Famous quotes of Ratan Tata, India's most humble businessman

Noted industrialist Ratan Naval Tata passed away on Wednesday night at a hospital in Mumbai. He was 86. Tata was known for his significant influence, overseeing more than 30 companies operating in over 100 countries across six continents.

Despite his extensive business empire, he was never listed as a billionaire. Tata was known for his modest lifestyle, setting him apart from many of his peers. He was often referred to as a "secular living saint," reflecting his reputation for decency and integrity.

Also Read: How Ratan Tata impacted millions beyond the boardroom


His death marks the end of an era, leaving a legacy that will be remembered for generations. Tata's influence on global business is significant, and his commitment to ethical leadership continues to inspire future leaders.

Here are Ratan Tata's Famous Top 20 Quotes

"None can destroy iron, but its own rust can. Likewise, none can destroy a person, but their own mindset can."

"Power and wealth are not two of my main stakes."

"If you want to walk fast, walk alone. But if you want to walk far, walk together."

"Take the stones people throw at you, and use them to build a monument."

"I admire people who are very successful. But if that success has been achieved through too much ruthlessness, then I may admire that person less."

"Ups and downs in life are very important to keep us going because a straight line even in an ECG means we are not alive."

"One day you will realise that material things mean nothing. All that matters is the well-being of the people you love."

"The best leaders are those most interested in surrounding themselves with assistants and associates smarter than they are."

"I don't believe in work-life balance. I believe in work-life integration. Make your work and life meaningful and fulfilling, and they will complement each other."

"The biggest risk is not taking any risk. In a world that is changing quickly, the only strategy that is guaranteed to fail is not taking risks."

"Be persistent and resilient in the face of challenges, for they are the building blocks of success."

"Never underestimate the power of kindness, empathy, and compassion in your interactions with others."

"You may not always have a comfortable life, and you may not always be able to solve all the world's problems, but don't ever underestimate the importance you can have, because history has shown us that courage can be contagious, and hope can take on a life of its own."

Ratan Tata Quotes on leadership:

"Leadership is about taking responsibility, not making excuses."

"Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you, create your own opportunities."

"I have always been very confident and very upbeat about the future potential of India. I think it is a great country with great potential."

"People still believe what they read is necessarily the truth."

"I don’t believe in taking right decisions. I take decisions and then make them right."

"I followed someone who had very large shoes. He left me a great legacy, and I tried to follow that legacy."

"I will certainly not sell my stake in Tata Motors and Tata Steel, and never have, no matter how much I was criticised."