Today, we pause to honor the extraordinary life of Mr. Ratan Tata—an icon whose presence transcended business and touched lives in deeply personal ways. While we mourn his loss, we also celebrate a man whose heart was as large as his vision. His journey was not just about building a business empire; it was about building a better world.

Ratan Tata began his career in 1961 at Tata Steel, where he worked on the shop floor managing operations. This experience grounded him in the importance of hard work and humility. He also had a lifelong love for aviation, becoming the first Indian to fly an F-16 fighter jet.

Ratan Tata took the Tata Group from a $5 billion company to a $100 billion global powerhouse. His acquisitions of marquee global brands like Tetley Tea, Jaguar Land Rover and Corus Steel put India’s business prowess on the global map. Under his stewardship, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) became the first Indian IT firm to cross $1 billion in revenues. What truly set him apart wasn’t just what he did, but how he did it—with grace, humility, and unwavering integrity. His love for dogs was well known, and his personal care for stray animals around the Tata offices made him not just a business leader, but a symbol of humanity.

Even after retirement, he supported India’s startup ecosystem by backing 40 companies across sectors like Ola, Paytm and Urban Company, believing in the potential of young entrepreneurs.

Awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2000 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2008, India’s highest civilian honors, and the Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy in 2007, Ratan Tata left an indelible mark on both business and society. But no award can truly capture what he meant to so many. He was a mentor, a guide, and an inspiration—showing that true success is measured not by what you take, but by what you leave behind.

Mr. Tata, you weren’t just a titan of industry—you were a giant of humanity. You have touched countless lives and inspired generations. As you now rest, we take your legacy forward, striving to build with the same integrity, humility, and heart that defined you.

Your light now shines in the heavens, just as your vision once spanned the world. Rest in peace, Mr. Tata. The world will forever be grateful.

Crayon Data had the rare privilege of meeting Mr. Tata twice - once when he met us to invest in Crayon Data and then when we hosted a fireside chat with him for a small group of leaders.