Former Tata Group chairman Ratan Tata, who led the Indian conglomerate to the global stage with several high-profile acquisitions, has died. Tata Group said in a statement late on Wednesday. He was 86.
Just two days ago, on Monday, the industrialist had denied rumours about his health in a social media post, with a message for his followers: “Thank you for thinking of me”.
“I am aware of the recent rumours about my health and would like to assure everyone that these claims are baseless. I am currently undergoing medical check-ups due to my age and related medical conditions. I am in good spirits…” Mr Tata had said in his social media post.
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In his last social media post, Tata, 86, had said, “I request the public and the media to refrain from spreading misinformation.” Announcing the demise, Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran lauded the industrialist’s unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity and innovation. “It is with great loss that we bid a final farewell to Shri Ratan Naval Tata, a truly exceptional leader whose incomparable contributions have shaped not just the Tata Group but also the fabric of our nation,” Mr Chandrasekaran said. “For the Tata Group, Mr Tata was more than a chairman. For me, he was a mentor, guide and friend. He inspired by example. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity and innovation, the Tata Group under his leadership expanded its global footprint while always staying true to its ethical norms,” he said. Mr Chandrasekaran underlined Mr Tata’s dedication to philanthropy, saying “From education to healthcare, his initiatives have left a deep mark, benefiting generations to come”.
As the news spread, tributes started pouring in from friends, fellow industrialists and film stars.
Mahindra Group chairman Anand Mahindra said they were unable to accept Tata’s absence and all that could be done now was to emulate his example.
Read | National icon Ratan Tata dies at 86
Industrialist Gautam Advan said “giants like him never fade away”.
RPG Enterprises chairman Harsh Goenka described the industrialist as an “epilogue of integrity”.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the industrialist as a “kind soul” and said he “provided steady leadership to one of India’s oldest business houses”.
“Shri Ratan Tata ji was 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 went far beyond the boardroom. He was loved by all,” the Prime Minister said in a series of posts on X.
Ratan Tata became chairman of the $100 billion steel-to-software conglomerate in 1991 and ran the group founded by his great-grandfather until 2012.
He founded telecom company Tata Teleservices in 1996 and took IT company Tata Consultancy Services public in 2004.
Long after retirement, Mr Tata remained a popular figure on social media, with heartfelt posts about animal rights (especially dogs) and appeals to Indian citizens.
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