Ratan Tata, the revered industrialist who led the Tata Group with distinction, ventured into the entertainment industry only once, co-producing the psychological thriller ‘Aetbaar’ (2004). However, the film, which starred Amitabh Bachchan, John Abraham, and Bipasha Basu, and was inspired by the Hollywood movie ‘Fear’, failed at the box office. Despite this rare misstep in an otherwise remarkable career, Tata’s contributions to various industries left an indelible mark on the country.
Following his passing at the age of 86, Bollywood icons and industry stalwarts expressed their deep sorrow and admiration for Tata’s legacy. Amitabh Bachchan paid tribute to Tata, remembering their collaborative efforts on humanitarian campaigns. Bachchan hailed Tata as a humble visionary with great foresight. Abraham, who shared Tata’s passion for animals, wrote a heartfelt message expressing his admiration for the business icon’s kindness toward both humans and animals.
The film’s other cast members, including Bipasha Basu and Supriya Pilgaonkar, reflected on their association with Tata during the making of ‘Aetbaar’. Basu thanked Tata for his empathy, while Pilgaonkar expressed pride in being part of his only Bollywood production.
Beyond ‘Aetbaar’, Tata was known for his understated nature and personal love for music and film, as seen during his appearance on Simi Garewal’s ‘Rendezvous’ in 1997. Garewal, Tata’s longtime friend, fondly recalled his unpretentious charm and integrity during the interview.
In the days following Tata’s passing, several Bollywood stars including Salman Khan, Ajay Devgn, Priyanka Chopra-Jonas, and Alia Bhatt paid their respects, lauding his legacy of leadership, philanthropy, and enduring contributions to India. The final rites for Tata were performed in Mumbai with full state honors, attended by a wide array of personalities from various walks of life, including Aamir Khan, his ex-wife Kiran Rao, and filmmaker SS Rajamouli.
Tata’s quiet, generous influence on India’s socio-economic fabric, paired with his unwavering integrity, continues to inspire millions.
Key Highlights:
- ‘Aetbaar’ flop yet memorable: Ratan Tata’s only Bollywood venture, co-produced in 2004, starred Amitabh Bachchan and John Abraham, but failed commercially.
- Celebrity tributes: Leading figures like Amitabh Bachchan, John Abraham, and Priyanka Chopra-Jonas hailed Tata for his humility, generosity, and impact on the nation.
- Legacy beyond business: Tata’s understated persona, love for music, and philanthropic contributions were celebrated, with stars acknowledging his influence on generations.