Ratan Tata Leaves Behind A Legacy of Compassion

The man may be no more, but his love for dogs, all animals really, is endless. A tribute to Ratan Tata, the legendary tycoon and animal welfare champion...

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He passed away on Oct 9 this year at the age of 86, living a life of solitude, success, compassion and kindness. He was known the world over as a philanthropic businessman, with a heart that bled for the underprivileged, especially the four-legged.

The love and affection that Ratan Tata possessed for animals is hardly unknown. So it will come as no surprise to see a bunch of strays setting up home and taking shelter at Ratan Tata's properties such as Bombay House, the global HQs of the Tata Group. Soon after, the Taj Hotels, not just in Bombay, but across the country, began to welcome any and every community animal wishing to enter and stay a while at its many hotels, as per Mr Tata's mandate.

When we pass by Bombay House, a stone's throw from our office, we see this well-fed canine taking her siesta. Then another one stroll by, waiting for a pet on the go. And now, when we visit Taj at Gateway, we see one, sometimes two, furry friends at the entrance taking shade by the flower pots. Or wagging away to welcome guests. Or simply going about their day in quiet leisure. These strays are permitted to roam freely around the lobby and public spaces, are provided shelter and food, and receive occasional health check-ups. We love it! The joy these beings bring, just seem to melt your worries away. You do them good, they do you good and over.

Treat them with kindness, embrace everyone, be inclusive, the great Mr Tata would emphasise. Community animals must not be shunned away and must be taken care of, as much as possible, especially in the sweltering Bombay heat or the torrential rains.