Ratan Tata Replied To This Founder's Email Within Hours, But What Happened Next Became Her Biggest Regret

A Boston-based Indian entrepreneur has opened up about a missed opportunity to meet Ratan Tata despite receiving a personal email response and a follow-up call from his office.

Sneha Biswas, founder and CEO of a US-based school, recently recounted the experience in a LinkedIn post that has since resonated with thousands online. Sharing a screenshot of an email she received from Ratan Tata in 2020 while she was interning at Tata Steel, Biswas reflected on what she described as one of her biggest regrets. “Some regrets stay with you forever,” she wrote while posting the exchange.

In the email, Tata acknowledged her request to meet him and responded with a message that left a lasting impression. He wrote that he had noted her request and would “endeavour

to meet” her. He also took the opportunity to wish her success in her future pursuits.

For Biswas, however, the significance of the interaction extended far beyond the words themselves. She said she was deeply moved by the fact that a leader of Tata’s stature took the time to personally read and respond to an intern.

“The fact that he was genuinely so so kind as a leader that he took the time to read AND to reply to my email. To an intern. He need not. Many leaders one third his age act so snobbish that they don’t care responding to anyone!” she wrote.

She further noted that Tata was 82 years old at the time, making the gesture even more remarkable in her eyes. According to Biswas, despite the countless messages he likely received every day, he still made an effort to engage because he genuinely cared about people.

What makes the memory bittersweet is what happened next. Biswas revealed that she later received a call from Tata’s office informing her that he wanted to meet her and asking for a convenient date. Unfortunately, she was scheduled to fly back to Boston on the same day.

Believing there would be another opportunity in the future, she decided not to alter her plans. “I thought no worries, next time,” she recalled. “But there was no next time.”

Over the years that followed, Biswas remained in the United States and became immersed in building her entrepreneurial venture. Before another meeting could happen, Tata passed away, leaving her with a lingering sense of regret.

Reflecting on the experience, she said the email remains a valuable lesson in leadership. She hopes that if she ever achieves similar success, she will carry forward the same humility, warmth and authenticity that Tata demonstrated, not only toward colleagues and peers but also toward complete strangers.

The post quickly gained attention online, with many users sharing their own admiration for Tata’s character and legacy.

“ATA – It built us , our family all. Born at Tata hospital initially raised at Jamshedpur can match the vibe . My father still proudly flaunt his Employee ID 1904 which match with JRD birth year,” said one user.

“Wholesome!! Ratan sir’s simplicity & humbleness is just beyond words!!” commented another.

Recalling a personal memory, a third user wrote, “A long time back, in a restaurant in Roppongi, I came across a book on JRD’s letters. Exquisite penmanship, impeccable grammar but what really sticks in my mind is the warmth and affection that came through. People like that are rare.”

Another commenter highlighted the importance of reaching out and making connections, saying, “A quite reminder that a simple mail can open doors for invaluable opportunities. An insightful post about how remarkable leader RnT was, Sneha Biswas!”

One user praised the entrepreneur for sharing the story, writing, “Thank you Sneha Biswas for sharing this beautiful piece of his legacy. It’s an incredible story and a powerful reminder that the most successful leaders are often the most humble. True leadership isn’t just about achieving greatness—it’s about leaving the door open for others to grow and succeed as well.”

Another reflected on the Tata Group’s broader impact, stating, “Tata Group:A Legacy of Nation Building and Humble Leadership. Although I have never worked with the Tata Group, the insights I’ve gained from various books and its remarkable contribution to nation-building have left a lasting impression on my heart.”