“Amitabh, can I borrow some money from you?”: Amitabh Bachchan Remembers Ratan Tata on Kaun Banega Crorepati 16
"Amitabh, can I borrow some money from you?": Amitabh Bachchan Remembers Ratan Tata on Kaun Banega Crorepati 16
Amitabh Bachchan recently shared heartfelt memories of Ratan Tata on the latest episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati Season 16, following the iconic businessman’s passing on October 9, 2024.
In a promotional clip featuring guests Boman Irani and Farah Khan, Bachchan reflected on their time together, recalling a memorable flight to London.
Bachchan reminisced about how both he and Tata were on the same flight and, upon arriving at Heathrow, Ratan Tata found himself in an unexpected predicament when his arranged pick-up did not arrive. “I saw him standing there, and he went to a phone booth to make a call,” Bachchan recounted. Demonstrating Tata’s humility, he shared, “A short while later, he came up to me and asked, ‘Amitabh, can I borrow some money from you? I don’t have money to make a phone call!’” This simple yet touching moment left a lasting impression on Bachchan.
In another story, he recalled a friend who attended an event with Tata, during which Ratan Tata asked for a ride home, stating, “Can you drop me home? I just live behind your house.” Bachchan found it remarkable that a man of Tata’s stature would admit, “I don’t have a car” , a testament to his down-to-earth nature.
Amitabh and Ratan Tata shared a professional connection as well; Tata Infomedia Ltd produced Aetbaar, a film starring Bachchan. However, the film did not perform well at the box office, leading to a reported loss of around ₹3.5 crore for the Tata group and their subsequent exit from the movie business.
Ratan Tata’s funeral, held on October 11, 2024, in Mumbai, was attended by many notable figures, including Sachin Tendulkar, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Mukesh Ambani. In his tribute, Bachchan expressed his sorrow on social media, writing, “An era has ended—a most respected, humble yet visionary leader of immense foresight and resolve. My prayers.”
These anecdotes highlight not only Ratan Tata’s significant impact on India but also his humble and approachable personality, cherished by those who knew him.
