When Shantanu Naidu’s Midnight Birthday Surprise Left Ratan Tata 'Awkward' But Smiling

Ratan Tata’s bond with his young assistant, Shantanu Naidu, was one of deep friendship, mentorship and mutual respect. As the nation mourns the loss of the veteran industrialist, the impact is especially profound for Shantanu, who lovingly referred to Tata as his “lighthouse." Their relationship spanned many years, with Ratan Tata playing a significant role in shaping Shantanu Naidu’s life. In his 2021 memoir, I Came Upon A Lighthouse: A Short Memoir of Life with Ratan Tata, Shantanu shared heartfelt stories that revealed the depth of their unspoken connection.

In an excerpt from his memoir, Shantanu Naidu recounted a memorable incident from Ratan Tata’s life, where Naidu organised a surprise birthday party for the Tata Sons chairman emeritus. The surprise left Tata feeling quite “awkward,"

Ratan Tata’s Midnight Birthday Party

Mentioning that the 86-year-old was an introvert and didn’t prefer bigger birthday celebrations, he recalled travelling with Ratan Tata for a wedding in Hyderabad, coinciding with his birthday on the same day.

A little before midnight, Naidu made arrangements for two small cupcakes and a candle for midnight. They were in the hotel room chatting with another of Tata’s “good friends" and a part of his flight crew when the celebration took place. Around 11:45 PM, they revealed about the midnight celebration and found Ratan Tata even more “awkward" when the cupcakes were brought in. He also mentioned how the late industrialist requested they not sing the birthday song; however, they refused.

The story might be a very small insight into Ratan Tata’s extraordinary life but sheds adequate light on the bond that he shared with Shantanu Naidu.

Ratan Tata’s Demise

On Wednesday, October 9, Ratan Tata, the chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, passed away at the age of 86. He was admitted to a Mumbai hospital and was in critical condition due to health-related issues.

Following his demise, a wave of grief took over the country, with everyone paying their tributes across social media platforms. From his thousands of supporters to prominent business leaders, politicians and celebrities, many visited the centre to pay their last respects before the cremation.

Throughout the day, his assistant, Shantanu Naidu, was also seen among the sea of visitors. He led the front on a bike when the industrialist’s mortal remains were being taken to the NCPA. Later, he also shared a LinkedIn post, penning an emotional note for Tata.