In a poignant tribute to the late Ratan Tata, his trusted assistant Shantanu Naidu shared a deeply personal perspective on their unique bond.
“The hole that this friendship has now left with me, I will spend the rest of my life trying to fill. Grief is the price to pay for love. Goodbye, my dear lighthouse,” Naidu wrote on LinkedIn following Tata’s passing at 86.
Shantanu Naidu, Ratan Tata’s close aide extends farewell!
Their remarkable friendship began in 2014 through a shared passion for animal welfare. Naidu’s initiative to create reflective collars protecting stray dogs from nighttime accidents caught Tata’s attention, leading to an invitation to join his team. What started as a professional relationship blossomed into a profound connection, with Naidu becoming general manager of RNT Associates and a constant companion in Tata’s final years.
The story of their friendship offered a glimpse into Tata’s lesser-known personal side, revealing the business titan’s capacity for mentorship and genuine connection. Naidu’s rare public appearances alongside Tata spoke to their special bond.
Ratan Tata passes away on October 09
Ratan Tata‘s death at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital sparked global tributes, with Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran noting his contributions not just to the Tata Group but to the nation itself.
Naidu’s heartfelt farewell illuminated a more intimate portrait of Ratan Tata – not just as an industrial giant, but as a mentor, friend, and guiding light to those fortunate enough to know him personally.
