‘My parents received a letter thanking them when I joined’: Ex-Tata Cliq employees recall Ratan Tata’s company culture

How many companies value the contributions of not just the employees, but even their parents? Not many. But Tata Group is one such exception. Today, the nation mourns the loss of Ratan Tata, the much-loved Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons.

Known for his visionary leadership and kind heart, Ratan Tata played a key role in making the Tata Group a global name, while always staying true to his values of honesty and compassion. The legendary industrialist might no longer be with us, but his legacy, in form of Tata industries, lives on.

Some former Tata Cliq employees told Business Insider India in a candid chat how Ratan Tata’s legacy could be felt in the work culture. Even though these employees never had a chance to interact with the Tata Group chairman face to face, they could feel his values imbibed in the company.

One of these employees shared how her parents received a letter that thanked them for their efforts when she joined the company. Another former Tata Cliq employee said that she was ‘heartbroken’ when she came to know about Ratan Tata’s passing.

“My parents received a letter thanking them”

Bharti Chhikara, who worked with Tata Cliq as an Assistant Category Manager for over three years, says it was heartwarming when her parents received a letter from the company at the time of her joining.

“My parents received a letter from the CPO of Tata Cliq at that time, thanking them for their efforts and sacrifices in supporting me. It was an emotional moment for the entire family. This reflects the kind of culture that the organisation owned by Ratan Tata imbibes. The respect and consideration that Tata Group has for its employees is unmatchable,” she said.

Talking about how the loss of Ratan Tata feels personal, the ex-Tata Cliq employee added, “The news of Mr. Ratan Tata's passing feels like a deeply personal loss. Having had the privilege to work at a Tata company, I witnessed firsthand the incredible work culture and ethics he championed. His vision fostered an environment of respect, humility, and a deep sense of purpose, where doing good for society was just as important as driving business success. He will forever be remembered as an iconic leader who set the highest standards for leadership and humanity.”

“My team valued creativity and also upheld Ratan Tata’s principles”

Sreyashi Ghosh, who joined Tata Cliq in 2020 and worked there for two years as a copywriter, says that her team valued creativity and also focused on the principles that Ratan Tata championed.

She also said that getting to know about Ratan Tata’s death was “heartbreaking” and his leadership has “left an indelible mark on the Tata Group.”

“Working in such an environment, where integrity, transparency and community support are prioritised, was a rewarding experience. Ratan Tata’s legacy will continue to inspire us all, reminding us of the importance of doing business with a heart and a sense of responsibility,” she added.

“Ratan Tata inspired me, I carry his values”

Rachit Tandon, who worked at Tata Cliq for two years as a category manager, says that he was “deeply saddened” to hear about the industrialist’s demise. He added that Ratan Tata was a leader whose values inspired him. He proudly says that he will carry Tata’s values with him as he moves forward in his life.

He said, “During my time at Tata CLiQ, I experienced firsthand the remarkable work culture that reflects Ratan Tata's principles of integrity, respect, and innovation. It was a privilege to be part of an organisation that not only prioritises excellence but also cares deeply for its employees and communities. I am grateful for the opportunity to work within a framework that embodies Ratan Tata's legacy, and I will carry those values with me as I move forward. His impact will be felt for generations to come.”