Tata Sons Chairman Emeritus Rata Tata passes away at 86

Ratan Tata, (86) chairman emeritus of one of India's biggest conglomerates Tata Sons, passed away on Wednesday, 9 October, 2024.

He was reportedly admitted to Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital on October 7, after a drop in blood pressure.

“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,” Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran said in a statement.

Ratan Tata, born in 1937, served as Chairman of the Tata Group from 1991 to 2012. He briefly returned to the role in 2016, as interim CEO, following the controversial dismissal of his successor, Cyrus Mistry. During his tenure, the group has seen significant growth in revenue and profit.

He headed the conglomerate, which now has more than 10 listed firms and makes products ranging from cars to salt and software. The group acquired British luxury car brand Jaguar and Land Rover while Ratan Tata was the Chairman. 

Tata graduated from the Cornell University College of Architecture with a bachelor's degree in architecture and joined the Tata Group in 1961. In 2008, he was bestowed with the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award.

India Inc took to social media to express their condolences. "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. R.I.P," said Harsh Goenka, Chairman of RPG Enterprises said on X.

Anand Mahindra, chairman of Mahindra Group said: “…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. Goodbye and Godspeed, Mr. T. You will not be forgotten. Because Legends never die.”