Ratan Tata, who became chairman of the $100 billion steel-to-software conglomerate in 1991 and led the group founded by his great-grandfather until 2012, has passed away at the age of 86. Earlier this week, the industrialist addressed rumors about his health, stating on social media that he was undergoing routine medical checks due to his age.
Tata Sons’ Chairman, N Chandrasekaran, shared the news of Mr. Tata’s passing late on Wednesday, praising his dedication to excellence, integrity, and innovation. “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,” said Mr. Chandrasekaran. He described Mr. Tata as not just a chairman but also a mentor, guide, and friend, noting how his leadership expanded Tata Group’s global reach while staying true to its values.
Chandrasekaran also highlighted Mr. Tata’s significant philanthropic work, noting, “from education to healthcare, his initiatives have left a deep-rooted mark that will benefit generations to come.”
Tributes poured in from across industries and beyond. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Mr. Tata as “a visionary business leader, a compassionate soul, and an extraordinary human being.” He added, “Shri Ratan Tata Ji provided stable leadership to one of India’s most prestigious business houses, but his contribution went far beyond the boardroom. His humility, kindness, and commitment to improving society endeared him to many.”
Rahul Gandhi shared, “Ratan Tata was a man with vision. He has left a lasting mark on both business and philanthropy. My condolences to his family and the Tata community.”
Gautam Adani praised Mr. Tata, saying, “India has lost a giant, a visionary who redefined modern India’s path. Ratan Tata embodied the spirit of India with integrity and compassion. Legends like him never fade away. Om Shanti.”
Anand Mahindra expressed disbelief at Mr. Tata’s passing, stating, “I am unable to accept the absence of Ratan Tata. His mentorship and guidance would have been invaluable as India stands on the cusp of a historic leap forward. He was a businessman for whom financial success was most useful when it served the global community.”
Mukesh Ambani called Mr. Tata one of India’s most illustrious and kind-hearted sons, saying, “Ratan Tata’s passing is a big loss, not just to the Tata Group, but to every Indian. On a personal level, I have lost a dear friend, and his character and values deeply enhanced my respect for him.”
Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, founder of Biocon Limited, shared a nostalgic photo remembering Mr. Tata, while Google CEO Sundar Pichai acknowledged his contributions, saying, “He leaves an extraordinary business and philanthropic legacy. He deeply cared about making India better.”
Ratan Tata became chairman of the Tata Group in 1991 and led the conglomerate until 2012. He founded Tata Teleservices in 1996 and took Tata Consultancy Services public in 2004. Under his leadership, the group acquired British brands Jaguar and Land Rover, symbolizing a significant role reversal as an Indian company took over iconic Western brands.
In 2009, Mr. Tata fulfilled his promise to produce the world’s cheapest car for the middle class, launching the Tata Nano at ₹ 1 lakh, symbolizing innovation and affordability.
Mr. Tata was twice the chairman of the Tata Group, first from 1991 to 2012, and briefly again from 2016 to 2017. While he stepped back from daily operations, he continued to head its charitable trusts. His influence extended beyond the boardroom, particularly through his social media presence, where he shared posts on animal rights and Indian citizens’ welfare.
Ratan Tata’s popularity on social media endured, with over 13 million followers on X and nearly 10 million on Instagram, making him India’s ‘most followed entrepreneur’ according to the 360 ONE Wealth Hurun India Rich List 2023.
Early Life and Honours
Born in 1937, Ratan Tata was raised by his grandmother, Navajbai Tata, after his parents’ separation in 1948. He studied architecture at Cornell University and pursued a management course at Harvard. Although a bachelor, Mr. Tata mentioned coming close to marriage four times, sharing that he once fell in love while working in Los Angeles, but circumstances prevented the relationship from progressing.
In 2000, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan, followed by the Padma Vibhushan in 2008, India’s second-highest civilian honor.
Pallonji Shapoorji Mistry, another Parsee businessman, is the largest shareholder in Tata Group, with an 18% stake. Noel Tata, Ratan Tata’s half-brother, is Pallonji’s son-in-law.
