8 Lessons to Learn from Industrialist & Philanthropist Ratan Tata

In a world thirsting for inspiration, there are those few individuals who possess the power to spark a revolution of kindness and compassion.

Ratan Tata was never in business solely to make profits. He was there to serve consumers, shareholders, and his employees with his strongly preached ethical business policy. He is an industrialist, a philanthropist and more than that, someone who wants his country to grow to unimaginable heights.

Ratan Tata addressed a wide set of issues in society throughout his life. His initiatives in child welfare and education, women’s empowerment, farmer’s empowerment, and health reached millions, ignited a wave of philanthropy, and set a precedent for major giving trends. These initiatives are made possible through the Tata Trusts, which are among the country’s oldest and largest public organizations.

The Tata Trusts

Under a team of dedicated professionals, Tata Trusts work tirelessly to make the world a better place. From providing disaster relief and care to the elderly during COVID-19 to establishing educational institutions across the country, Tata Trusts have been pivotal in the making of India as we know it today.

Tata Trusts exemplify the true spirit of collaboration, innovation, and impact-driven philanthropy, ensuring that every rupee invested creates a ripple effect of positive change. Despite his retirement, Ratan Tata continues to do his part in uplifting the communities to this day.

Retired from business but not from kindness

Ratan Tata's recent investment in the GoodFellow has captured attention and admiration globally. The GoodFellow, a start-up that offers companionship services for senior citizens, resonated deeply with Ratan Tata's philanthropic vision. He, being a single man in his eighties, understood the struggles of those like him who are less fortunate. His compassion can now provide thousands of senior citizens across India with the care and dignity they deserve. Given that a man in his eighties still cares for people, it's only fitting that we too contribute and do our part, don't you agree?

What can you learn from Ratan Tata’s philanthropic journey?

Whether you are an entrepreneur, a student, or a person wanting to make a difference in society, you can learn a thing or two from one of the most generous people in India. Here are eight of them.

1) Purposeful Giving

What good is giving if it does not serve a genuine purpose? Ratan Tata’s approach has always highlighted the importance of aligning one's philanthropy with personal values and passions. It involves a genuine commitment to making a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need. By passionately connecting with causes that resonate deeply, like his investment in companionship for senior citizens' service, your giving goes beyond mere financial contributions. Purposeful giving isn't just about the size of the donation; it's about the depth of empathy and conviction that empowers us to be catalysts for transformative social change.

2) Empathy and Compassion

Walking in someone else’s shoes when you can very well choose not to is rare, and Ratan Tata's philanthropic journey embodies that essence of empathetic and compassionate giving. Being a donor, apart from a monetary contribution, is an opportunity to understand different walks of life and your role in elevating them. Philanthropy should be approached with warmth and genuine care, ensuring that every act of generosity is infused with a profound desire to alleviate suffering, uplift spirits, and create a brighter future for all.

3) Long-term Vision

Ratan Tata's philanthropy stands as a testament to the power of a visionary approach with a focus on long-term impact. India wouldn’t have the automobile power that it today possesses if it weren’t for the visionary advancements made by Tata. He teaches us how envisioning a better future and looking beyond immediate results are pivotal for change. You, as a donor, have the power to invest in initiatives that have the potential to bring about lasting change. So when you choose to donate your share, make sure you donate for long-term change.

4) Strategic Steps

Just like a tree without roots can’t sustain itself for long, philanthropy without proper planning cannot make the impact expected. Ratan Tata never limited his strategic planning to his business, and that helped him touch millions of lives. You too can make a huge difference by identifying the problems you wish to support, your strengths, and your giving goals, so you can make the most of an opportunity. Having a strategic mindset not only makes a widespread impact but also makes you an asset to the community you serve.



5) Inclusion and Innovation

Nobody believed Tata when he was on his quest to build India’s first hatchback, but it was made possible with the Tata Indica. Tata always challenged conventional norms while he was leading the Tata Group. His philanthropy embraces a diverse range of causes that cater to the unique needs of different groups. When you do decide to donate, make sure you are inclusive of what is best for the communities you want to serve. Remember, no idea is bad when it comes to giving. So, don’t gatekeep your innovation; let the generosity flow.

6) Adaptability

You can’t make an impact for tomorrow if you work with the mindset of yesterday. You, as a donor, have a responsibility to evolve with the happenings and needs of your surroundings. One of the reasons Ratan Tata could achieve unimaginable success was because of his receptiveness to new ideas and innovative solutions. Embracing adaptive giving and taking quick and required action can make you an agent of positive change, always ready to tackle emerging challenges with creativity and compassion.

7) Collaborative Philanthropy

It isn’t possible for a single force to initiate massive change, and Ratan Tata understood that. He pushed for collaborative partnerships and the integration of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) for magnified impact, which he achieved. Businesses play a crucial role in driving positive change in society, and hence their philanthropic footprints need to be strong. By collaborating with government bodies, NGOs, and other stakeholders, CSR philanthropy surpasses individual efforts, leveraging collective resources to address social challenges.

8) Legacy of Giving

The Tata family's commitment to philanthropy spans over a century, and Ratan Tata has continued and expanded upon this noble tradition. This teaches us the importance of setting the right example for our younger generations and taking steps to pass on our giving habits to the future. You could make an impact that endures for years to come if only you instill the values in the generations to come. Society today needs a beacon of light that illuminates the path for future generations to carry forward the noble mission of giving back to the community.

Ratan Tata has lived a life of hope and transformation, impacting millions of lives and inspiring others to follow suit. While the immediate impact may not be enormous, the choice to initiate with a smaller one lies entirely within your control. A small donation, a small contribution, yet a huge smile.

Exclusively written for Giving for Good Foundation by Bhairavi Hiremath