New Delhi: Ratan Tata was a noted philanthropist known for his uncountable charity works and for reaching out to those in need. Empathy ran deep in him and the sentiment was not only limited to people. The Tata Group chairman emeritus was also known for his love for animals, especially dogs. His life story is filled with various such anecdotes.
His deep commitment to those he loved was evident when he chose to forgo attending a royal award ceremony to stay by his ailing dog’s side. This act left a lasting impact on King Charles III, who had said, “That’s the man Ratan is.” Sadly, Ratan Tata passed away on October 9, 2024, at the age of 86 after a long illness, but his legacy and stories continue to inspire millions worldwide.
When Ratan Tata skipped a Royal honour to tend to his sick pet dog
It was in 2018, when King Charles, then Prince of Wales, hosted an event to honour Ratan Tata with a Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising his remarkable philanthropic contributions. Organised by the British Asian Trust, the ceremony was set to take place at Buckingham Palace, and Tata initially confirmed his attendance, making headlines for the event. However, just days before the ceremony, his pet dog fell gravely ill, prompting Tata to cancel his trip.
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This touching story, originally shared by businessman Suhel Seth, has resurfaced following the recent passing of one of the world’s most admired leaders.
1. Declined to accept lifetime achievement.
In 2018, King Charles III (then Prince Charles) honored Ratan Tata with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding philanthropic work.
But he refused.
Why?
One of his dogs had fallen seriously ill, and he didn’t go to take… pic.twitter.com/TN9NemTJXL
— Evan Luthra (@EvanLuthra) October 9, 2024
Animal Hospital: Ratan Tata’s Final Project
Before his passing in a Mumbai hospital, Ratan Tata ensured that his vision of providing life-saving care for thousands of animals would become a reality. His final project, the Small Animal Hospital Mumbai (SAHM), offers state-of-the-art care, including ICUs and HDUs equipped with life support systems for critically ill and injured animals, alongside other essential services.
Another example of his love for dogs is a rule that the Tata Group-owned Taj Mahal Hotel in Mumbai follows. At the direction of Ratan Tata, the hotel is not allowed to shoo away stray dogs if they enter the premises. The hotels in fact allow entry of dogs and even feed them.
