Ratan Tata, Visionary Leader of Tata Group, Passes Away at 86: A Legacy of Innovation and Compassion

Ratan Tata, the visionary leader who chaired India’s oldest conglomerate, Tata Group, as well as Tata Steel and Jaguar Land Rover, has passed away at the age of 86.

His legacy is being remembered and celebrated by many, including Tata Sons chair Natarajan Chandrasekaran, who described him as a “friend, mentor, and guide”

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to Mr. Tata, calling him “a visionary business leader, a compassionate soul and an extraordinary human being” who provided stable leadership to one of India’s most prestigious business houses.

Modi highlighted Mr. Tata’s humility, kindness, and commitment to making society better, which endeared him to many.

Throughout his illustrious career, Mr. Tata worked with various Tata companies, including Telco (now Tata Motors Ltd) and Tata Steel Ltd, before taking the helm in 1991 and leading the conglomerate for over 20 years. His achievements were recognized with prestigious awards, including the Padma Bhushan in 2000 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2008 for exceptional service in trade and industry.

Under Mr. Tata’s leadership, the Tata Group expanded its global presence, acquiring notable brands such as Tetley for $432m in 2000 and Jaguar and Land Rover from Ford for $2.3bn in 2008.

Today, the Tata Group employs over 350,000 people worldwide, making it one of the largest and most respected conglomerates in India.