Many canines, both strays and pets, Mumbai, lost 'Their Master's Voice' in the death of veteran industrialist Ratan Naval Tata, a compassionate man who set up a Small Animal Hospital at Mahalaxmi in south-central Mumbai early this year.

Businessman and columnist Suhel Seth, who had known Ratan Tata, recalled how the industrialist had declined an invitation by King Charles (then Prince Charles) to go to Buckingham Palace to receive a lifetime achievement award because one of his pet dogs was unwell.

 "Tata, whose love for dogs is well-known, Ratan Tata was to be felicitated at the Buckingham Palace for his unmatched philanthropy," Seth said. 

 "However, at the very last moment, his pet dog took ill. He immediately called Prince Charles and conveyed his regrets as he couldn't leave his ailing dog alone. This highlights what a remarkable human being he was," he said.

 Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray, who had an excellent rapport with Ratan Tata, shared a common thread of their love for dogs with the latter, said "stray dogs were welcomed on all Tata Group  premises -- be it the Taj Mahal Hotel or Bombay House, the headquarters of Tata Sons. In fact, there is a kennel  at the Bombay House  to take care of Tata's canine friends."

 Mourning the death of Ratan Tata, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India Vice President Sachin Bangera said: "Ratan ji's love for animals and compassion was as famous as his business prowess and will always be remembered. His influence on the community, inspiring many to care for community dogs, and to open their hearts and homes to them, is a testament to his enduring legacy".

 Before he passed away, Ratan Tata realised his dream of building an animal hospital for pets in Mumbai. A first of its kind hospital spread over 98,000 sq ft, across 5 floors with a capacity of over 200 beds, the Small Animal Hospital at Mahalaxmi in the heart of Mumbai. The hospital was inaugurated in March 2024.