Indian Business Icon Ratan Tata Passes Away at 86: A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation
Ratan Tata, one of India’s most esteemed business leaders, passed away at the age of 86, as confirmed by the Tata Group, the multi-billion dollar conglomerate he led for over two decades. Widely recognized as a visionary, Tata’s leadership transformed the Tata Group into a global powerhouse, earning him respect both in India and internationally.
Tata’s Legacy: Transforming the Tata Group
Under Ratan Tata’s leadership, the Tata Group became one of India’s largest and most influential companies, with annual revenues exceeding $100 billion. He spearheaded several notable acquisitions, including the purchase of Anglo-Dutch steelmaker Corus, British car brands Jaguar and Land Rover, and Tetley, the world’s second-largest tea company.
Natarajan Chandrasekaran, the current chairman of Tata Sons, hailed Tata as a “truly uncommon leader,” stating, “His legacy will continue to inspire us as we uphold the principles he passionately championed.”
A Global Business Icon
Tata’s impact extended beyond India. UK Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds described him as a “titan of the business world” who played a significant role in shaping British industry. A profile in The Economist in 2011 credited Tata with transforming the family group into a global giant, noting that despite owning less than 1% of the group, he was “the most powerful businessman in India and one of the most influential in the world.”
Retirement and Continued Influence
In 2012, Ratan Tata retired as chairman of the Tata Group, becoming chairman emeritus of Tata Sons. His influence, however, remained significant, and his leadership continued to guide the company’s values and growth strategies.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Tata, calling him a “visionary business leader, a compassionate soul, and an extraordinary human being.” Modi reflected on their “countless interactions” and expressed deep sorrow over his passing.
A Life of Humble Beginnings and Global Impact
Born in 1937 into a traditional Parsi family, Ratan Tata studied architecture and structural engineering at Cornell University. He joined Tata Industries in 1962 and gained experience at Tata Steel, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), and other group companies. In 1991, he succeeded JRD Tata as chairman, whom he considered a father figure and mentor.
Tata’s contributions to Indian industry were recognized with the Padma Vibhushan in 2008, the country’s second-highest civilian honor. Peter Casey, author of The Story of Tata, described him as “modest, reserved, and even shy,” with a calm demeanor and fierce discipline.
Personal Passions and Simplicity
Beyond business, Ratan Tata was known for his love of fast cars, airplanes, and scuba diving. Though his passion for diving faded with age, his love for dogs remained strong throughout his life. He often spoke fondly of the pets who gave him companionship over the years, stating in a 2021 interview, “My love for dogs as pets is ever strong and will continue for as long as I live.”
Despite his immense wealth and influence, Tata was admired for his simplicity. In 2022, a viral video showed him traveling in a Tata Nano, one of the world’s cheapest cars and a symbol of his grounded nature.
A Lasting Legacy
Ratan Tata’s passing marks the end of an era for Indian business and global leadership. His legacy of integrity, innovation, and compassion will continue to inspire generations of entrepreneurs and business leaders around the world.
Source : BBC
