Ratan Tata dies at 86: As India mourns loss of the icon, tributes pour in

'Ratan Tata was a visionary business leader, a compassionate soul, extraordinary human,' says PM Modi

Ratan Tata, chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, passed away, on Wednesday night, at the age of 86.

'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," Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran said in a statement.

The statement added, "For the Tata Group, Mr Tata was more than a chairperson. To me, he was a mentor, guide and friend. He 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. 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."

As India bids farewell to the icon, an outpouring of condolences flooded in from leaders across the nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first to express his sorrow, paying tribute to Tata's "unwavering commitment to building a better society" and recognising the profound impact of his legacy on India.

Remembering chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, other prominent industry and political figures, including Rahul Gandhi, Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah, Mamata Banerjee, Mukesh Ambani, Gautam Adani, Harsh Goenka, Anand Mahindra, Uday Kotak, and many other also took to X (formerly Twitter) to express their sorrow at the loss of one of India’s most beloved leaders and businessmen. 

"Ratan Tata was a man with a vision. He has left a lasting mark on both business and philanthropy. My condolences to his family and the Tata community," said Rahul Gandhi.

"Saddened by the passing away of Shri Ratan Tata. He was a Titan of the Indian industry known for his monumental contributions to our economy, trade and industry. My deepest condolences to his family, friends and admirers. May his soul rest in peace," said defence minister Rajnath Singh.

Hailing his selfless dedication to the development of our nation, Home minister Amit Shah said, "Every time I met him, his zeal and commitment to the betterment of Bharat and its people amazed me."

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said, "Saddened by the demise of Ratan Tata, Chairman Emeritus of the Tata Sons. The former Chairman of Tata Group had been a foremost leader of Indian industries and a public-spirited philanthropist. His demise will be an irreparable loss for Indian business world and society. My condolences to all his family members and colleagues."

In a heartfelt tribute, Reliance Industries' CMD Mukesh Ambani said, "It is a very sad day for India and India Inc. Ratan Tata's passing away is a big loss, not just to the Tata Group, but to every Indian. At a personal level, the passing of Ratan Tata has filled me with immense grief as I lost a dear friend. Each of my numerous interactions with him left me inspired and energised and enhanced my respect for the nobility of his character and the fine human values he embodied. Ratan Tata was a visionary industrialist and a philanthropist, who always strove for society's greater good. With the demise of Mr Ratan Tata, India has lost one of her most illustrious and kind-hearted sons. Mr Tata took India to the world and brought the best of the world to Bharat. He institutionalised the House of Tata and made it an international enterprise growing the Tata group over 70 times since the time he took over as Chairman in 1991. On behalf of Reliance, Nita and the Ambani family, I send my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved members of the Tata family and the entire Tata Group. Ratan, you will always remain in my heart."

"Legends like him never fade away," said Gautam Adani, chaiperson of Adani Group.

Businessman and BJP MP Naveen Jindal took to X and said, "Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Shri Ratan Tata Ji. His vision, humility, and compassion transformed industries and lives alike. His legacy will continue to inspire generations. As he once said, “If you want to walk fast, walk alone. If you want to walk far, walk together.” He always stood by his principles and worked tirelessly for a better India."May his soul rest in peace."

"The clock has stopped ticking," said Chairperson of the RPG Group Harsh Goenka.

"Legends never die," said Anand Mahindra. "I am unable to accept the absence of  Ratan Tata. "India’s economy stands on the cusp of a historic leap forward. And Ratan’s life and work have had much to do with our being in this position. Hence, his mentorship and guidance at this point in time would have been invaluable. With him gone, all we can do is to commit to emulating his example. Because he was a businessman for whom financial wealth and success was most useful when it was put to the service of the global community. "