(Photo : Tata Group)
Ratan Tata

• Ratan Tata, the late Indian industrialist, once humorously critiqued Hindi movies for their violent content.
• Tata's comment about the 'catchup spread' in Hindi movies was a light-hearted observation about the exaggerated elements often seen in these films.
• The Indian film industry, which Tata had once humorously critiqued, joined in paying tribute to him after his demise.
• This anecdote about Tata's views on Hindi movies offers a glimpse into his personal life and preferences, adding a personal touch to the many memories of him.

In a fascinating revelation from the past, the late Ratan Tata, a renowned Indian industrialist, philanthropist, and former chairman of the Tata Group, had once humorously critiqued Hindi movies for their violent content. This statement was made during an extensive interview with Simi Garewal, a prominent Indian talk show host. The conversation between Tata and Garewal was a comprehensive one, covering various aspects of Tata's life, including his early days, his tenure at the Tata Group, and his personal life.

Garewal, known for her insightful questions, asked Tata about his leisure activities. Tata responded that for the past decade or so, his unwinding routine primarily involved taking his dog for a run and seeking a change of scenery. The conversation then veered towards Tata's preferences in music. He expressed his fondness for all kinds of music, including jazz and classical.

Tata's Views on Television and Hindi Movies

When asked about his television viewing habits, Tata admitted to watching quite a bit of television lately. Garewal then inquired if he watched Hindi movies, to which Tata responded, "You can't help but see them on television today." He added that his exposure to Hindi movies had improved his command over the language. However, he didn't shy away from expressing his critique of Hindi movies. He humorously remarked, "They are also violent. I think there is more catchup spread in Hindi movies than there is in all restaurants of Bombay."

This statement can be interpreted as Tata's light-hearted observation about the exaggerated or over-the-top elements often seen in Hindi films, possibly referring to the action or dramatic scenes. Ratan Tata, who breathed his last on October 9, 2024, at the age of 86, was a towering figure in the Indian industrial landscape. His demise was mourned not just by India but by the world at large.

Film Industry's Tribute to Tata

The Indian film industry, which Tata had once humorously critiqued, joined in paying tribute to the chairman emeritus of the Tata Group. Actors, directors, producers, musicians, and other celebrities across the industry expressed their condolences and shared cherished memories of the visionary leader.

This incident brings to mind similar instances where prominent figures have expressed their views on the film industry. For instance, Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple Inc., once remarked that the problem with the film industry is that "it's all about who you know, and it's all about the amount of control you have." He believed that the industry was not a place where quality necessarily triumphed.

In another instance, Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, Inc., has also been known to express his views on movies.