the story so far
Our Story
Established in 1928
the story so far
The Sir Ratan Tata Institute was established in 1928 by Lady Navajbai Tata and the Stri Zarthosti Mandal as a tribute to her philanthropist husband, Sir Ratan Tata, the second son of the Tata group Founder Jamshedji Tata and the Stri Zarthostri Mandal, an organisation founded in 1903 dedicated to empowering women by providing them training and employment opportunities.
In 1937, Lady Navajbai furthered her philanthropic efforts by donating an additional building on Hughes Road. This expansion facilitated the integration of new embroidery machines, weaving departments, and a confectionery division, enhancing the institute’s capacity to empower women.
The RTI initiated various activities, including cooking, tailoring, embroidery, and Montessori teacher training units, all of which continue to thrive today.
Over the years, the RTI has evolved, expanding to seven locations across Mumbai to meet growing demand. In July 2022, the institute introduced a Gourmet menu, diversifying its offerings.
Furthermore, the reopening of ‘The Landmark,’ a multi-purpose venue, provides a unique space for various events.
The core mission of the institute is to offer employment opportunities for underprivileged women, instilling in them a sense of dignity, self-reliance, and respect within society. Even as staff members reach retirement age, the RTI continues to provide them with suitable work, promoting financial independence during their golden years. The institute’s success is evident in the positive impact it has had on numerous lives, thanks to the unwavering support of its loyal customers and well-wishers. Through fostering self-confidence, financial security, and social well-being, the RTI has made a significant difference for individuals who might otherwise have been deprived of employment opportunities.
Rati Patwa and Maneck Pithawalla from the catering division and Dolat Todiwalla from the embroidery section are our oldest serving members. They joined RTI as young trainees staying at the hostel, and today as grandmothers, they enjoy their roles at RTI with enthusiasm and love.
The RTI has now become a Parsi institution, providing Parsi food and clothing to people across Mumbai for almost a century. With the support of our loyal customers, and hardworking staff, we hope to continue with the work that we’re doing, introducing new products and innovating forward, whilst still always embodying the Parsi mentality of “Humata, Hukhta, Hvarshta”- “Good thoughts, Good words, Good deeds”.
The team.
Key people