What are the lesser known facts about J.R.D. Tata?

 

• JRD Tata was born in france to a french mother and an Indian father
• He spent his entire childhood in france and occasionally visited Bombay (currently Mumbai) - where his father worked.
• He was drafted in french army in Sipahi regiment and as he was a bilingual - french and english speaking-he served as a private secretary to colonel of regiment.
• He was miraculously saved by fate as just after his tenure; his entire regiment was perished in an expedition.
• His father called him back to India and made him join House of Tatas as an apprentice.
• Nevertheless , he soon learnt ropes and was trained in different departments -factories to shop floors to corporate offices.
• As flying was his passion , he often took a solo sortie ! Indian air force made him honorary group captain; then promoted him as air commodore and later Air Vice Marshal - a rare honor !
• JRD Tata was man behind AIR India- the national carrier. Well, then it was known as Tata Airlines launched in 1932 before government nationalised it.
• JRD Tata was known for his humanity and philanthropy. He started a TATA trust for various charitable acts - medical, educational support.
• He was a rare business tycoon; who was awarded Padma Vibhushan ( India’s second highest civilian award in the Republic of India ) & Bharat Ratna ( India’s highest civilian award in the Republic of India ) for his contributions and service to the nation. He also received The National Order of the Legion of Honour (Ordre national de la Légion d'honneur) from France.
• Pic credit : Google (JRD Tata with his wife Thelma Vicaji Tata)
• Note: Kindly read and appreciate with open mind and soul !