'Ratan ji will not like it': Tata Sons' N Chandrasekaran shares a shareholder's reaction when he was about to take this decision

Addressing Economic Times's Business Leader of the Year award, N Chandrasekaran shared a heartfelt memory of Ratan Tata after the later was honoured with 'Jewel of India' award.

"Ratan is a very special person, I had the privilege of doing my full career with the Tata Group. For anyone like me, who joined the group as a professional, for me to shake hands or taking selfie with Ratan ji would've been a dream," said

"In 2017, I wanted to renovate Bombay House...one shareholder told me 'koi temple ko touch karta h'?


"Renovate, you mean vacate? Where will the dogs go?" asked Ratan Tata after N Chandrasekaran had asked him about the renovation of the Bombay House.

When Bombay House underwent its 2018 renovation, Tata ensured the dogs would not be forgotten. A spacious kennel was built on the ground floor, complete with a bathing area, a bunk bed for naps, and climate-controlled blinds—a level of care one might expect for people, not pets.

Perhaps the most telling moment of Tata’s devotion to animals was revealed in another incident. He was set to receive a prestigious lifetime achievement award from Prince Charles in London, but he canceled his trip at the last minute. His reason? His beloved dog had fallen gravely ill.

Among Tata’s dogs, one held a particularly special place in his heart—Goa. This stray dog had an unlikely journey, finding his way into a colleague’s car in Goa and eventually making Bombay House his home. The story of Goa’s arrival was often shared by Tata, who spoke with fondness about the bond they shared.

When Mumbai bid farewell to Ratan Tata, there was an image that stayed with those who attended his funeral. Among the mourners at the National Centre for the Performing Arts stood his loyal companion, Goa, a testament to the love and compassion.