Renowned Indian industrialist and former Tata Sons chairman, Ratan Tata, passed away at the age of 86 in Mumbai. Tributes poured in from across the world for Tata, described as a visionary leader and philanthropist.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Tata as a compassionate and extraordinary human being who provided stable leadership to one of India’s oldest and most prestigious business houses. Google CEO Sundar Pichai noted Tata’s extraordinary business and philanthropic legacy, while Anand Mahindra of the Mahindra Group called for emulating Tata’s example.
Tata Group, under his leadership, became a sprawling empire of nearly 100 companies, including the country’s largest automaker and private steel company. Tata was instrumental in pioneering commercial aviation in India, launching an airline in 1932 that later became Air India.
Throughout his career, Tata received numerous accolades, including the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, India’s highest civilian honors.
Tata’s legacy was not without challenges, as seen in the low sales and subsequent discontinuation of the Tata Nano. Despite setbacks, Tata’s commitment to innovation and philanthropy remained unwavering.
Having joined the Tata Group in 1961 and becoming chairman in 1991, Tata navigated the group through major economic reforms in India. His retirement in 2012 marked the end of an era, but Tata’s influence continued as he briefly returned to lead the group in 2016.
Ratan Tata’s passing is mourned by the business community in India and beyond, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, innovation, and philanthropy that will be remembered for years to come.
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