,000 square feet in Mahalaxmi, opened its doors in July 2024.?

Built at a cost of Rs 165 crore, it stands as one of the few 24x7 animal hospitals in India.?

This facility was a deeply personal project for Ratan Tata.?

His inspiration for the hospital came from his own challenges in finding advanced care for his beloved pet dog, who needed joint replacement surgery.?

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Tata had to fly his dog to the U.S., but by the time they arrived, it was too late, and the joint had to be frozen in place.?

"That experience enabled me to see what a world-class veterinary hospital was equipped to do," Tata had said, speaking to TOI.? ?

The hospital had been in the works for years, first announced in 2017 and initially planned for Kalamboli, Navi Mumbai.?

However, the project was relocated to Mahalaxmi after securing a 30-year lease from the BMC, making it more accessible due to its central location.

Ratan Tata's love for animals - A lookback through his posts

Ratan Tata’s love for dogs was well-known and often shared with the public.?

He frequently took to social media to express his affection for his pets - and dogs, in general.

In 2020, he posted heartwarming moments on Instagram with the adopted dogs of Bombay House, his office headquarters.?

A year later, in 2021, he shared a touching photo of a Taj Hotels employee shielding a dog from the rain with an umbrella, a gesture that deeply resonated with his followers.?

In 2023, Tata once again highlighted his compassion for animals, urging people to care for stray cats and dogs in yet another thoughtful post.

Ratan Tata’s deep love for dogs was just one of the many reasons people admired and loved him.?

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