Ratan Tata's Legacy: Biographer Reveals His First Love and Biggest Regret
A rare, intimate look at Ratan Tata — his first love, his compassion, his regrets, and the timeless values that shaped India’s most respected business icon.
On Ratan Tata’s death anniversary, Mojo Story host Barkha Dutt spoke with Dr. Thomas Matthew, former IAS officer and author of Ratan Tata: A Life, the official biography of one of India’s most respected business icons. The discussion painted a deeply human portrait of Tata — a visionary industrialist with a compassionate heart.
Dr. Matthew shared unheard anecdotes, from Tata’s first love with American architect Caroline Jones to his lifelong affection for dogs and his simplicity despite immense wealth. The biography captures Tata’s daring passion for flying, his emotional ties with Air India, and his values-driven leadership that shaped the Tata Group’s global rise.
The interview also revisited Tata’s most difficult decision — removing Cyrus Mistry as chairman — which, Matthew said, remained his “biggest regret.” Yet, his life exemplified ethics and empathy, as seen in his response to the 26/11 terror attacks, where he personally ensured care for victims’ families, embodying his belief that “the Tata family extends beyond its boardrooms.”
Barkha Dutt concluded that Ratan Tata’s story is not merely about business success but about dignity, compassion, and integrity — values that define India’s most loved corporate leader.