It was a poignant moment during the funeral of
Ratan Tata, as his beloved dog, 'Goa,' attended the ceremony, paying homage to the man who had saved and cared for him. The ceremony was held at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) following Tata's passing at the age of 86 after a brief illness. Known for his visionary leadership of the Tata Group, Ratan Tata’s love for animals, especially dogs, was one of the most endearing aspects of his personality.
Ratan Tata and his bond with ‘Goa’
'Goa,' a stray dog that Tata had rescued during a trip to Goa, became a cherished part of his life, as well as a frequent presence at the Tata Group headquarters, Bombay House.
Alongside Tata's other pets, Tito and Tango, Goa was more than just a companion—he was a symbol of Tata’s kindness and love for animals. Goa's presence at Tata's funeral was a touching reminder of the deep bond they shared.
Tata had often spoken about his affection for his dogs, including sharing heartwarming moments on social media. He once posted on Instagram: “A few heartwarming moments with the adopted Bombay House dogs this Diwali, especially Goa, my office companion,” highlighting the joy his pets brought him.
Ratan Tata’s dog Goa’s loyalty and compassion at the funeral
At Tata’s funeral, 'Goa' was seen among the mourners, displaying loyalty to his owner until the end. The sight of the dog at the ceremony touched many hearts, reinforcing Tata's compassion for animals. This connection was not only personal but also extended to his professional life, as he transformed Bombay House into a pet-friendly space for stray dogs. The headquarters provided food, water, toys, and play areas for strays, reflecting Tata’s commitment to animal welfare.
Ratan Tata's passion for animal welfare
Ratan Tata’s dedication to animals went far beyond his personal pets. He was an active supporter of various animal welfare organisations, including People for Animals, Bombay SPCA, and Animal Rahat. In July 2023, Tata played a significant role in the establishment of the Small Animal Hospital in Mumbai, which now cares for nearly 200 animal patients, a lasting testament to his concern for the welfare of animals.
Tata’s passion for animals was not without sacrifice. In one notable incident, Tata declined a prestigious award from King Charles III (then Prince Charles) because one of his dogs, Tango, was gravely ill. His close friend, Suhel Seth, shared how Tata couldn’t bear to leave his pet's side, further showcasing his deep empathy.
Tributes pour in for Ratan Tata
Ratan Tata’s passing elicited widespread grief across India and beyond. Tributes poured in from all corners, with notable personalities mourning the loss of a national icon. Actor Amitabh Bachchan expressed his sorrow on Instagram, recalling his collaborations with Tata on humanitarian projects. Bollywood celebrities, including Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, and Priyanka Chopra, also honoured Tata, remembering him as a kind soul whose impact transcended business and philanthropy.
Ratan Tata’s legacy will forever be remembered for his incredible contribution to Indian industry, his charitable efforts, and most importantly, his compassion for animals. From rescuing strays like Goa to supporting large-scale animal welfare projects, Tata’s impact on the world of philanthropy and social good continues to inspire future generations.
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