Ratan Tata, Indian industry’s titan, visionary, and philanthropist, dies at 86

Ratan Tata, chairman emeritus of one of India’s biggest conglomerates, Tata Sons, a visionary industrialist and philanthropist, passed away at the age of 86 on Wednesday (Oct 9). He was admitted to the intensive care of the Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai early in the evening. 

“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,” N Chandrasekaran, chairman of Tata Group said in a statement. 

“On behalf of the entire Tata family, I extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones. His legacy will continue to inspire us as we strive to uphold the principles he so passionately championed,” he added.

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed shock at the passing of Tata and shared his condolences. 

“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,” posted Singh. 

Harsh Goenka, chairman of RPG Enterprises took to X (formerly Twitter) to mourn the loss of a titan of the Indian business industry. 

“The clock has stopped ticking. The Titan passes away. #RatanTata was a beacon of integrity, ethical leadership and philanthropy, who has imprinted an indelible mark on the world of business and beyond. He will forever soar high in our memories,” posted Goenka. 

Tata’s death comes a couple of days after he rubbished rumours regarding his health, stating that he was undergoing routine medical investigations due to his age and related medical conditions.

“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,” Tata posted on X. 

“There is no cause for concern. I remain in good spirits and request that the public and media respect refrain from spreading misinformation,” he added. 

Tata became chairman of the autos-to-steel conglomerate in 1991 and ran the group founded by his great-grandfather more than a hundred years ago until 2012.

He founded the telecommunications company Tata Teleservices in 1996 and took the IT company Tata Consultancy Services public in 2004.

After stepping down, he was conferred with the title of chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, Tata Industries, Tata Motors, Tata Steel and Tata Chemicals, the company website says.