Pet Goa's final woof

In the end, Ratan Tata's legacy was not just the globally renowned conglomerate he built but also the love he nurtured, and the lives - both human and animal - that he touched.

In the quiet corners of Mumbai, the city said goodbye to one of its most respected figures-industrialist, philanthropist, and unwavering dog lover, Ratan Tata, who passed away at the age of 86. But amid the sea of mourners at the National Centre For Performing Arts (NCPA), one presence was particularly poignant: Tata's loyal companion, a dog named 'Goa'.

Goa wasn't just any dog. His journey into Ratan Tata's life was one of chance and destiny. During a trip to Goa years ago, Tata encountered a stray dog who took a liking to him, following him persistently. Seeing something special in those curious, trusting eyes, Tata decided to adopt the dog and bring him back to Mumbai. He named him Goa' as a reminder of their fateful meeting. Later, Goa, with his easy charm and gentle demeanour, quickly became a fixture in Tata's life, earning the affectionate title of "office companion."