A pall of gloom descended over the Indian industry as Tata Group’s Chairman Emeritus and veteran industrialist Ratan Tata breathed his last at south Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital at 11.30 pm on Wednesday. ‘Padma Vibhushan’ Ratan Tata, who led the salt-to-software conglomerate to new heights, was 86. “It is with a profound sense of loss that we bid farewell to 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 subsequently. Chandrasekaran said that Tata, a friend, mentor and guide, led by example and had an unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation. Ratan Tata led the Tata Group from March 1991 to December 2012 as Chairman of Tata Sons.

 

Under his leadership, the Tata Group expanded its global footprint while always remaining true to its moral compass, he added. Ratan Tata’s dedication to philanthropy and development of society touched the lives of millions and will benefit generations to come, Chandrasekharan added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid rich tributes to Tata, describing him as a visionary business leader, compassionate soul and an extraordinary human being. “One of the most unique aspects of Shri Ratan Tata Ji was his passion towards dreaming big and giving back. He was at the forefront of championing causes like education, healthcare, sanitation, animal welfare to name a few,” he said. On Monday, Tata, known for his philanthropy besides being a respected industry leader, had asserted that there was no cause for concern regarding his health and he was undergoing check-ups for age-related medical conditions. “There is no cause for concern. I remain in good spirits,” read his last social media message. NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar said, Ratan Tata will always be remembered for extending helping hand to the country during humanitarian crises or natural disasters. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari condoled the demise of industrialist Ratan Tata, saying the country has lost an ideal and accomplished son. “I am stunned after hearing the news of the death of a great son of India,” the senior BJP leader stated. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis tweeted, “The passing away of Ratan Ji Tata is deeply saddening.”

 

 

Shri Ratan Tata Ji was 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.

 

n 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. -- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh n 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.

 

n In Ratan Tata’s passing away, we have lost an invaluable son of India. A philanthropist par excellence whose commitment to India’s inclusive growth and development remained paramount, Shri Tata was synonymous with unequivocal integrity and ethical leadership. He was an inspiration and an icon for millions of people and richly contributed to nation building. Our condolences to his loved ones and admirers.

 

n It is a very sad day for India and India Inc. Ratan Tata’s passing away is a big loss, not just to the Tata Group, but to every Indian. At a personal level, the passing away of Ratan Tata has filled me with immense grief as I lost a dear friend. Each of my numerous interactions with him left me inspired and energised and enhanced my respect for the nobility of his character and the fine human values he embodied. India has lost one of her most illustrious and kind-hearted sons.

 

n 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.