Ratan Naval Tata, the Indian tycoon, passed away on Wednesday at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital, leaving behind ethical business practices, and philanthropy.
The Chairman of Tata Sons, Mr. N Chandrasekaran, commented that it is with a profound sense of loss that they bid farewell to Mr. Ratan Tata, a truly uncommon leader, whose valuable contributions have shaped not only Tata Groups but also the very fabric of our nation.
India’s Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Modi, has expressed his condolences on Twitter, saying that Shri Ratan Tata Ji was a visionary business leader, a compassionate soul, and an extraordinary human being.
Mr Modi also wrote that Ratan Tata Ji provided stable leadership to one of India’s oldest and most prestigious business houses. Mr Modi added that Mr Ratan Tata Ji’s contributions went far beyond the boardroom.
Being a prominent businessman and chairman of Tata Sons, Tata’s strategic acquisition and innovations drove the Tata Group into new markets, establishing it as a respectable name globally.
Shri Ratan Tata Ji was born on 28 December 1937 and led the Tata Group for more than two decades. From 1991 and 2012, he was the chairman of Tata Group and returned briefly as interim chairman in 2016.
Under his excellent leadership, the company grew rapidly and the revenue increased from $5.7 billion in 1991 to $100 billion in 2012.
His contributions to major global deals played a key role in the growth of the company. Tata brought Tetley in 2000, Corus in 2007, and Jaguar Land Rover in 2008.
His contributions also saw TCS (Tata Consultancy Services) rise to global prominence in 2008. Aiming to create the world’s most affordable car, Tata launched the Tata Nano.
A huge portion of Ratan Tata’s legacy lies in his philanthropy. More than 65 per cent of his shares go to charitable causes.
His contributions have funded healthcare, social development projects, and education across the country. Tata’s aim was always been to enhance the quality of life of Indians.
Ratan Tata has received various awards for his great contributions. Some of his awards include The Padma Bhushan in 2000 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2008.
Also, he was awarded the prestigious Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire, one of the UK’s highest civilian honours in 2014.
After stepping down in 2012, Ratan Tata remains active. He contributed to several promising start-ups and continues to support charitable causes.
Despite having a high-profile career, Ratan Tata lived a simple life. He resided in a modest home in Mumbai, and he was unmarried and loved to drive a Tata sedan.
