When Ratan Tata Asked Big B for Pocket Change at Heathrow—Legends, Just Being Human

In a poignant tribute during Kaun Banega Crorepati Season 16, Amitabh Bachchan reminisced about a rare glimpse into the humility of the departed Ratan Tata. The corporate magnate, whose visionary vision and humility were the stuff of legend, had taken a loan from Bachchan at Heathrow Airport, London—a moment that has now become emblematic of Tata's humility.

Key Highlights

The incident happened following a flight to London, when Tata was left alone with his aides and had to make a call

Spotting a public telephone booth in the vicinity, he went to Bachchan and requested him to advance him money to make the call, confessing he had no change

Bachchan, visibly moved as he recited the tale, described Tata as a man of understated dignity and modesty

Personal Bond

The two had a cordial relationship both at personal and professional levels

Tata Infomedia Ltd, a company of Tata Group, funded Bachchan's 2004 film Aetbaar, though it failed commercially

Bachchan also recalled one time when Tata offered his friend a ride home, saying that he didn't own a car

Legacy Reflections

After Tata died on October 9, 2024, Bachchan posted a tribute on social media, referring to him as an icon of a visionary leader and a national pride

The tales narrated on KBC again earned Tata's personality public accolades, reminding everyone that greatness indeed walks softly

Sources: Times of India, Filmfare, Business Standard, Economic Times, Times Now News, MSN India