Mumbai, Oct 10: Ratan Tata, the visionary former chairman of Tata Sons, who transformed the Tata Group into a global conglomerate, passed away on Wednesday night at the age of 86. His demise marks the end of an era for Indian industry, with Tata remembered for his ethical leadership, philanthropy, and contributions to the nation’s business landscape.
In a statement, Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran expressed his deep sorrow, saying, “It is with a profound sense of loss that we bid farewell to Mr. Ratan Naval Tata, a truly uncommon leader whose immeasurable contributions have shaped not only the Tata Group but also the very fabric of our nation.” Chandrasekaran described Tata as a mentor and guide, whose legacy of excellence, integrity, and innovation inspired many.
Ratan Tata, who served as chairman from 1991 to 2012, led the Tata Group through significant global expansions, including high-profile acquisitions. Even after stepping down, he continued as Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons, Tata Industries, Tata Motors, Tata Steel, and Tata Chemicals. He also played a crucial role in overseeing Tata Trusts, a key force in Indian philanthropy.
In honor of Tata’s contributions, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced that his last rites would be performed with full state honors. “All the programs of the state government in Mumbai have been cancelled for tomorrow, due to the death of industrialist Ratan Tata,” Maharashtra Minister Deepak Kesarkar said while speaking to reporters in Mumbai. Tata’s body will lie in state at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) in Mumbai from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday for the public to pay their respects.
Ratan Tata’s philanthropic efforts have left a lasting impact on Indian society, with major contributions in education, healthcare, and animal welfare. His humility and dedication to the greater good earned him widespread admiration.
Tributes poured in from across the business and political spectrum. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani, and industrialist Harsh Goenka were among those who praised Tata’s leadership, integrity, and legacy. Adani remarked that “legends like Mr. Ratan Tata never fade away,” while Goenka referred to him as “a beacon of integrity, ethical leadership, and philanthropy.”
Ratan Tata, born on December 28, 1937, into the illustrious Tata family, studied architecture at Cornell University and later completed a management program at Harvard Business School. Under his leadership, the Tata Group became a global entity, with notable ventures like Tata Consultancy Services going public in 2004 and the launch of Tata Teleservices in 1996.
His leadership extended beyond the Tata Group, as he served on the international advisory boards of JP Morgan Chase and Mitsubishi Corporation. Known for his humility and personal interests in philanthropy and animal welfare, Ratan Tata was revered for his ethical approach to business and compassionate leadership.
He was admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital earlier this week for age-related ailments and was transferred to the ICU on Wednesday.
Ratan Tata’s extraordinary legacy as an industrialist, philanthropist, and leader will continue to inspire generations. His passing is a great loss to India and the world of business.
