Kamal Haasan Calls Ratan Tata His 'Personal Hero', Recalls Meeting Him At Taj Hotel After 2008 Mumbai Attack

Veteran actor Kamal Haasan shared a poignant reflection on his personal connection with Ratan Tata, whom he first met after the 2008 Mumbai attacks, calling him his ‘personal hero.'

Veteran industrialist and Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons, Ratan Tata, passed away on October 9 at the age of 86. He had been admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital earlier in the week following a sudden drop in blood pressure. His death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from across the nation. Among them, veteran actor Kamal Haasan shared a poignant reflection on his personal connection with Tata, whom he first met after the 2008 Mumbai attacks, calling him his ‘personal hero.'

Kamal Haasan pays tribute to Ratan Tata

Kamal Haasan wrote, “Ratan Tata Ji was a personal hero of mine, someone I’ve tried to emulate throughout my life. A national treasure whose contributions in nation-building shall forever be etched in the story of modern India.”

He continued, “His true richness lay not in material wealth but in his ethics, integrity, humility and patriotism. In the immediate aftermath of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, I met him while staying at the iconic Taj Hotel. In that moment of national crisis, the titan stood tall and became the embodiment of the Indian spirit, to rebuild and emerge stronger as a nation. My profound condolences to his family, friends, Tata Group and my fellow Indians.”

 

Ratan Tata's Death

Ratan Tata's passing leaves a significant void in India’s corporate and philanthropic spheres, and his loss is mourned by people worldwide. The Tata family issued a statement, expressing, “It is with deep sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Ratan.”

The statement further read, “We, his brothers, sisters and family, take solace and comfort in the outpouring of love and respect from all who admired him. While he is no longer with us in person, his legacy, humility, generosity and purpose will continue to inspire future generations. During this time of grief, we request privacy as we come together to honour his memory.”

Ratan Tata’s legacy extends far beyond his exceptional business acumen, as he was widely respected for his philanthropic efforts and ethical leadership. His contributions across industries will remain an enduring source of inspiration. As Bollywood stars and business leaders come together to honor his memory, his profound influence will continue to resonate for years to come.