11/07/2026
Did you know India's first woman tennis Olympian played in a traditional saree? Lady Meherbai Tata's inspiring journey is a story of talent, courage, and quiet determination that still deserves to be remembered.
In 1924, Lady Meherbai Tata represented India in the mixed doubles tennis event at the Paris Olympics alongside her husband, Sir Dorabji Tata. She was already a highly respected player, having won more than 60 local tennis titles and a Triple Crown at the Western India Tennis Tournament. During her matches, she proudly wore a simple white Parsi saree, showing that she could compete at the highest level while staying connected to her culture.
Her achievements were not limited to sports. The same year, Tata Steel faced serious financial difficulties. To support the company and help ensure workers could continue receiving their salaries, Lady Meherbai offered her personal jewellery, including the famous 245-carat Jubilee Diamond, as security for a major loan.
Her generosity left a lasting impact. After her passing, the sale of the Jubilee Diamond helped establish the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust. The trust later supported important institutions, including Tata Memorial Hospital and the Tata Institute of Social Sciences.
Lady Meherbai Tata's story reminds us that true greatness is not only measured by records and medals but also by the lasting difference one person can make in the lives of others.