Finance Minister P. Chidambaram on Friday compared Ratan Tata, Chairman Emeritus of Tata Group, with cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, for his fan following and charisma, while he presented him the CII President’s award.

“When I walked into the room I realised Tata is as big as Sachin," said the minister. Though Tata has lived the life of a frugal man, he has created wealth for millions of Indians. “He has drawn a line between ownership and control and control and management at the Tata group companies. Millions of shareholders own the companies and professionals manage them, which is a lesson for other Indian corporates.’’ Commenting on the personality of Ratan Tata, Chidambaram said:“Ratan is a man of few words, something which I can only envy being a lawyer and politician.” Ratan Tata is a passionate man, and that passion is reflected in the new car (Nano) and the latest airline venture, he added.

In his acceptance speech, Ratan Tata said: “It's been an exciting time for India and it's been a great privilege to be part of that excitement." He added that he was fortunate to be a part of India’s growth story, and that he looks forward to growth in the Indian economy.

rahul.wadke@thehindu.co.in