Ratan Tata, the former chairman of India’s oldest conglomerate, Tata Group, has passed away at the age of 86 after being admitted to a hospital in Mumbai. Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran confirmed the news, describing Mr. Tata as his “friend, mentor, and guide”. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to Mr. Tata, hailing him as a visionary leader, compassionate soul, and extraordinary human being.
Mr. Tata’s leadership at Tata Group, a sprawling collection of nearly 100 companies, saw him guide the conglomerate to new heights. He received many accolades for his work, including the Padma Bhushan, one of India’s most distinguished civilian awards, in 2000. Under his stewardship, Tata Group expanded its reach, buying Jaguar and Land Rover from Ford in 2008 for 2.3 billion dollars.
Mr. Tata’s legacy goes beyond the corporate world, as he was also known for his philanthropic work. Indian prime minister Narendra Modi praised his humility, kindness, and commitment to making society better. Tata Group is one of the largest employers in the country, with over 350,000 people worldwide working for its various companies.
Ratan Tata (Image via Getty)
Tata Group’s portfolio includes leading companies such as Tata Steel, Tata Motors, Tata Power, and Tata Consultancy Services. Mr. Tata’s vision and leadership played a significant role in shaping the group’s growth and expansion. His achievements also extended to the field of aviation, as he pioneered commercial aviation in India by launching an airline in 1932, which later became Air India.
The government later took over Air India, but Tata Group reacquired it in 2021. The company also started a full-service carrier, Vistara, with Singapore Airlines, although it recently merged it with Air India. Mr. Tata’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of business leaders and entrepreneurs, as well as the millions of people employed by Tata Group and its various subsidiaries.
As Indian prime minister Narendra Modi and other leaders and dignitaries mourn the passing of Ratan Tata, his life and work will serve as a testament to his enduring impact on the country’s business terrain and beyond.
