New Delhi: ‘A man who had the courage to speak truth to those in power’ – former prime minister Manmohan Singh’s short but touching epitaph on industrialist and philanthropist Ratan Tata, who died at the age of 86.
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In an emotional letter to Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran, the Congress stalwart said he was “deeply saddened” by the news and condoled the demise of a “doyen of Indian industry”.
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Ratan Tata was more than a business icon, the former prime minister said, a sentiment that echoes the thoughts of 1.45 billion Indians gathered in mourning today.
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“He was much more than a business icon… His vision and humanity were demonstrated in the work of the many charitable institutions he founded and nurtured during his life. And he had the courage to speak truth to those in power,” Manmohan Singh – dubbed the ‘silent prime minister’ by critics – wrote.
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“I have fond memories of working closely with him on many occasions (and) I take this opportunity to offer my deepest condolences… May his soul rest in peace.”
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Ratan Tata’s death has been mourned by industrialists, various political leaders and the entire nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the Padma Vibhushan winner as “a visionary business leader, a kind soul and an extraordinary human being”.
“He provided steady leadership to one of India’s oldest and most prestigious business houses. At the same time, his contributions extended beyond the boardroom. He endeared himself to many because of his humility, kindness and unwavering commitment to improving our society.”
Mr Tata – the two-time chairman of Tata Sons, the parent company of corporate giant Tata Group – died after a prolonged illness. He was rushed to hospital on Monday but denied being unwell.
In a typically modest and humble post on social media, Mr Tata thanked his supporters and said he was undergoing routine medical tests. “Thank you for thinking of me…” he said.
And today the country’s, and indeed global, business leaders are doing just that.
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