Business tycoon Ratan Tata turned 86 today. He was born on December 28, 1937 in Mumbai to Naval Tata and Sooni Tata. The industrialist, entrepreneur and Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons is known for his philanthropic activities at national and international levels.

Ratan Tata was awarded two of India's highest civilian honors – the Padma Vibhushan (2008) and the Padma Bhushan (2000) for his immense contributions to nation-building.

Happy birthday, Ratan Tata! 10 inspirational quotes from the business tycoon

1) “Ups and downs in life are very important to keep us going because even a straight line on ECG means we are not alive.”

2) “One day you will realize that material things mean nothing. All that matters is the well-being of the people you love.”

3) “The best leaders are those who are most interested in surrounding themselves with assistants and employees who are smarter than themselves.”

4) “I don’t believe in work-life balance. I believe in work-life integration. Make your work and your life meaningful and fulfilling and they will complement each other.”

Also Read: 10 Unknown Facts About Ratan Tata

5) “The biggest risk is not taking risks. In a world that is changing rapidly, the only strategy guaranteed to fail is not taking risks.”

6) “Be persistent and resilient in the face of challenges, for they are the building blocks of success.”

7) “Never underestimate the power of kindness, empathy and compassion when dealing with others.”

8) “You may not always have a comfortable life and may not always be able to solve all the world's problems, but never underestimate the importance you can have, because history has shown us that courage is contagious can hope can develop a life of its own.

9) “Leadership is about taking responsibility, not making excuses.”

10) “Don’t wait for opportunities to come your way, create your own opportunities.”