Ratan Tata had retired as chairman of Tata Sons in 2012. He played an important role in transforming the Tata Group into a global behemoth focusing on steel, automobiles, IT, and much more.
Published Oct 10, 2024 | 12:18 AM ⚊ Updated Oct 10, 2024 | 4:18 PM
Ratan Naval Tata passes away aged 86
Ratan Naval Tata, Chairman Emeritus of the Tata Group, passed away at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital on Wednesday, 9 October.
— Tata Group (@TataCompanies) October 9, 2024
“It is with 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,” read a statement from N Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons.
Ratan was on life support and in a critical condition earlier in the day. Even as prayers poured in for his speedy recovery, the news of his demise left a nation in mourning.
I am unable to accept the absence of Ratan Tata.
India’s economy stands on the cusp of a historic leap forward.
And Ratan’s life and work have had much to do with our being in this position.Hence, his mentorship and guidance at this point in time would have been invaluable.… pic.twitter.com/ujJC2ehTTs
— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) October 9, 2024
On October 7, a post on X under his handle had said, “I am aware of recent rumours circulating regarding my health and want to assure everyone that these claims are unfounded. I am currently undergoing medical check-ups due to my age and related medical conditions.” The post signed by Mr. Tata also added, “There is no cause for concern. I remain in good spirits and request that the public and media respect refrain from spreading misinformation.”
86-year-old Ratan Tata had retired as chairman of Tata Sons in 2012. He played an important role in transforming the Tata Group into a global behemoth focusing on steel, automobiles, IT, and much more.
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. May his soul rest in peace.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) October 9, 2024
He has also been honoured by the Government of India with the Padma Bhushan in 2000 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2008.
“There are a host of reasons why Ratan Naval Tata is worthy of admiration, none more so than for the way he has sailed through the high tide of his life as head of the Tata group: with grace and a quiet dignity all too rare in the tumult and cacophony that characterise the mostly grubby, sometimes noble intersection of business and life in today’s India,” reads a page dedicated to Ratan Naval Tata on the official website of Tata group.
Deeply saddened by the passing away of Thiru. #RatanTata, a true titan of Indian industry and a beacon of humility and compassion.
His visionary leadership not only shaped the Tata Group but also set a global benchmark for ethical business practices. His relentless dedication to… pic.twitter.com/4FFh60Ljbw
— M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) October 9, 2024
He took over as chairman of Tata Group in March 1991. More than 20 years, later he had changed the firm for the better. Under his leadership, that coincided with opening up of India’s economy with the LPG (Liberalisation, Privatisation and Globalisation) policy of the then government, Tata Group rose to new heights and diversified further.
In the sad demise of Shri Ratan Tata, India has lost an icon who blended corporate growth with nation building, and excellence with ethics. A recipient of Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan, he took forward the great Tata legacy and gave it a more impressive global presence. He…
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) October 9, 2024
Born in 1937, Ratan Tata studied at Cornell University and received his Bachelors’ degree in Architecture. He started as an assistant in Tata industries in 1962 and spent six months training at the Jamshedpur plant of Tata Engineering and locomotive company, now called Tata Motors.
A true innovator, a wonderful human, an inspiration to many, and a humble legend. Shri Ratan Tata’s passing leaves a void in the world of business, philanthropy, and humanity
Every time we look at THub, we will remember you sir
You live in all our hearts and you will be a… pic.twitter.com/antfpmipzI
— KTR (@KTRBRS) October 9, 2024
In 1963, he moved to Tata Iron and Steel Company and eventually became a technical officer in the engineering division in 1965. In 1969, he worked as the Tata group’s resident representative in Australia.
It was not until 1974 that he joined the board of Tata Sons as a director, after several stints within the company. It was after he became a Director at Tata Sons that he pursued Advance Management Program at Harvard Business School.
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… pic.twitter.com/p5NPcpBbBD
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 9, 2024
Between 1986 and 1989, Ratan Tata served as Chairman of Air India. A popular milestone in his professional life came when Tata Nano was launched in 2008 – the same year that he received the Padma Vibhushan. In December 2021, Ratan Tata stepped down as Chairman of Tata Sons after 50 years with the group.
(Edited by SF Desk)
