Ratan Tata dies at the age of 86

Ratan Tata, the former chairman of the Tata Group who put the Indian conglomerate on the world stage with a series of high-profile acquisitions, has died, Tata Group said in a statement late Wednesday evening. He was 86.

Just two days ago, on Monday, the industrialist had, in a post on social media, debunked the rumors circulating around his health, with a message for his followers: “Thank you for thinking of me”.

“I am aware of the recent rumors circulating regarding my health and would like to assure everyone that these claims are unfounded. I am currently undergoing medical check-ups due to my age and related medical conditions. I remain in good spirits…” Mr Tata had said in his social media post.

Thank you for thinking of me 🤍 pic.twitter.com/MICi6zVH99

— Ratan N. Tata (@RNTata2000) October 7, 2024

“I request the public and the media to refrain from spreading misinformation,” the 86-year-old had said in his latest social media post.

Announcing the death, N Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons, praised the industrialist’s unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity and innovation.

“It is with a deep sense of loss that we bid farewell to Mr. Ratan Naval Tata, a truly unusual leader whose immeasurable contributions shaped not only the Tata Group but also the fabric of our nation,” said Mr. Chandrasekaran.

“To the Tata Group, Mr. Tata was more than a Chairman. To me, he was a mentor, guide and friend. He inspired by example. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity and innovation, the Tata Group stands under his leadership, his global footprint expanded while always staying true to his moral compass,” he added.

Elaborating on Mr Tata’s commitment to philanthropy, Mr Chandrasekaran said: “From education to healthcare, his initiatives have left a deep-rooted mark that will benefit generations to come.”

As the news spread, tributes poured in from friends, fellow industrialists and movie stars.

Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra said he could not accept Tata’s absence and the only thing that could be done now was to emulate his example.

Industrialist Gautam Adan said that “legends like him never disappear”.

RPG Enterprises chairman Harsh Goenka called the industrialist a “beacon of integrity”.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the tycoon as a “compassionate soul” and said he provided “stable leadership to one of India’s oldest business houses”.

“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 contributions extended far beyond the boardroom. He endeared him to him,” said the Prime Minister in a series of messages on X.

Ratan Tata became chairman of the $100 billion steel-to-software conglomerate in 1991 and until 2012 headed the group his great-grandfather founded more than a century ago.

He founded telecommunications company Tata Teleservices in 1996 and floated IT company Tata Consultancy Services in 2004.

Long after his retirement, Mr Tata remained a popular figure on social media, with heartfelt posts about animal rights (particularly dogs) and appeals to Indian citizens.