Ratan Tata, a legend who left us too soon, was a figure of innovation and integrity. He played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of Indian Business and transforming the Tata Group into what we see today, a global powerhouse of business. Ratan Tata is not just celebrated for his business moves and ideas but also for his commitment to ethical and social causes. Even after retiring, Ratan Tata was a big supporter of pushing the startup ecosystem in India.
Ratan Tata’s legacy is so much beyond corporate work, he was known for his humbleness and empathy towards humans and animals. Ratan Tata directed his generosity toward many whether it was education, healthcare, social service, or rural development, his contribution was impactful. It is no secret that Tata Group has been instrumental in introducing India to the Global Market, from acquiring iconic brands like Jaguar to introducing India to one of the most premium brands of coffee chain, Starbucks.
It might come as a surprise to many that Ratan Tata was the man behind making Zara a household fashion brand name in India. In the early 2000s, when the middle-class population was growing in India, there was a high demand search for an affordable yet fashionable clothing brand by the people. The middle class represented a major part of the Indian population who was in need of something that was economical yet stylish. Ratan Tata, the visionary man that he was, saw and considered this need of India and introduced a fashion brand called Zara to India through a joint venture with another group.
Zara opened its first shop in Delhi in 2010, starting a new fashion era in India. The plan was to target the metropolitan cities for store opening, grinding up Zara’s collection with local taste while keeping up the brand’s global appeal. Ratan Tata’s decision to introduce Zara to India was a demonstration of his visionary understanding of the transforming landscape of fashion. Today, Zara has expanded in multiple cities in India, catering to the fresh and trendy needs of Indians. For every old-money or chic look, Zara is the one look for.
