Remembering Ratan Tata, a Lion of Business and a Gift to Humanity

The world has lost a giant with the passing of Ratan Tata, a man whose impact on business and humanity cannot be overstated. Tata was not only a visionary who led one of India’s largest and most successful conglomerates, but he was also a humble and thoughtful leader whose wisdom extended far beyond the boardroom. His life’s work exemplifies the power of principled leadership, and those who had the privilege of knowing him, even briefly, were fortunate to witness the depth of his character.

I had the honour of meeting Ratan Tata on several occasions when we were both speakers at the Vibrant Gujarat summits in 2009, 2011, 2013, and 2015. These gatherings, which brought together global leaders in business and government, were platforms for discussions on economic growth and investment. But what remains with me most are the brief personal moments I was able to share with Mr Tata, where his insights on leadership, business, and the future of economies left a lasting impression.

During one of those events, at a lunch where we sat next to each other, he shared advice that has stuck with me to this day. He explained how his decision to move his car manufacturing business to Gujarat from another state was not simply about finding a location—it was about choosing a place that created a competitive advantage. Gujarat, he noted, offered lower taxes, faster approvals, and affordable electricity, making it the ideal place to foster business growth. “Business and investment will always go where the conditions are best,” he said, “and those conditions come from making it easier for businesses to succeed.”

That message resonated with me as a public servant. It underscored the importance of creating an environment where innovation and investment can thrive. Tata’s wisdom was rooted in experience and a deep understanding of global business, and his ability to distill such complex ideas into simple truths was part of what made him an extraordinary leader.

Ratan Tata’s business achievements speak for themselves. Under his leadership, Tata Group expanded from a respected Indian company into a global powerhouse, acquiring iconic brands such as Land Rover and Jaguar. His success was not merely in the acquisitions themselves but in how he navigated the integration of these global brands into the fabric of Tata’s ethos—one that valued integrity, sustainability, and long-term thinking. Tata’s leadership helped position India’s modern economy on the world stage, showcasing how businesses can succeed by combining tradition with forward-thinking strategies.

His legacy extends far beyond the boardroom. Tata was known for his philanthropic work, investing in healthcare, education, and rural development. His vision of business was never just about profit—it was about creating positive change and lifting people up. In many ways, Ratan Tata was a gift to humanity, and his loss will be felt deeply not only by those who knew him but by all who benefited from his life’s work.

It is worth noting that Tata’s influence reached Canada as well, where Tata Consulting Services has a significant presence. His commitment to fostering global connections and creating opportunities for growth was not limited by geography. Here in Canada, we are fortunate to have seen the positive impact of Tata’s leadership firsthand.

In reflecting on Ratan Tata’s life, it is clear that he was more than just a business leader—he was a visionary whose work demonstrated that success in business can go hand in hand with making the world a better place. His legacy is one of integrity, humility, and a commitment to improving lives. In an age where leaders are often defined by their power or wealth, Tata stood out for his grace and his dedication to humanity.

The passing of Ratan Tata is a profound loss, but it is also an opportunity for us to reflect on the lessons he taught us. He showed us that leadership is about more than financial success—it is about vision, integrity, and the drive to create conditions where others can thrive. Tata understood that the best environments for business growth are those where governments create opportunity, aligning their policies with fostering innovation and investment. His insight into how businesses flourish where conditions are optimized for success remains as relevant today as ever.

Ratan Tata was a lion of business, but more than that, he was a leader for the ages. His life and legacy will continue to inspire, and his contributions to both business and society will be remembered for generations to come. In remembering Ratan Tata, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and a leadership style defined by wisdom and compassion. He was, indeed, a gift to humanity.

by Patrick Brown, Mayor of the City of Brampton