Ratan Tata, RIP! 'Goodbye, My Dear Lighthouse': Shantanu Naidu pens heartfelt farewell to Ratan Tata
PTC Web Desk: In an emotional tribute, Shantanu Naidu, the general manager at Ratan Tata's office, bid a heartfelt farewell to his mentor and "dear lighthouse" following the industrialist's passing at the age of 86. Ratan Tata's departure marks the end of a legacy that spanned over two decades, where he steered a wide range of ventures within the Tata Group.
Shantanu Naidu, who is an MBA from Cornell University and founder of the Goodfellows startup, shared his grief in a deeply touching LinkedIn post, writing, "The hole that this friendship has now left with me, I will spend the rest of my life trying to fill. Grief is the price to pay for love." His words resonated with those who witnessed the profound bond between the two.
The 28-year-old, the fifth generation in his family to serve the Tata Group, was seen riding out of Ratan Tata’s residence on a Yezdi motorcycle, leading the truck carrying the mortal remains of the beloved industrialist. Their relationship was built on a mutual love for dogs, evolving into a close companionship that transcended professional boundaries.
Born in Bombay, now Mumbai, in 1937, Ratan Tata's life was marked by his courage to take risks, his compassion, and his vision for the future.
After taking charge of the Tata empire in 1991, he navigated the company through India’s transformative economic reforms. Under his leadership, the conglomerate grew globally, acquiring prestigious brands such as Jaguar and Land Rover, and establishing a lasting legacy in the salt-to-steel industry.
In recent years, he dedicated himself to philanthropic efforts through the Tata Trusts, investing in India's next generation of startups and social causes. Now, as the nation mourns the loss of a visionary leader, his trusted aide Shantanu Naidu is left grappling with the void his mentor has left behind, capturing the deep pain of losing a guiding light.
- With inputs from agencies
