Photographer: Brian Harkin/Getty Images
Ratan Naval Tata, the former chairman of the Tata Group, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 86. Tata, who transformed a staid conglomerate into India’s biggest business empire through a series of landmark deals, breathed its last in Mumbai’s Breach. Candy Hospital at 11.30 pm. Tata had been in intensive care since Monday, being treated for age-related health conditions. Despite earlier assurances from the industry, saying there was “no reason to worry” about his health, his passing left the nation mourning the loss of a titan.
A Padma Vibhushan awardee, Tata has led the Tata Group for more than two decades, shaping its global footprint in industries from salt to software. Known for his leadership and philanthropy, his influence extended beyond the boardroom, touching millions of people through his contributions to business, society, and charities.
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As condolences poured in from political and business leaders around the world, Bollywood actors again took to social media to pay tribute to the man who left an indelible mark on India and the world.
Bollywood mourns the passing of Ratan Tata
Bollywood’s biggest stars, Salman Khan and Ajay Devgn, Priyanka Chopra and Anushka Sharma, expressed their grief and eulogy for the late industrialist. Many expressed their gratitude on social media, reflecting on Tata’s legacy and the impact he had on the nation.
Ajay Devgn wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “The world mourns the loss of a visionary. Ratan Tata’s legacy will inspire generations forever. His contributions to India and beyond are immeasurable. Thank you very much. Rest in peace Sir.”
Salman Khan also expressed his sadness, he wrote, “I am very saddened by the passing of Mr. Ratan Tata.”
Priyanka Chopra, in a touching tribute, tweeted, “Through your kindness, you touched the lives of millions. Your legacy of leadership and generosity will continue to inspire generations. Thank you for your incomparable love and sacrifice for everything you have done for our country. You were an inspiration to us all and we will miss you dearly, Sir.”
Through your kindness, you have touched the lives of millions.
Your legacy of leadership and generosity will continue to inspire generations.
Thank you for your incomparable love and sacrifice for everything you have done for our country. You have been an inspiration to us all and will… pic.twitter.com/1JfSzHXqhG
– PRIYANKA (@priyankachopra) October 9, 2024
Anushka Sharma shared an emotional message on Instagram Stories, along with a photo of the late industrialist: “Deeply saddened by the sad news of Shri Ratan Tata. He upheld the standards of integrity, kindness and dignity in everything he did and was truly an icon and the Taj of India. RIP Sir, you have touched many lives.”
Other stars like Rana Daggubati, who called Tata … “an icon of leadership, philanthropy, and ethics”, and Jr NTR, who referred to him as “a titan of industry and a heart of gold”, also paid their respects.
Superstar Nagarjuna Akkieni wrote, “Shri RatanTata ji, India will miss you. Your humility, compassion and leadership!! Sleep in peace and rest in glory, Sir.”
Varun Dhawan, Randeep Hooda, Riteish Deshmukh, Shraddha Kapoor, and other Bollywood celebrities also joined the tribute, celebrating Tata’s huge impact on the country.
A life of leadership and generosity
Ratan Tata was more than an industrialist – he was a symbol of ethical leadership, compassion, and growth of vision. Under his leadership, the Tata Group expanded its global presence, making landmark acquisitions such as Jaguar Land Rover and Corus Steel, raising the Group’s global standing.
Tata’s philanthropic efforts also changed in the same way. He championed social causes through the Tata Trusts, which continue to fund programs in education, healthcare, and rural development across India. He remained committed to improving lives, in India and around the world, earning him respect and admiration beyond corporate circles.
The loss of Ratan Tata marks the end of an era for Indian business, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. His contributions to the development of the nation’s industries, and his selfless dedication to helping people, will remain a guide in the years to come.
First published: October 10 2024 | 11:49 AM IST