In a profound loss for India and the global business community, Ratan Tata, the revered former chairman of Tata Sons, passed away at the age of 86 at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital. Known for his humility, simplicity, and visionary leadership, Tata’s death marks the end of an era for the Tata Group, one of India’s oldest and most respected conglomerates. Ratan Tata’s extraordinary life and work will continue to inspire generations. Ratan Tata’s journey with Tata Group began in 1962 on the shop floor of Tata Steel, and under his leadership, the company expanded its global presence and influence. Despite his business success, Tata preferred a simple personal life, living in a modest flat in Mumbai. He famously built the world’s cheapest car, the Tata Nano, inspired after seeing a family struggle in the rain on a two-wheeler. Recently, Tata played a key role in the acquisition of Air India, rescuing the debt-ridden airline for ₹18,000 crore.
Raised by His Grandmother, Almost Married Four Times
Ratan Tata was born on December 28, 1937, to Naval and Sonu Tata, making him the great-grandson of Tata Group’s founder, Jamshedji Tata. After his parents’ separation, his grandmother raised him, shaping his early life. Despite nearly getting married four times, Tata remained a bachelor. One relationship, during his time in the U.S., was interrupted by the India-China war, after which the woman married someone else.
Chairman for 21 Years: Transforming Tata Group
Ratan Tata’s tenure as chairman, starting in 1991, saw Tata Group’s profits increase 50 times, with most revenue generated from overseas businesses like Jaguar-Land Rover and Tetley. He stepped down as chairman in 2012, appointing Cyrus Mistry as his successor. However, tensions led to Mistry’s removal in 2016, with Tata briefly returning as interim chairman until a permanent replacement was found in 2017.
A Man of Few Words, A Love for Books and Cars
Known for his quiet demeanor, Ratan Tata was a passionate reader and lover of cars. He enjoyed classical music, particularly Chopin, Beethoven, and Tchaikovsky, and had a deep interest in car design and mechanics. He often expressed his fascination with both old and new cars.
A Mentor and Friend: Driving a Younger Colleague to Dinner
One of Tata’s closest associates, Shantanu Naidu, shared a glimpse of his personality. Naidu, 30 years younger, spoke of Tata’s humility, recalling how he personally drove them to dinner. Tata even attended Naidu’s graduation ceremony, keeping a promise he had made.
Philanthropy and Contributions
Beyond business, Tata was deeply involved in philanthropy. He ensured that 60-65% of Tata Sons’ dividends were directed to charitable causes through Tata Trusts. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he personally donated ₹500 crore to support relief efforts. Tata also donated $50 million to his alma mater, Harvard Business School, establishing an executive center and furthering his legacy as a generous philanthropist.
Tributes Pour In
As news of Tata’s passing spread, tributes poured in from across the globe. Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran expressed deep sorrow, calling Tata a guru, guide and friend. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage, hailing him as an icon of corporate leadership, philanthropy, and nation-building. Rahul Gandhi also acknowledged Tata’s visionary contributions to business and society.