‘Tata showed that business and humanity can go hand in hand’
(From left) N Chandrasekaran
from the Tata Group, Indian prime minister
Narendra Modi and Ratan Tata in New Delhi in
October 2019.
By LORD JITESH GADHIAOct 18, 2024
RATAN TATA, one of India’s most revered business leaders, was much more than a titan of industry.
He was an emblem of humility, compassion, and visionary leadership. His life journey was testament to the idea that true success is not just measured by wealth, but also by the impact one makes on society.
Born on December 28, 1937, into the legendary Tata family, Ratan Naval Tata was raised with a deep sense of responsibility to carry forward the legacy of one of India’s oldest and most respected business empires. Yet, RNT as he was often referred to by associates, was always more than just an heir to a fortune. He exemplified a rare blend of tradition and innovation, and under his leadership, the Tata Group grew from a predominantly Indian entity into a global powerhouse.
Tata took the reins of Tata Sons in 1991, at a time when India was at the cusp of economic liberalisation. Over the next two decades, he transformed the Tata Group, turning it into a global player with a presence in more than 100 countries. His strategic decisions – such as the acquisition of Tetley Tea, Corus Steel, and Jaguar Land Rover – were bold and visionary, propelling the group into the global spotlight. These moves were not just about expanding business, they reflected his belief that Indian companies could compete on the world stage.
Indeed, his famous quote, “I don’t believe in taking right decisions. I take decisions and then make them right,” speaks volumes about his risk-taking ability and determination.
It was a personal honour for me to have played my own small role in this journey as a lead adviser to Tata Steel on its $13 billion acquisition of Corus, during which I had the pleasure of holding regular meetings with RNT over a period of almost two years and witnessed him operate at close quarters.
Despite his notable business successes, what set him apart was his unwavering commitment to ethical business practices. In an era when corporate behaviours often lacked integrity, Tata was a beacon of values. RNT’s leadership was driven by the philosophy that businesses should benefit the society in which they operate.
This principle of trusteeship, which was deeply ingrained in the Tata Group’s ethos, remained central to his vision and is being carried forward by the next gen[1]eration of leaders, led by N Chandrasekaran, current chair of Tata Sons.
RNT’s legacy is as much about giving back as it is about building a business empire. A significant portion of Tata Sons’ profits goes towards charitable causes, and under his leadership, the Tata Trusts have been instrumental in driving social initiatives across healthcare, education, and rural development. From funding cancer hospitals to supporting India’s space exploration, Tata has always believed in using wealth for greater good.
Again, I have seen this first hand, through the collaboration between the British Asian Trust and the Tata Trusts, and our longstanding association with S Ramadorai, former CEO of Tata Consultancy Services.
Lord Jitesh Gadhia
RNT’s contributions during times of crisis have been particularly noteworthy. Whether it was providing relief during natural disasters or his personal donation of `1,500 crore (£1.36bn) towards Covid-19 relief efforts, he has consistently demonstrated that compassion is at the heart of leadership.
Despite his status, he remained a man of great humility. He was known for his simple lifestyle, often driving himself to work, and for his interactions with employees and colleagues, marked by respect and kindness, regardless of heirarchy.
Even after stepping down as chairman of the Tata Group in 2012, RNT continued to inspire. Whether through his investments in startups, mentoring young entrepreneurs or advocating for animal welfare, his post-retirement years continued his restless drive to make a difference.
He not only shaped the corporate world, but also touched the lives of millions across the globe. His leadership style, characterised by empathy and a deep sense of responsibility, set new benchmarks for business leaders. He demonstrated that success is not just about building profitable businesses, but also about building a better world.
In an era where corporate titans are often seen as distant, RNT remained deeply connected to the people. His warmth, generosity, and genuine care for the well-being of others made him a role model, not just for business leaders, but also for anyone aspiring to lead with integrity and purpose.
Ratan Tata’s life and legacy are a masterclass in leadership, compassion, and vision. He has shown the world that business and humanity can go hand in hand, and that true success lies in uplifting those around you.
