Ratan Tata, the former chairman of Tata Sons and one of India’s most respected industrialists, passed away on Wednesday (October 9) at the age of 86. He was admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital, where he spent his final hours in intensive care.
In a statement, N. Chandrasekaran, the current chairman of Tata Group, expressed deep sorrow at the loss of Tata, acknowledging his profound influence on the company and the nation. “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 stated.
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also shared his grief, posting, “Saddened by the passing away of Shri Ratan Tata. He was a Titan of the Indian industry known for his monumental contributions to our economy, trade, and industry. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and admirers.”
Tata’s death follows recent rumors about his health, which he had addressed just days before, assuring the public that he was undergoing routine medical check-ups due to his age. He had posted on social media that there was no cause for concern.
A Legacy of Visionary Leadership and Ethical Business Practices
Ratan Tata became the chairman of Tata Sons in 1991, leading the autos-to-steel conglomerate until his retirement in 2012. During his tenure, he steered the company through massive global expansion, notably acquiring international brands such as Jaguar Land Rover and Corus Steel. Tata’s emphasis on ethical leadership and corporate social responsibility left an enduring impact on Indian industry.
Even after stepping down, he remained actively involved with the Tata Group, serving as chairman emeritus for several companies, including Tata Steel, Tata Motors, and Tata Chemicals.
Tributes from Across the Business Community
Business leaders across India mourned the passing of Ratan Tata. Harsh Goenka, chairman of RPG Enterprises, paid tribute by calling Tata a “beacon of integrity, ethical leadership, and philanthropy” and remarked that he had left an indelible mark on the world of business and beyond.
Ratan Tata’s vision and leadership transformed the Tata Group into a global conglomerate with diverse interests, including IT, automotive, steel, and telecommunications. His legacy will continue to shape the company’s future and inspire generations to come.
As the nation mourns the loss of an industrial titan, Ratan Tata’s contributions to India’s economic development and his values of leadership, integrity, and philanthropy will be remembered for decades to come.