Ratan Tata: Understanding the legend by decoding his words

Ratan Naval Tata, Chairman Emeritus of the Tata Group and a modernday legend, died late on October 9. He was 86 and unwell, undergoing treatment at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital for some time.

Two days before death, in a social media post, Tata had dismissed conjectures about his health in the media and industry, assuring all he was just going through routine medical check-up.

One of the best faces of Brand India in the global arena for decades, Ratan Tata ran over 30 firms operating in more than a hundred nations across six continents.

He has been described as a titan for his impact on industry and also as a saint for his simplicity and philanthropy.

It is said that people are best recognised through their words. Here are a few of the best quotes that help understand the phenomenon that was Ratan Tata:

“Take the stones people throw at you and use them to build a monument.”

“I don’t believe in taking the right decisions, I take decisions and then make them right.”

“If you want to walk fast, walk alone. But if you want to walk far, walk together.”

“None can destroy iron, but its own rust can. Likewise, none can destroy a person, but their own mindset can.”

“I don’t believe in work-life balance. I believe in work-life integration. Make your work and life meaningful.”

“I don’t believe in leaving things to luck. I believe in hard work and preparation.”

“Ups and downs in life are very important to keep us going because a straight line, even in an ECG, means we are not alive.”

“Success is not measured by the position you hold, but by the impact you have on others.”

“I admire people who are very successful. But if that success has been achieved through too much ruthlessness, then I may admire that person less.”

“Be persistent and resilient in the face of challenges, for they are the building blocks of success.”

“Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge.”

“The best leaders are those most interested in surrounding themselves with assistants and associates smarter than they are.”

“Never underestimate the power of kindness, empathy, and compassion in your interactions with others.”

“Empathy and kindness are the greatest strengths a leader can possess.”

“Power and wealth are not two of my main stakes.”

“The day I can't do something for myself, will be the day I pack my bags and leave.”

— RATAN TATA
(28 December 1937 - 9 October 2024)