As a business magnate, philanthropist, and humanitarian, his contributions to India and the world are unparalleled. His journey is a shining example of how one can create lasting change while staying rooted in values and principles.
In paying tribute to RNT, we celebrate not just a business leader, but a man whose kindness, foresight, and relentless pursuit of excellence will continue to inspire generations. He remains an eternal icon of what it means to lead with a heart of gold.
THE Jain community in London came together for a historic celebration, honouring five teenagers who successfully completed the eight-day Athai Tap fast, one of the most respected spiritual practices in Jainism.
The children – Moksh Shah, Labdhi Mehta, Mithil Shah, Svara Gandhi, and Dylan Shah – each from different families, were recognised for their discipline, devotion, and inner strength. Athai Tap involves abstaining from food for eight continuous days, a test of both body and spirit, undertaken as a way of seeking spiritual progress and self-control, according to a statement.
More than 300 members of the community gathered at the Potters Bar Derasar to mark the milestone earlier this month. The event began with the teenagers arriving in a limousine before walking down a red carpet, where they were greeted with cheers, blessings, and warm embraces.
The programme reflected the joy and unity of the occasion. Mothers of the tapasvis performed a graceful welcome dance, siblings gave heartfelt and creative introductions, while fathers joined together in a lively stage act. Devotional Jain songs were played, before the celebration concluded with a spirited Raas Garba dance that saw people of all ages joining in with colour and energy.
For many in attendance, the event was more than a celebration of fasting. It was a reminder of the strength of faith, the value of cultural roots, and the inspiration that young people can provide when they commit to tradition and spirituality, the statement added.
Attendees described the event as a proud moment for London’s Jain community.
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Enninful also gave his view on a recent American Eagle campaign featuring actress Sydney Sweeney
Former British Vogue editor-in-chief Edward Enninful says “anti-woke” rhetoric is influencing fashion.
He warns the industry is reverting to European and super-thin beauty standards.
Enninful has launched a new inclusive media venture, EE72, with Julia Roberts on its debut cover.
He dismisses rumours of a fallout with Anna Wintour, saying she supported his departure from Vogue.
He also commented on recent advertising controversies, including Sydney Sweeney’s American Eagle campaign.
Fashion industry ‘in flux’
Edward Enninful, the former editor-in-chief of British Vogue, has warned that fashion risks going backwards on diversity, with super-thin and European looks once again dominating as the beauty norm.
Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Radical with Amol Rajan during London Fashion Week, he said that “anti-woke” and anti-diversity sentiment was “having a moment.”
“I think we’re potentially going back to an industry that’s just sort of, ‘one type is the norm, being European is the norm, being super-thin is the norm’,” he said.
Launch of EE72
Enninful, who left British Vogue in 2023, has launched a new media platform called EE72, describing it as “inclusive.” Its first quarterly print edition highlights the beauty of women over 50 and features Julia Roberts, 57, on the cover.
The title takes its name from Enninful’s year of birth, 1972. He said he felt it was “the perfect time” to return to the industry, which he described as “in flux” and still facing “a lot of work to be done.”
Champion of diversity
Born in Ghana, Enninful came to London as an asylum seeker. He became fashion director of i-D magazine at 18 before being appointed as the first Black editor-in-chief of British Vogue. He used the role to champion broader representation, saying he wanted to reflect “the world we live in today.”
Asked if he believed an “anti-woke moment” was taking place, he agreed, saying: “Woke is a dirty word. We see what’s happening in the world politically. So anything that’s not deemed as normal or the norm is seen as wrong.”
Departure from Vogue
Enninful also addressed speculation about his relationship with Dame Anna Wintour, who is stepping down as editor-in-chief of American Vogue after 37 years.
He dismissed claims of a falling out, explaining: “When I took the job, I gave myself five years and I did six. Anna asked me to give them a year’s notice so they could find my replacement, who turned out to be Chioma Nnadi. So it was my decision to leave.”
