Bharat Ratna for Ratan Tata: India Inc and Politicians Call on Government

A growing chorus of voices from politicians and leaders of India Inc are urging the government to posthumously award Ratan Tata the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honor. As the nation mourns the loss of one of its most beloved industrialists and philanthropists, social media has been flooded with tributes. The renewed demand to honor Tata reflects a deep sense of respect and admiration for his contributions to industry and society.

Despite this, Tata himself had always been modest about such honors. In February 2021, amidst a rising campaign to award him the Bharat Ratna, he humbly asked his supporters to stop their efforts. “While I appreciate the sentiments expressed by a section of social media in terms of an award, I would humbly like to request that such campaigns be discontinued. Instead, I consider myself fortunate to be an Indian and to try and contribute to India’s growth and prosperity,” Tata wrote on social media. The hashtag #BharatRatnaForRatanTata had trended on Twitter in 2021, sparked by motivational speaker Dr. Vivek Bhindra, who highlighted Tata’s exceptional philanthropic work.

Following Tata’s passing, this movement has gained fresh momentum. Social media is now flooded with tributes referring to him as "Bharat Ratan," a play on his name that reflects his impact on India. Suhel Seth, an outspoken supporter, addressed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on X (formerly Twitter), writing: “It’s not my place to say this but dear @narendramodi, there will never be someone as deserving of the Bharat Ratna than Bharat’s Ratan. Inspiring by personal example, he gave millions hope through his philanthropy…and a true Indian to boot…it will only make the award look good.”

In Mumbai, during a State cabinet meeting, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde led a tribute to Tata. A condolence resolution was presented, acknowledging his vast contributions to industry and society. The cabinet unanimously passed a proposal urging the central government to confer the Bharat Ratna on Ratan Tata in recognition of his unparalleled achievements and service to the nation.

The Shiv Sena faction, led by Chief Minister Shinde, has officially called for the government to recommend Tata for the Bharat Ratna. Shiv Sena leader Rahool N Kanal has also appealed to the Chief Minister, reflecting a growing national sentiment that the honor should be awarded to one of India's most influential and respected figures.

The Bharat Ratna, established in 1954, is awarded for exceptional service or performance of the highest order in any field of human endeavor. Many believe that no one is more deserving of this award than Ratan Tata. Entrepreneur Sayaji Mane summed up the feelings of many, saying, “Who could be more deserving than Ratan Tata? He is the true Bharat Ratna, with or without the formal award.” Mane further emphasized that such honors should be given to individuals who genuinely contribute to the nation’s growth, rather than focusing solely on entertainers, athletes, or politicians.