Ratan Tata passed away at the age of 86, and tributes have been flooding social media since his demise. Industry leaders have shared their memories of the industrialist, while fans have reflected on his philanthropic acts. Among those paying tribute is Pakistani singer Zoheb Hassan, who wrote an emotional post on Facebook about his first encounter with Ratan Tata and his astonishment at visiting the home of “the most powerful industrialist of India.”
Hassan recounted a day when he received a call from Ratan Tata inviting him and his wife to record an album for CBS India, a music company. At the time, he had no idea he was speaking to Tata. A few days later, Tata met him for a face-to-face conversation, and Hassan described him as an “impeccably dressed” and “extremely soft-spoken man” with a “gentle smile.” He expressed his surprise upon realizing who Ratan Tata truly was.
The Singer’s Surprise at Ratan Tata’s Home
“After the launch of the album, he invited Nazia and me to his residence for dinner. We thought he probably lived in a palace. When we arrived, we were taken aback that the most powerful industrialist of India lived in such a humble abode. A small 2-bedroom flat, sparsely decorated. We met his sister, one servant, and an Alsatian whom he loved dearly. It was a simple dinner with a great man that I will never forget,” Hassan wrote.
He concluded his post by stating, “Mr. Tata was living proof that one can be an iconic #businessman and still be a true #gentleman. Dearly missed. RIP.” Along with his tribute, the singer shared a collage of throwback pictures.
Reactions on Social Media
Reactions from social media users have been positive. One Facebook user commented, “What a beautiful post,” while another said, “What a beautiful tribute for a great man. Thank you for sharing.” A third user shared, “Coming from you is such a great reminder to appreciate life’s moments with this Legend. Thanks,” and a fourth expressed, “Indeed he was a true gentleman as well as a kind and simple human being. He will be missed forever.”
Ratan Tata’s passing has left a significant void in India, and the widespread grief expressed by politicians, actors, musicians, and corporate leaders reflects the profound impact he had on the nation.