Ratan Tata, the chairman emeritus of the Tata Group, died on Wednesday at the age of 86. Just a couple of days ago, Ratan Tata had dismissed speculation surrounding his health and said he was undergoing routine medical check-ups due to his age.
In a statement, Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran expressed condolences over Ratan Tata's death and called him a "truly uncommon leader whose immeasurable contributions have shaped not only the Tata Group, but also the very fabric of our nation."
"For the Tata Group, Mr. Tata was more than a chairperson. To 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 stewardship expanded its global footprint while always remaining true to its moral compass," he added.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Ratan Tata, calling him "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 an unwavering commitment to making our society better," PM Modi said.
Rahul Gandhi said: "Ratan Tata was a man with a vision. He has left a lasting mark on both business and philanthropy. My condolences to his family and the Tata community."
Hailing the industry giant, Gautam Adani said "legends like him never fade away".
"India has lost a giant, a visionary who redefined modern India's path. Ratan Tata wasn't just a business leader - he embodied the spirit of India with integrity, compassion and an unwavering commitment to the greater good. Legends like him never fade away. Om Shanti," posted Mr Adani.
Industrialist Anand Mahindra said he is "unable to accept the absence of Ratan Tata".
"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. With him gone, all we can do is to commit to emulating his example. Because he was a businessman for whom financial wealth and success was most useful when it was put to the service of the global community," said Mr Mahindra.
Architect of Tata Group's global expansion
The business tycoon had led the transformation of the Tata Group into a global powerhouse through several high-profile acquisitions.
After earning a degree in architecture from Cornell University, Ratan Tata returned to India in 1962 to join the company founded by his great-grandfather. Throughout his career, he contributed significantly to several Tata companies, including Tata Motors and Tata Steel. His leadership was particularly impactful in turning around National Radio & Electronics Company.
In 1991, Ratan Tata took over as chairman from his uncle JRD Tata, at a time when India was opening its economy to the world. One of his early actions as chairman was to implement reforms within the Tata Group, focusing on succession planning, bringing in younger talent, and tightening control over the businesses.
Ratan Tata’s legacy is marked by the group’s global expansion, including the acquisition of iconic international brands. Under his leadership, Tata acquired British tea company Tetley in 2000, Corus Steel in 2007, and Jaguar and Land Rover in 2008. His vision also extended to the development of Tata Motors’ Indica, the first Indian-designed car, and the Nano, a car intended to be the most affordable in the world.
