During Ratan Tata’s funeral, a poignant moment occurred when Shantanu Naidu, one of Tata’s closest aides, received warm embraces from Mumbai policemen. This simple gesture encapsulated the collective grief felt by many over the loss of a man who profoundly impacted lives, including Naidu’s.
As Tata’s hearse traversed the streets, Naidu, visibly moved, led the procession on his motorcycle, surrounded by a supportive crowd. The bear hugs from the officers offered him a brief moment of comfort amidst his sorrow, symbolizing the city’s shared mourning.
In a LinkedIn post, Naidu expressed his deep sense of loss, stating, “Still coming to terms with the fact that I will never see him smile again, or get to make him smile.” He thanked the strangers and police officers for their kindness, describing the bear hugs as “a parting gift” that provided solace during this challenging time.
Naidu and Tata’s relationship blossomed from a shared passion for animal welfare, beginning with Naidu’s initiative, Motopaws, aimed at protecting stray dogs. Their first meeting led to a friendship that transcended professional boundaries. Together, they launched Motopaws, and Tata mentored Naidu as he established his ventures, including Goodfellows, a startup providing companionship for the elderly—a cause dear to Tata’s heart. Even after Naidu moved to the U.S. for his MBA, their bond remained strong, with Tata attending his graduation. Upon returning, Naidu became Tata’s assistant, further deepening their partnership.
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