Industrialist and philanthropist Ratan Tata, chairman Emeritus of the Tata Group, was honoured with the prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2021 on Monday.

The award ceremony was held at his residence in Mumbai, marking a significant recognition of his commitment to social development and exemplary corporate leadership.

“The ceremony was attended by Tata Group chairman N. Chandrasekaran and three-time Grammy Award winner Ricky Kej, among others. The award was presented by the Founder of KIIT and KISS Achyuta Samanta. Due to health reasons, Tata has been avoiding public appearances, leading to the private arrangement of the ceremony at his home,” said a release issued by KISS (Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences).

Ratan Tata agreed to accept this award following a personal request from Samanta, recognising the importance of the KISS humanitarian honour. The award was announced in 2021, but Tata was unable to receive the award then because of the Covid pandemic.

In his acceptance, Tata expressed his gratitude towards KISS and its founder. “I am extremely happy to receive this honour. This is the most significant moment of my life,” he remarked. “Ratan Tata is a revered name in India, and he is truly a good person. Being able to honour him today with this award is a privilege for us,” said Samanta.

Initiated in 2008 by Achyuta Samanta, the KISS Humanitarian Award is the highest honour of KIIT and KISS dedicated to recognising individuals and organisations that embody the spirit of humanitar an work worldwide.