MENA Newswire News Desk: Indian business magnate Ratan Tata, who led the Tata Group for over two decades, has passed away at the age of 86. The news was confirmed by Tata Group in a statement late Wednesday. As one of India’s most influential business leaders, Tata played a pivotal role in transforming the conglomerate into a global powerhouse. Ratan Tata, born in 1937 to a prominent Parsi family, was instrumental in overseeing several major acquisitions that expanded the group’s international footprint.
Notable among these were the takeovers of Anglo-Dutch steelmaker Corus, UK-based luxury car brands Jaguar and Land Rover, and Tetley, the world’s second-largest tea company. Under his leadership, the Tata Group became one of India’s largest companies, with annual revenues exceeding $100 billion. India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over Tata’s passing, reflecting on their many interactions over the years. Modi said, “He was a visionary leader with a passion for dreaming big and giving back. His contributions to society, including education and healthcare, will never be forgotten.”
Natarajan Chandrasekaran, the current chairman of Tata Sons, described Tata as a “truly uncommon leader” in a heartfelt tribute. “On behalf of the entire Tata family, I extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones. His legacy will continue to inspire us as we strive to uphold the principles he so passionately championed,” Chandrasekaran said in a statement.
Ratan Tata’s influence extended beyond the business realm. He was known for his humility and deep commitment to philanthropy, championing causes such as education, healthcare, and animal welfare. His work earned him the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honor, in 2008.
Anand Mahindra, chairman of Mahindra Group, also paid tribute, posting a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter): “I am unable to accept the absence of Ratan Tata. His mentorship and guidance were invaluable at a time when India’s economy stands on the cusp of a historic leap forward.”
Tata began his career at Tata Industries in 1962 as an assistant, receiving hands-on training in the company’s operations. He worked at various Tata subsidiaries, including Tata Steel and Tata Consultancy Services, before being appointed as the chairman of Tata Group in 1991, succeeding JRD Tata. His leadership was characterized by bold decisions that modernized and globalized the family-owned conglomerate. Upon retiring in 2012, Tata was named chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, continuing to serve as an advisor and symbol of the company’s enduring values. He remained active in business and philanthropy until his death.