Ratan Tata, Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons, Passes Away at 86 in Mumbai Hospital

Ratan Tata, Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons, Passes Away at 86 in Mumbai Hospital

Mumbai: Ratan Tata, one of India’s most respected industrialists and former chairman of Tata Sons, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 86. Tata, who was undergoing treatment at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai, had been in critical condition for the past few days. His death marks the end of an era for the Tata Group, which he led from 1991 to 2012, driving the conglomerate to unprecedented heights.

On Monday, Tata had addressed the public, stating that he was undergoing routine medical checkups due to age-related conditions and asked people not to worry about his health. In a statement, he assured, “My morale is high,” urging the media not to spread rumors.

Early Life and Career of a Visionary

Born on December 28, 1937, Ratan Tata was educated at Mumbai’s Cathedral and John Connon School before heading to Cornell University in the United States to study Architecture and Structural Engineering. He briefly worked in the U.S. before joining the family business in 1962. In 1981, he was appointed chairman of Tata Industries, and in 1991, he took over as chairman of Tata Sons after the retirement of JRD Tata.

Leading Tata to Global Heights

Under Ratan Tata’s leadership, the Tata Group grew into a global behemoth. Some of his key achievements included the acquisition of major foreign companies like Tetley, Jaguar Land Rover, and Corus. This expansion turned Tata into a household name globally, with the group becoming a dominant player in industries ranging from steel and automobiles to software and salt.

A Life Dedicated to Social Work

Beyond business, Ratan Tata was known for his philanthropic contributions. He chaired Tata Trusts, which focused on improving education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation across India. His humanitarian work earned him the Padma Vibhushan, one of India’s highest civilian honors.

A Nation Mourns

As news of his death spreads, tributes are pouring in from all corners of the country. Ratan Tata’s leadership, vision, and dedication to social causes have left an indelible mark on Indian industry and society. The nation mourns the loss of a true visionary, whose legacy will inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and philanthropists.

PM Modi Expresses Grief Over Ratan Tata’s Passing

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the death of Ratan Tata, the former chairman of Tata Sons. In a heartfelt message posted on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi shared his fond memories of interacting with Tata over the years. “My mind is filled with countless interactions with Shri Ratan Tata Ji. I would meet him frequently in Gujarat when I was the CM. We would exchange views on diverse issues. I found his perspectives very enriching. These interactions continued when I came to Delhi,” he wrote. The Prime Minister conveyed his pain over the loss, stating, “Extremely pained by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and admirers in this sad hour. Om Shanti.”

Ratan Tata’s legacy, as remembered by the Prime Minister, goes beyond business and reflects his contributions to nation-building and thought leadership across various fields.

N Chandrasekaran Mourns the Loss of Ratan Tata, Calls Him a Guide and Friend

N Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons, expressed profound grief over the passing of Ratan Tata, stating that the company and the nation have lost an extraordinary leader. In an official statement, Chandrasekaran said, “We are bidding farewell to Ratan Naval Tata with deep sorrow. His incredible contributions have shaped not only the Tata Group but also the fabric of our nation.”

Chandrasekaran shared a personal connection with Tata, describing him as “much more than a chairman” and referring to him as a guru, guide, and friend. “He always inspired me,” Chandrasekaran added, highlighting the immense influence Ratan Tata had on both his professional and personal life.