Industrialist, philanthropist, and avid dog lover, Ratan Tata, passed away at the age of 86 in Mumbai yesterday, leaving behind a legacy not only in the business world but also as a compassionate advocate for stray animals. To honor his contributions, the national flag will be flown at half-mast across government offices in Maharashtra.
While known for transforming Tata Group into a global conglomerate, Mr. Tata’s profound connection with animals, especially dogs, showcased a lesser-known yet deeply compassionate side. He was a staunch advocate for the welfare of stray and abandoned animals, frequently expressing concern for their safety, particularly during harsh weather conditions like the monsoons when many stray dogs seek shelter under vehicles.
One heartwarming story from Mr. Tata’s life exemplifies his love for animals. During a visit to Goa, a stray dog began to follow him, and Mr. Tata, struck by the bond, decided to adopt the dog and bring him back to Mumbai. He named the dog ‘Goa,’ and the two shared a close bond. Goa now resides at the historic Bombay House, Tata Group’s headquarters in Mumbai, alongside other stray dogs welcomed at the premises. Mr. Tata’s social media is filled with pictures of him and his beloved canine companions, reflecting his lifelong dedication to animal welfare.
In 2018, Mr. Tata was set to receive a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the British Royal Family, an event organized by King Charles III (then Prince Charles) and the British Asian Trust. However, despite confirming his attendance, Mr. Tata decided to stay home to care for his sick dog. Businessman Suhel Seth later recounted how Mr. Tata explained his decision: “Tango and Tito, my dogs—one of them has fallen terribly ill. I can’t leave him and come.”
In addition to his personal devotion to animals, Mr. Tata also made significant contributions to animal welfare infrastructure. One of his most notable efforts was the creation of the Small Animal Hospital in Mumbai (SAHM), a state-of-the-art, five-storey facility capable of treating nearly 200 animals. This initiative, announced in 2017, was initially planned for Navi Mumbai, but Mr. Tata insisted on a more central location to make the hospital easily accessible for pet parents. The hospital, which opened in July, is a testament to his vision of providing quality care for both strays and pets.
Ratan Tata’s legacy will live on not only through his contributions to Indian industry but also through his tireless efforts to improve the lives of animals, especially those without homes. His compassion, empathy, and love for dogs have left an indelible mark on both the corporate world and the realm of animal welfare.