'An inspiration, a man of letters': PM Modi fondly remembers Ratan Tata in emotional tribute

PM Modi also acknowledged Tata's philanthropic efforts in improving healthcare infrastructure, which had a far-reaching impact on the lives of millions. (Image: X//@narendramodi)

A month after the passing of industrialist and philanthropist Ratan Tata, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Saturday, paid an emotional tribute to the late Tata Group chairman, reflecting on his monumental contributions to Indian industry, philanthropy, and society. In a heartfelt piece titled Tribute to Shri Ratan Tata, which was posted on the Prime Minister’s official website, PM Modi described Tata as the epitome of the finest traditions of Indian enterprise, with a deep commitment to integrity, excellence, and service.

"For the youth, Shri Ratan Tata was an inspiration, a reminder that dreams are worth pursuing and that success can coexist with compassion as well as humility. For others, he represented the finest traditions of Indian enterprise and a steadfast commitment to the values of integrity, excellence and service", stated PM Modi.

Its been a month since we bid farewell to Shri Ratan Tata Ji. His contribution to Indian industry will forever continue to inspire. Heres an OpEd I wrote which pays tribute to his extraordinary life and work. https://t.co/lt7RwVZEqe Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 9, 2024

Tata, the chairman emeritus of Tata Sons and a towering figure in India's industrial landscape, passed away on October 10 at the age of 86 at Breach Candy hospital in Mumbai.

The Prime Minister acknowledged that Tata's absence has been profoundly felt, not just in India, but around the world. His impact, PM Modi writes, continues to resonate through the countless lives he touched and the visionary dreams he nurtured during his lifetime. "Generations will be grateful to him for making India a better, kinder, and more hopeful place," he wrote.

The Prime Minister noted that Tata’s vision went far beyond business success.  "Under his leadership, the Tata Group ascended to new heights, embodying respect, honesty and credibility worldwide. Despite this, he wore his achievements lightly, with humility and kindness," says the Prime Minister.

"Tata’s work was not merely about business; it was about building a future for all," PM Modi noted. He described him as a role model who showed that dreams are worth pursuing and that success could coexist with humility, compassion, and integrity. “For many, he represented the finest traditions of Indian enterprise—one rooted in values of respect, honesty, and credibility,” the Prime Minister said.

One of Tata's most defining qualities, according to PM Modi, was his mentorship of India’s growing startup ecosystem. "Shri Ratan Tata’s unwavering support for the dreams of others was one of his most defining qualities. In recent years, he became known for mentoring India’s StartUp ecosystem, investing in many promising ventures. He understood the hopes and aspirations of young entrepreneurs and recognized their potential to shape India's future. By backing their efforts, he empowered a generation of dreamers to take bold risks and push boundaries," the Prime Minister noted.

This mentorship, PM Modi said, has created a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship that will continue to positively impact India for decades to come.

The Prime Minister also highlighted Tata’s influence on Indian businesses to aim for global excellence. "He championed the idea that Indian enterprises should set global benchmarks. His vision is one that will inspire future leaders to make India synonymous with world-class quality," he said.

In addition, PM Modi noted that Tata’s leadership was defined not just by his professional achievements, but also by his ability to care for the less fortunate, setting a true example for future generations of leaders.

PM Modi also recalled Tata's remarkable leadership during the aftermath of the 26/11 terror attacks in Mumbai, when Tata swiftly reopened the iconic Taj Hotel.

"For crores of Indians, Shri Ratan Tata’s patriotism shone brightest in times of crisis. His swift reopening of the iconic Taj Hotel in Mumbai after the 26/11 terror attacks was a rallying call to the nation—India stands united, refusing to yield to terrorism. That moment showed the strength and resolve of our nation, and Ratan Tata’s actions were a testament to his unwavering commitment to India," the Prime Minister stated.

PM Modi also reflected on his relationship with Ratan Tata, remembering their close interactions, especially during his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat. He recalled their collaboration on the inauguration of an aircraft manufacturing facility in Vadodara, a project initiated by Tata himself. "His presence was greatly missed," PM Modi wrote.

He fondly remembered Tata as a "man of letters", sharing that Tata would often write to him on a variety of issues. "I remember Shri Ratan Tata Ji as a man of letters - he would frequently write to me on various issues, be it matters of governance, expressing appreciation for government support, or sending congratulatory wishes after electoral victories, he noted. PM Modi went onto mention that their close interactions continued even after he moved to the Centre, with Tata remaining a steadfast partner in India's nation-building efforts.

The Prime Minister, furthermore, fondly remembered Tata’s active involvement in the Swachh Bharat mission, noting that Tata understood that cleanliness was integral to India’s progress. "I still remember his heartfelt video message for the Swachh Bharat Mission’s tenth anniversary. It was among his final public appearances," he recalled.

PM Modi also acknowledged Tata's philanthropic efforts in improving healthcare infrastructure, which had a far-reaching impact on the lives of millions.

"Today, as we remember him, we are reminded of the society he envisioned—a place where business is a force for good, where individual potential is recognized, and where progress is measured by the well-being and happiness of all," PM Modi concluded.

Shortly after Tata's demise last month, PM Modi had expressed sorrow over his passing, describing him as a "visionary business leader, a compassionate soul, and an extraordinary human being." In a heartfelt message, he had highlighted Tata's commitment to championing causes such as education, healthcare, sanitation, and animal welfare, hailing his passion for dreaming big and giving back to society.