The Real Story Behind Tata Sumo's Name

Did you know that Tata Group’s first multi-utility vehicle, the Tata Sumo, has nothing to do with Japanese heavyweight wrestlers? Instead, it was named in honor of Sumant Moolgaokar, the Managing Director of Tata Motors, who was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian honor, in 1990.

Sumant Moolgaokar: A Visionary Leader

Sumant Moolgaokar, often referred to as the architect of modern Tata Motors, held several key positions within the Tata Group. He was the CEO of Tata Engineering and Locomotive Company (TELCO), Vice-Chairman of Tata Steel, and also served as non-executive chairman of Maruti Suzuki.

There's a fascinating story about Moolgaokar's leadership style. Unlike his colleagues who would lunch together, Moolgaokar would often disappear during breaks. It was later discovered that he spent his lunch hours at a Highway Dhaba (a roadside restaurant), engaging with truck drivers to gain firsthand feedback on Tata vehicles. This direct interaction with end-users allowed him to understand their needs and relay this crucial information to the design and R&D teams at Tata Motors, ensuring continuous improvement.

Early Life and Career

Born on March 5, 1906, Moolgaokar held an engineering degree from London. He began his career in the cement industry before joining Tata Industries. Over the years, he held various prestigious roles, including Director at A.C.C. Cement and Tata Locomotive and Engineering, Vice-Chairman of Tata Steel, and Chairman of Tata Exports. He also led Tata Consulting Engineers and served as Director of the Heavy Engineering Corporation in Ranchi.

His expertise was recognized by the Indian government, which appointed him to several key positions, including membership in the Planning Commission’s National Planning Council and chairmanship of various technical committees. He was an honorary adviser to the Ministry of Economic and Defence Coordination and a member of the Indian Defence Delegation to Washington after the 1962 Sino-Indian War.

Contributions and Legacy

Moolgaokar was celebrated for his commitment to innovation and industrial growth. He received the Sir Walter Puckey Prize from the Institute of Production Engineers and was honored as an Honorary Fellow by the Imperial College of Science & Technology, London, and as an Honorary Life Member by the Indian Institute of Engineers.

He established the Engineering Research Centre and the Machine Tool and Press Tool Division to equip TELCO employees with advanced skills and technologies. His vision was to transform India into an industrial nation with cutting-edge technology and capable workforce. He believed in motivating young engineers to push boundaries and achieve excellence.

Tata Sumo: A Tribute to Moolgaokar

In recognition of his immense contributions, Tata Motors named its first multi-utility vehicle, the Tata Sumo, after Sumant Moolgaokar (Su for Sumant and Mo for Moolgaokar). This was a unique and fitting tribute in the corporate world, reflecting the profound impact he had on the company.

Sumant Moolgaokar passed away in July 1989, but his legacy continues to be celebrated. His death anniversary is observed by the management and staff at Bombay House, the headquarters of the Tata Group, as a testament to his lasting influence on the company and the Indian automotive industry.

Moolgaokar's dedication, innovative spirit, and leadership were instrumental in shaping the Tata Group's success, making the Tata Sumo not just a vehicle, but a symbol of his enduring legacy.