The tycoon with a heart of gold: Ratan Tata¡¯s 8 most touching acts of kindness and humility proved that he is a true gentleman
Ratan Tata, an awardee of the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, is a name synonymous with business success, philanthropy, and humanity. His legacy is built not only on his remarkable business acumen but also on his qualities of kindness and empathy. Ratan Tata is a true gentleman, and his life is a testament to the values he holds dearly. This 86-year-old business tycoon has shown time and again that he is much more than an industrialist, offering valuable life lessons that inspire us to be better human beings. Here are some touching instances that prove Ratan Tata's true gentlemanly nature.
Humility in the Face of Criticism
One of the most touching instances of Ratan Tata's humility is when he responded to a comment on his Instagram post. After reaching one million followers, he posted a heartfelt thank-you note. Among the comments, a follower called him "Chhotu," which means "small" in Hindi. The comment drew criticism from others who found it disrespectful. However, Ratan Tata defended the follower, appreciating her heartfelt note and asking others to treat her with respect. His response demonstrated his humility and ability to rise above petty criticisms, truly embodying the spirit of a gentleman.
Ratan Tata's Kindness to Stray Dogs at Taj Hotel Mumbai
A heartwarming picture of a stray dog peacefully sleeping at the entrance of the Taj Mahal Hotel in Mumbai has gone viral. The image was initially shared on LinkedIn by Rubi Khan, an employee of the hotel.
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Rubi Khan discovered that Ratan Tata had given strict instructions to treat stray dogs well if they entered the hotel premises. She shared her experience in a LinkedIn post, expressing surprise at seeing the dog so comfortable at the luxurious hotel.
Her post, highlighting Ratan Tata's compassion, received over 8,000 likes on LinkedIn.
Ratan Tata, a known animal lover and advocate for animal rights, has also ensured that the Tata Group headquarters in Mumbai, known as Bombay House, has a dedicated section for the care of stray dogs in the area.
Working as an Employee in His Own Company
Despite being offered a high-paying job at IBM, Ratan Tata chose to work as an employee in his own company, Tata Steel, during its struggling days in Jamshedpur. This decision was driven by his desire to gain hands-on experience and understand the business from the ground up. Ratan Tata's willingness to work alongside his employees, regardless of his position, showcases his dedication and commitment to the growth of his company and his humility as a leader.
Advocating for Employees During the Pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ratan Tata strongly urged companies not to lay off employees. In an interview with Your Story, he criticized companies for their knee-jerk reaction to the pandemic and highlighted that laying off staff was not a solution. He expressed hope that companies would learn from this experience and handle future crises more thoughtfully, ensuring the well-being of their employees. Ratan Tata's advocacy for employees during such challenging times underscores his compassionate leadership and concern for people's livelihoods.
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Sitting Next to His Driver
Ratan Tata is known for his humility and down-to-earth nature. He often sits next to his driver, enjoying the ride without any airs of superiority. On occasions when his driver is unavailable, Ratan Tata himself takes the wheel. This simple yet profound gesture reflects his respect for every individual, regardless of their role, and his belief in equality and humility.
Promoting the Welfare of Abandoned Pets
A well-known dog lover, Ratan Tata often uses his influence to promote the welfare of abandoned pets. He once posted pictures of an abandoned dog on his Instagram, requesting his followers to help find it a home. By setting such an example, Ratan Tata encourages others to show kindness towards animals. His actions reflect his compassionate nature and his commitment to making the world a better place for all living beings.
Supporting Families Affected by the 26/11 Attack
Ratan Tata's compassion was evident when he personally visited the families of 80 employees affected by the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. The Tata Group not only supported these families but also covered the education expenses of their children. Ratan Tata's efforts to provide emotional and financial support during such a difficult time highlight his deep sense of responsibility and empathy.
Kneeling for a Photograph
In 2012, during an induction event for new joiners at the TAS leadership program, Ratan Tata surprised everyone by kneeling down for a group photograph with the front row. His witty remark, "Please be quick. I can't kneel down for that long," added a touch of humour to the moment. This act of humility and approachability left a lasting impression, reinforcing his image as a leader who values and respects everyone.
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Ratan Tata may not be the richest man, but he is undoubtedly one of the greatest, winning hearts with his actions. His humility, kindness, and empathy make him a true gentleman. Ratan Tata has shown that being on the Forbes list does not define a person's richness; their actions do. Through these instances, Ratan Tata has proven time and again that true greatness lies in the simplicity and humanity one exhibits.
