Mumbai: Ratan Tata, the revered industrialist and chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 86. Known for his immense contributions to Indian industry, Tata breathed his last at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai after a prolonged illness.
N Chandrasekaran, chairman of Tata Sons, confirmed the news, calling Tata a “friend, mentor, and guide.” Chandrasekaran added, “It is with a profound sense of loss that we bid farewell to Mr. Ratan Naval Tata, a truly uncommon leader whose immeasurable contributions shaped not only the Tata Group but also the very fabric of our nation.”
Ratan Tata had been hospitalised earlier in October for age-related medical conditions. His death marks the end of an era in Indian industry, as Tata was instrumental in expanding the Tata Group into a global powerhouse during his tenure as chairman from 1991 to 2012.
Known for his integrity, humility, and philanthropic work, Tata leaves behind a lasting legacy. Under his leadership, the Tata Group made landmark acquisitions, including Tetley Tea, Corus Steel, and Jaguar Land Rover, growing the conglomerate’s revenues from ₹10,000 crore in 1991 to over $100 billion in 2011-12.
Tributes poured in from across the nation, with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh calling Tata a “Titan of Indian industry” and praising his monumental contributions to the country’s economy.
Ratan Tata was also a recipient of the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award, in recognition of his services to trade and industry.