Mumbai, India (DT) – Ratan Tata, one of India’s most respected business icons and the former chairman of Tata Group, has passed away at the age of 86. The news of his death has sent shockwaves through India and the global business community, with tributes pouring in to honor the visionary leader who transformed India’s oldest conglomerate into a global powerhouse.
Under Ratan Tata’s leadership from 1991 to 2012, the Tata Group became one of India’s largest companies, with annual revenues exceeding $100 billion (£76.5 billion). Tata spearheaded the expansion of the conglomerate’s global footprint, acquiring major international brands like Jaguar Land Rover and Corus Steel, while also significantly contributing to India’s industrial growth and development.
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In a statement announcing Tata’s death, Natarajan Chandrasekaran, the current chairman of Tata Sons, described him as a “truly uncommon leader,” highlighting his unwavering commitment to ethical business practices and his role in shaping the Tata Group’s values.
Ratan Tata was not only a business leader but also a philanthropist, dedicating much of his life to social causes through the Tata Trusts, which he chaired. His work in areas such as healthcare, education, and rural development left a lasting impact on millions of lives in India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and business leaders from around the world expressed their condolences, praising Tata’s extraordinary contributions to Indian industry and his legacy as a global leader. “Ratan Tata was a beacon of leadership and kindness, shaping India’s future while staying deeply connected to its roots,” Modi said in a statement.
As India mourns the loss of one of its greatest industrialists, Ratan Tata’s legacy of innovation, leadership, and philanthropy will continue to inspire future generations.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on X, stating, “Shri Ratan Tata Ji was a visionary business leader, a compassionate soul, and an extraordinary human being. He provided stable leadership to one of India’s oldest and most prestigious business houses. At the same time, his contribution went far beyond the boardroom. He endeared himself to several people thanks to his humility, kindness, and unwavering commitment to making our society better.”