The world has lost a titan, a visionary leader whose influence extended far beyond the boardroom.
Ratan Tata, a man whose name became synonymous with integrity, innovation, and philanthropy, has passed away at the age of 86.From transforming Tata Group into a global powerhouse to touching millions of lives through his charity work, his contributions shaped modern India and left a lasting legacy.
Born in 1937 in Bombay, now Mumbai, Tata initially dreamt of being an architect, working in the U.S. before returning to India at the request of his grandmother. He began his journey on the shop floor of Tata Steel in 1962, working alongside the company’s laborers, forging a bond with workers that would guide his leadership style for decades to come.
When Tata took the reins of the family business in 1991, he did so amid sweeping economic reforms in India. His 21-year tenure as chairman saw the salt-to-steel conglomerate grow exponentially, acquiring global brands such as Jaguar, Land Rover, and Tetley Tea. Under his stewardship, the group's revenues soared from 6 billion dollars to over 100 billion dollars, with operations expanding into more than 100 countries.
Tata was known for his risk appetite, whether taking Tata Consultancy Services public in 2004, or acquiring the struggling Jaguar and Land Rover brands in 2008, which became one of his greatest triumphs. His bold move to buy British steelmaker Corus, though less successful, underscored his relentless ambition to take Tata beyond Indian borders.Yet Tata’s tenure wasn’t without challenges.
His pet project, the Tata Nano—billed as the world’s cheapest car—failed to gain traction in India’s aspirational market, and his leadership was questioned during India’s 2011 telecom licensing scandal, though the company was later cleared.
Even after stepping down in 2012, Tata’s legacy remained intertwined with the group. He returned briefly in 2016, following the abrupt dismissal of his successor, Cyrus Mistry, amid a corporate feud that rocked the group’s image. Despite this, Tata continued to be a revered figure in the business world.
To honor his immense contributions, Ratan Tata received the Padma Bhushan, one of India’s most prestigious civilian awards, in 2000. Internationally, his influence was recognized through honorary degrees from esteemed institutions such as Harvard and Cambridge, showcasing the global impact of his work.
Tata's philanthropic efforts were equally impactful. Over 65 per cent of his shares in Tata Sons go to charitable causes. His initiatives in healthcare, education, and rural development touched millions across India. He remained a humble, media-shy bachelor throughout his life, yet endeared himself to many with his deep love for animals, particularly dogs, and his passion for cars and aviation.
As tributes pour in from global leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and business figures like Mukesh Ambani, Sundar Pichai and Anand Mahindra, it is clear that Ratan Tata's influence will be felt for generations. His vision, kindness, and unwavering dedication to both business and society stand as a testament to a life well-lived—a life that will forever inspire.