Indian business tycoon Ratan Tata has passed away at the age of 86, as confirmed by the Tata Group, which he led for over two decades.
Tata was one of India’s most renowned business leaders globally. The Tata Group, one of India’s largest companies, has annual revenues exceeding $100 billion.
In a statement, Tata Sons’ current chairman, Natarajan Chandrasekaran, called Tata a “truly uncommon leader,” and expressed deep condolences to his loved ones. He also noted that Tata’s legacy will continue to inspire the group as they uphold his cherished values.
As chairman, Tata oversaw major acquisitions like the purchase of Corus, Jaguar Land Rover, and Tetley. UK Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds described him as a “titan of the business world” who greatly influenced British industry.
In 2012, Tata retired as chairman and became chairman emeritus of Tata Sons. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Tata a “visionary leader” and expressed deep sorrow over his passing.
Ratan Tata was born in 1937 in a traditional Parsi family and studied architecture and structural engineering at Cornell University. He joined Tata Industries in 1962 and worked across Tata Steel, TCS, and Nelco before becoming chairman in 1991, succeeding his mentor, JRD Tata.
He was honored with the Padma Vibhushan in 2008, India’s second-highest civilian award. Tata was known for his love of fast cars, planes, and dogs, with a lifelong passion for pets. He was also praised for his simplicity, once going viral for riding in a Nano car, one of his group’s more challenging ventures.
A state funeral will be held later today in Mumbai, where his body is lying in state for people to pay their respects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Q) What caused Ratan Tata’s death?
A) Ratan Tata was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in critical condition due to breathing difficulties on October 7, 2024. He passed away at 11:30 p.m. IST on October 9, 2024, at the age of 86, due to age-related health issues.
Q) Has Ratan Tata passed away?
A) Yes, Indian business tycoon Ratan Tata passed away at the age of 86. He led the Tata Group, one of India’s most prominent companies, with annual revenues exceeding $100 billion.
Q) Was Ratan Tata buried?
A) Ratan Tata was cremated with full state honors in Mumbai.
Q) Who was the young man with Ratan Tata?
A) Ratan Tata shared a unique friendship with his young assistant, Shantanu Naidu. Naidu led the hearse on his bike during Tata’s final journey after his passing.
