Adopted from Goa, named after it: Ratan Tata’s dog who sat beside his casket

In a touching moment that stirred the hearts of many, Tata Group’s chairman emeritus Ratan Tata’s beloved pet dog, Goa, paid his final tribute to the legendary industrialist on October 10.
As mourners gathered to bid farewell to the business tycoon at the lawns of the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) in Mumbai, one of the most emotional scenes was undoubtedly the presence of Goa, escorted to the venue to say his last goodbye.
Goa, a black dog with white paws and a white patch on its nostrils and forehead, was seen quietly sitting next to Ratan Tata’s casket which was draped in the Tricolour.
The dog, donning a red collar and wagging its tail incessantly, refused to leave Tata’s side, clinging to the spot next to the casket.

The poignant video of the bereaving dog paying respects to his owner went viral on social media, with many wondering about the story behind the dog’s rather unique name ‘Goa’.
Goa isn’t just any dog; he has a backstory that resonated with Ratan Tata’s character and values. During a trip to Goa years ago, a stray dog began to follow 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 made the spontaneous decision to adopt him, bringing him to Mumbai. He then named him Goa and gave him shelter at the Bombay House — head office of the Tata Group.
The caretaker of Goa recalled the deep bond between Ratan Tata and his pet.
“Goa has been with us for the last 11 years,” news agency ANI quoted him as saying. “The security guards brought this dog from Goa when we went there for a picnic. Ratan Tata loved him a lot.”
Over the years, Tata had shared pictures of himself with Goa and other dogs on social media.
One of the most remarkable examples of Ratan Tata’s love for dogs was shared by his close friend, businessman Suhel Seth.
In 2018, Tata was slated to receive a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the British Royal Family, an event organised by King Charles III, then Prince Charles, in recognition of his outstanding philanthropic work.
However, despite initially confirming his attendance, Tata made the difficult decision to stay home to care for his ailing dog. “Tango and Tito, my dogs—one of them has fallen terribly ill. I can’t leave him and come,” the former Tata Group chief told Seth, who was waiting for him in London.
When King Charles came to know the reason for Ratan Tata’s absence at the event, he couldn’t help but express his admiration for him.