On October 9, 2024, India lost one of its most cherished business leaders and philanthropists, Ratan Tata, who passed away at the age of 86. His death marks the end of an era, not only for Tata Group, one of India’s most respected conglomerates, but for the Indian business landscape as a whole. Ratan Tata was not just a corporate figure; he was a visionary whose leadership and ethical business practices have left an indelible mark on India’s economic and social fabric.
A Life of Purpose
Born in 1937 into the illustrious Tata family, Ratan Tata carried forward the legacy of a business empire that spans over 150 years. He joined Tata Sons in 1962 and steadily rose to the top, becoming chairman in 1991. Under his leadership, Tata Group expanded globally, acquiring landmark companies like Jaguar Land Rover and Tetley Tea, transforming Tata from a primarily Indian entity to a global powerhouse.
However, it was not just his corporate acumen that set him apart. Tata was widely admired for his humility, philanthropy, and commitment to social causes. Through the Tata Trusts, he directed significant portions of the group’s profits toward healthcare, education, rural development, and research. His initiatives, such as the affordable Tata Nano car and Tata’s vast CSR programs, reflected his commitment to making India better for its citizens.
Final Goodbye: State Funeral
As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from across the globe, reflecting the deep respect he commanded across business, political, and social spheres. Ratan Tata was honored with a state funeral, a rare distinction that highlights his significance to the nation. The Maharashtra government declared a day of mourning, and the national tricolour was flown at half-mast in all government offices in the state.
His mortal remains were kept at the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) in Nariman Point, Mumbai, where the public was invited to pay their respects. Hundreds of people from all walks of life gathered, showing their admiration for a man who was as much a beloved humanitarian as he was a business leader.
A Gathering of India’s Top Leaders
The funeral ceremony saw the attendance of some of India’s most prominent political and business figures. Union Home Minister Amit Shah attended on behalf of the central government, paying his last respects to the industrial titan. Shah expressed deep sorrow at Tata’s passing, describing him as “a man of unparalleled integrity and vision, who changed the landscape of Indian industry.”
Other notable attendees included Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, who had a close working relationship with Tata during his career. Goyal, visibly emotional during the ceremony, remarked, “India has lost a legend today. His contributions to our nation are immeasurable.”
The presence of leading business figures was equally significant. Mukesh Ambani, chairman of Reliance Industries, described Tata as “a towering figure of Indian industry whose leadership and ethical vision were an inspiration to all.” Kumar Mangalam Birla, chairman of the Aditya Birla Group, called Tata’s death “the end of an era,” adding that India had lost a “true visionary and a compassionate leader.”
N. Chandrasekaran, the current chairman of Tata Sons, paid a personal tribute, stating, “I had the honor of working with Ratan Tata for many years. His guidance, mentorship, and vision have shaped not only Tata Group but also India’s place in the global business community. His legacy will live on for generations to come.”
Tributes from the Nation and Beyond
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also mourned Ratan Tata’s death, calling him a “visionary business leader, a compassionate soul, and an extraordinary human being.” Modi praised Tata’s role in shaping the modern Indian economy and his commitment to philanthropy, adding that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
“Ratan Tata’s contribution went far beyond the boardroom. He endeared himself to people with his humility, kindness, and unwavering commitment to improving society,” Modi said in a heartfelt tribute shared on social media.
Legacy of a Legend
Ratan Tata’s life was a testament to how businesses can be driven by both profit and purpose. Under his stewardship, Tata Group’s turnover grew almost 40 times, while profits multiplied by over 50 times. But beyond the balance sheets, his true legacy lies in the numerous lives he touched through the group’s philanthropy and ethical business practices.
Tata’s vision transcended business. He advocated for clean energy, affordable healthcare, and technological innovation. His efforts to uplift marginalized communities and support national causes, such as disaster relief and education reform, earned him the love and admiration of millions across the country.
As India mourns his passing, the void left by Ratan Tata will be hard to fill. However, his legacy of integrity, humility, and a relentless commitment to social causes will continue to inspire future generations of business leaders. His passing is not just the loss of a corporate leader but the departure of a national icon who embodied the values of responsibility and compassion in an ever-changing world.
The Last Rites
At 3:30 PM on October 10, 2024, Ratan Tata’s body was taken to Worli Crematorium for the last rites, with dignitaries and close family members in attendance. It was a solemn occasion, marked by the outpouring of grief and respect from across the nation. Ratan Tata leaves behind a legacy that will continue to shape India’s business and philanthropic landscape for generations to come.
