In a moving moment that touched the hearts of many, Chairman Emeritus of the Tata Group, Ratan Tata’s beloved dog, Goa, said paid his last tribute to the legendary industrialist on October 10.

As mourners gathered to bid farewell to the business magnate on the lawns of the National Center for Performing Arts (NCPA) in Mumbai, one of the most emotional scenes was undoubtedly Goa’s presence, escorted to the venue to bid his final farewell .

Goa, a black dog with white paws and a white spot on his nostrils and forehead, was seen quietly standing next to Ratan Tata’s coffin which was draped in the tricolor.

The dog, wearing a red collar and wagging its tail incessantly, refused to leave Tata’s side and clung to the spot next to the coffin.

The poignant video of the grieving dog paying respects to his owner went viral on social media, with many wondering the story behind the dog’s rather unique name, ‘Goa’.

THE STORY OF GOA: MORE THAN JUST A DOG

Goa is not just a dog; he has a backstory that resonated The character and values ​​of Ratan Tata. During a trip to Goa years ago, a stray dog ​​started following him.

What might have been an ordinary encounter for most turned into something special for the kind-hearted industrialist. Deeply moved by the dog’s loyalty, Tata spontaneously decided to adopt him and bring him to Mumbai. He then named it Goa and gave him shelter at the Bombay House, the headquarters of the Tata Group.

The Goa caretaker recalled the deep bond between Ratan Tata and his pet.

‘Goa has been with us for eleven years’ news agency ANI quoted him as he said. “The guards brought this dog from Goa when we went there for a picnic. Ratan Tata loved him very much.”

Over the years, Tata had shared photos of himself with Goa and other dogs on social media.

CHOOSING ANIMALS OVER OBSERVATIONS

One of the most notable examples of Ratan Tata’s love for dogs was shared by his close friend, businessman Suhel Seth.

In 2018, Tata would receive a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the British Royal Family, an event hosted by King Charles III and then Prince Charles, in recognition of his outstanding philanthropic work.

However, despite initially confirming his presence, Tata made the difficult decision to stay home to care for his sick dog. ‘Tango and Tito, my dogs, one of them has become terribly ill. I can’t leave him and come,” the former Tata Group head told Seth, who was waiting for him in London.

When King Charles came to know the reason for Ratan Tata’s absence from the event, he couldn’t help but express his admiration for him.