The love story between Ratan Tata and Simi Garewal was a quiet, yet profound chapter in both of their lives, marked by mutual respect and deep admiration.
Ratan Tata, known today as one of India’s most influential business magnates, was born into the prestigious Tata family and spent his early years studying architecture at Cornell University. By the 1960s, he was gaining experience abroad before returning to India to gradually take over the reins of the Tata Group. Simi Garewal, on the other hand, was already a celebrated actress, having starred in several films by the 1960s. She was known for her grace, sophistication, and charm, earning her a place as one of Bollywood’s most iconic personalities.
Their paths crossed during the early days of their careers, and what followed was a deeply private romance. Simi has always spoken highly of Ratan Tata, describing him as a “perfectionist” with a keen sense of humour, humility, and a gentlemanly demeanour. In one interview, with Times of India in 2011, she mentioned that Tata is “the perfect gentleman” and highlighted how money was never his driving force, which set him apart from others in their circles. She also noted that he was more relaxed abroad than in India, perhaps indicating the pressures he faced as an industrialist back home.
She also shared a nostalgic photo of Ratan Tata in 2020 on her social media, which reignited interest in their past.
Unlike many industrialists, Tata was never driven by money, which further deepened Simi’s respect for him. Their relationship was significant enough that they even considered marriage, although it ultimately did not materialize. It is said that personal and external circumstances, such as Tata’s dedication to work and family, played a role in keeping them apart.
Simi’s own life had been filled with its share of high-profile relationships. Before Ratan, she had a passionate relationship with the Maharaja of Jamnagar, and later, she also dated cricketer Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi. But her bond with Ratan Tata was unique—built on a foundation of mutual respect and admiration. Simi has said that Ratan Tata was more relaxed outside of India than within, perhaps alluding to the pressures that came with his public role back home.
While their relationship ended, the two remained close over the years. Even decades later, Simi continues to speak warmly of Tata, reflecting fondly on their time together. Both individuals eventually chose to remain unmarried, with Simi commenting in interviews that she had been through enough in her romantic life to understand the complexities of love.
Also read: Ratan Tata’s Remarkable Journey: Legacy of Leadership and a Billion-Dollar Net Worth
Their story is one of “what might have been,” a beautiful connection that could not fully bloom due to life’s unpredictable circumstances.
