Indian industrialist Ratan Tata, who played a pivotal role in transforming the Tata Group into a globally recognized conglomerate, has passed away at the age of 86, the company announced late Wednesday.
Under Tata’s leadership, the company expanded into a diverse international enterprise, with a portfolio that included everything from software to luxury cars.
“We deeply mourn the loss of Mr. Ratan Naval Tata, an exceptional leader whose vast contributions have shaped not only the Tata Group but also the nation itself,” said Tata Group Chairman N. Chandrasekaran in a statement. “We offer our heartfelt condolences to his family. His legacy will continue to inspire us as we uphold the values he championed.”
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Tata as “a visionary business leader, a compassionate soul, and an extraordinary human being.” Modi praised Tata for providing “stable leadership to one of India’s oldest and most prestigious business houses,” expressing deep sorrow at his passing and extending his condolences to Tata’s family in a message posted on X.
Born in 1937 in Bombay (now Mumbai), Tata initially aspired to become an architect and was working in the United States when his grandmother, who raised him, requested that he return home to join the family business. He started his career in 1962 at TISCO (now Tata Steel), living in an apprentice hostel and working on the factory floor near blast furnaces.
In 1991, Tata took the helm of the family empire during a time of radical free-market reforms in India. Over the next 21 years, he steered the salt-to-steel conglomerate to international success, acquiring iconic brands like Jaguar and Land Rover.
Beyond business, Tata’s philanthropic efforts had a profound impact, with the Tata Group noting that his work “touched the lives of millions” through education and healthcare initiatives. “His contributions will benefit generations to come,” the company added.
Prime Minister Modi also highlighted that Tata’s influence extended beyond the business world. “His humility, kindness, and unwavering commitment to improving society made him beloved by many,” Modi wrote, sharing a photo of the two smiling together.