Swapnil R Mishra
Ratan Tata, the renowned Indian industrialist and philanthropist, passed away at 86 years old in Breach Candy Hospital, Mumbai, after experiencing a sudden drop in blood pressure and subsequent deterioration in health.
On October 7, in a social media post, the 86-year-old dismissed health concerns as ‘rumours’ and informed his followers and fans that there was no cause for concern and that he is undergoing check-ups for age-related medical conditions.
Earlier, reports emerged that Ratan Tata was hospitalised after his blood pressure suddenly dropped.
N Chandrasekaran, Chairman, of Tata Sons confirms the demise of Philanthropist Ratan Tata and issued a media statement which said, “It is with a profound sense of loss that we bid farewell to Mr Ratan Naval Tata, a truly uncommon leader whose immeasurable contributions have shaped not only the Tata Group but also the very fabric of our nation. For the Tata Group, Mr. Tata was more than a chairperson. To me, he was a mentor, guide and friend. He was inspired by example. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation, the Tata Group under his stewardship expanded its global footprint while always remaining true to its moral compass.”
The statement further read that “Mr Tata’s dedication to philanthropy and the development of society has touched the lives of millions. From education to healthcare, his initiatives have left a deep-rooted mark that will benefit generations to come. Reinforcing all of this work was Mr. Tata’s genuine humility in every individual interaction. 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.”
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He was born on December 28, 1937, in Navsari, Gujarat, Tata was the great-grandson of Jamsetji Tata, the founder of the Tata Group, and steered the conglomerate to unprecedented heights.
Tata took the reins of the Tata Group in 1991, coinciding with a period of economic liberalisation in India. Born on December 28, 1937, Ratan Naval Tata was an Indian industrialist, philanthropist, and the former chairman of Tata Sons. He led the Tata Group from 1990 to 2012, serving as interim chairman from October 2016 to February 2017.
He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from Cornell University and succeeded JRD Tata as chairman of Tata Sons upon JRD’s retirement in 1991.
In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honour, in 2008, following the Padma Bhushan in 2000.
Over his two-decade-long leadership, he oversaw the diversification and expansion of the group into sectors such as IT, steel, automobiles, and hospitality.
The introduction of the Tata Nano in 2008, aimed at providing affordable cars for the masses, stands out as one of his signature accomplishments. Under his guidance, the Tata Group also made key global acquisitions, including Tetley, Jaguar Land Rover, and Corus.