He said Wintour had been “very supportive,” adding: “Anna and I, we text each other all the time. You’re going to see us together.”
Advertising controversy
Enninful also gave his view on a recent American Eagle campaign featuring actress Sydney Sweeney, where the strapline “Sydney Sweeney has great jeans” drew criticism.
Some suggested the wordplay implied a racially exclusive beauty standard, while others said the outrage was exaggerated. Enninful commented: “I thought people really read into it probably deeper than I would have… But then on the other hand, I guess if you have a blonde woman sitting there talking about her jeans, it will trigger some people.”
He concluded that the reaction reflected how “the population is quite divided.”
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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said the new contract with Apollo Tyres runs until March 2028. (Photo: BCCI)
INDIAN cricket has signed Apollo Tyres as its new lead sponsor after fantasy sports platform Dream11 ended its contract following a government ban on online gambling.
The men's team travelled to the United Arab Emirates for the ongoing Asia Cup without a sponsor on their shirts after Dream11 exited the deal, which was worth about $44 million and was set to run until 2026.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said the new contract with Apollo Tyres runs until March 2028. While the value was not disclosed, the board said it is higher than the previous deal.
"The new partnership, secured after a rigorous bidding process, represents a substantial increase in sponsorship value, signifying the immense and growing commercial appeal of Indian cricket," the BCCI said in a statement.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia said, "We are excited about this being Apollo's first major sponsorship in India cricket, which speaks volumes about the sport's unparalleled reach and influence. This is more than a commercial agreement; it's a partnership between two institutions that have earned the trust and respect of millions."
Apollo Tyres Vice-Chairman and Managing Director Neeraj Kanwar said, "Cricket's unmatched popularity in India and worldwide makes it an honour for us to become the national team lead sponsor of Team India."
The Apollo Tyres logo will appear on the jerseys of the Indian men's and women's teams across all formats.
Last month, the Indian parliament passed a law banning online gambling. The government said gambling platforms had caused financial distress, addiction and even suicide, and were linked to fraud, money laundering and terrorism financing. Fantasy sports apps such as Dream11 continue to operate, though for prizes and not cash.
Sydney Sweeney reportedly offered £45m for a leading role in a major Bollywood film
The package includes £35m in fees and £10M in sponsorship deals
Filming is tentatively planned for early 2026 across New York, Paris, London, and Dubai
The project could make Sweeney one of the highest-paid Hollywood stars to join Indian cinema
A record-breaking offer
Hollywood actor Sydney Sweeney has reportedly been approached with a staggering £45M deal to star in one of the most expensive Bollywood films ever produced.
The 28-year-old Euphoria and The White Lotus star is said to have been offered £35m in fees plus an additional £10m through sponsorship agreements.
Details of the proposed project
The untitled film would cast Sweeney as a young American celebrity who falls in love with an Indian star. Filming is expected to begin early next year, with international locations including New York, Paris, London, and Dubai.
Industry insiders describe the project as an effort to bring Indian cinema to an even larger global audience, with Sweeney’s involvement seen as a move to elevate its international appeal.
Industry perspective
A source close to the negotiations said: “Sydney was shocked by the offer at first — £45m is an incredible sum. But the project is intriguing, and it could elevate her global profile even further. Nothing has been decided yet, but it’s a huge opportunity and she is weighing her options carefully.”
A step into Bollywood
If she accepts, Sweeney would join other international stars who have crossed into Bollywood, including Priyanka Chopra and Shilpa Shetty. The Indian film industry has increasingly sought crossover projects to expand its global reach.
Recent career highlights
Sweeney, who rose to fame on HBO’s Euphoria and The White Lotus, has recently been building her film career. Her latest project, Christy, sees her portraying US boxing champion Christy Martin, the first female boxer to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated.
Speaking about the physically demanding role, Sweeney said: “Every single fight you see, we’re actually punching each other. I always believed that you wouldn’t be able to make it feel real if it’s a stunt double or if it’s faking the hits.” Christy is set for release on November 7.
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