Ratan Naval Tata Passes Away:

Ratan Tata, the former chairman of Tata Sons and a respected leader in India, sadly passed away on Wednesday at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai. He was 86 years old. He had been in critical condition and receiving intensive care. Just a few days before, he mentioned that he was having some routine check-ups because of his age and health issues.

The Maharashtra government has declared a day of mourning to honor industrialist Ratan Tata, according to the Chief Minister’s office. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced that the national flag at government buildings in Maharashtra will be flown at half-mast on October 10 as a mark of respect. Tata's body will be displayed at the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) in south Mumbai from 10 AM to 4 PM, with his final rites scheduled to take place in the Worli area later in the day. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is expected to attend the last rites.

N Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons, announced Ratan Tata's passing in a late-night statement on Wednesday, celebrating the industrialist’s dedication to excellence, integrity, and innovation.

"It is with deep sorrow that we say goodbye to Mr. Ratan Naval Tata, a remarkable leader whose immense contributions have not only shaped the Tata Group but also the core of our nation," stated Mr. Chandrasekaran.

"For the Tata Group, Mr. Tata was more than just a chairperson; he was a mentor, guide, and friend. He inspired us through his actions. With a steadfast commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation, he helped the Tata Group expand globally while staying true to its values," said Mr. Chandrasekaran.

Reflecting on Mr. Tata's philanthropic efforts, he added, "From education to healthcare, his initiatives have made a lasting impact that will benefit future generations."

As the news spread, tributes began pouring in from across the industry and beyond.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Draupadi Murmu led the nation in paying tribute to the late Chairman Emeritus of the Tata Group.

In a heartfelt tweet, Prime Minister Modi referred to Tata as a "visionary." He shared, "I would meet him frequently in Gujarat when I was the CM. We exchanged views on various issues, and I found his insights very enriching. Our interactions continued when I moved to Delhi. I am deeply pained by his passing. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and admirers during this difficult time. Om Shanti."

Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also offered their condolences, reflecting on Tata's values and contributions.

Numerous chief ministers, actors, politicians, and business leaders have continued to express their grief over Ratan Tata's passing, sharing fond memories of him.

Ratan Naval Tata: 

Ratan Tata, the former chairman of Tata Sons, is a revered industrialist and philanthropist who transformed the Tata Group into a global powerhouse. Known for his visionary leadership and commitment to ethical business practices, he played a pivotal role in expanding the company into diverse sectors, including steel, automobiles, and information technology. Tata’s emphasis on corporate social responsibility and innovation has left an indelible mark on both the Indian economy and society. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of leaders.

Tata joined the Tata Group in 1962 and became its leader in 1991 after J.R.D. Tata died in Geneva, Switzerland. Interestingly, his new role happened around the same time India was opening up its economy and making important changes.

Within six years of taking charge, Tata revamped the Tata Group, which was making $5.9 billion in revenue. This meant letting go of some leaders, like Russi Modi from Tata Steel, Darbari Seth from Tata Chemicals, and Ajit Kelkar from Indian Hotels Co.

At the start of the century, Tata made a bold move by aiming to expand the Tata Group's business internationally. This led to the group spending $15 billion to buy Tetley Tea, Jaguar Land Rover, and Corus Group, a steelmaker from the UK and the Netherlands.

When he chose to retire in 2012 at the age of 74, the Tata Group's revenue had grown to $100 billion.