On October 9, 2024, India lost one of its most iconic and beloved business leaders, Ratan Naval Tata. The visionary leader, philanthropist, and former chairman of Tata Sons left an indelible mark on the nation and the world. His passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and tribute from various sectors of Indian industry, as well as from global leaders, reflecting the profound influence he wielded across multiple domains.
The Tata Group, a conglomerate that expanded under Ratan Tata’s leadership into a global powerhouse, released a series of full-page advertisements across the nation’s newspapers, expressing their sorrow and reverence for their former chairman. Tata Trusts, a major philanthropic arm of the group, led the tributes with a heartfelt message: “In loving memory of Ratan N Tata. It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that we inform you of the demise of our beloved Chairman, a legend of our times who passed away on October 9, 2024. While we will miss his physical presence, he will always live in our hearts and minds.” The Trusts reiterated their commitment to uphold his legacy, rooted in the welfare of society and India’s civilizational values.
Corporations Unite in Remembrance of a Visionary
The Tata Motors family, which includes Tata EV, Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), Tata Daewoo, Tata Technologies, and Tata Motors Finance, also expressed their sorrow. In a tribute, they acknowledged Ratan Tata’s role in shaping the automotive landscape of India and the world: “Our heartfelt tributes to a visionary leader who inspired us with his innovative spirit, compassion, and grace. We are honored to have worked under his stellar leadership.”
Chief Executive Officer, JLR, Adrian Mardell wrote, ” The entire JLR family is deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Ratan Tata. His remarkable achievements and unparalleled legacy have left an indelible impact on society, and his influence on our company and brands is unmatched by any other individual. It was his visionary leadership that enabled Tata to acquire JLR in 2008, and everything we have become since is a testament to his unwavering support and dedication. Mr. Tata led us through an extraordinary journey, inspiring incredible new chapters in our history. Under his generous and trusting guidance, we have felt immense pride in being part of the Tata legacy. On behalf of everyone at JLR, I extend our deepest gratitude for his exceptional leadership.”
Tata Sons, the holding company of the Tata Group, and its subsidiary companies emphasized the profound impact Ratan Tata had on the organization and beyond. “Mr. Tata was more than a chairperson,” their statement read. “He inspired by example. His unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation expanded the Tata Group’s global footprint while staying true to its moral compass.” They highlighted his contributions to education, healthcare, and other philanthropic initiatives that have impacted millions, asserting that his legacy of humility, service, and leadership would continue to guide the group.
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), one of the group’s flagship companies, also honored Tata’s influence. “With deep sorrow, all of us at TCS mourn the passing of Mr. Ratan Naval Tata, an extraordinary leader whose legacy will always be a guiding light for us,” the advert read, acknowledging his unique leadership style that combined confidence with humility, and his transformative impact on the technology sector.
PM Modi Pays Tribute to Ratan Tata
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep sorrow over the passing of Ratan Tata, calling him a “visionary business leader, a compassionate soul, and an extraordinary human being.” Modi highlighted Tata’s role in providing stable and transformative leadership to one of India’s most iconic business groups. However, he emphasized that Tata’s contributions extended well beyond corporate leadership. “He endeared himself to countless people through his humility, kindness, and unwavering commitment to improving society,” Modi remarked.
He noted Tata’s remarkable passion for dreaming big and giving back, stating, “Shri Ratan Tata Ji was at the forefront of championing causes like education, healthcare, sanitation, and animal welfare, among others.” Modi also reflected on their personal rapport, sharing memories of their numerous interactions during his tenure as Gujarat’s Chief Minister. “We would frequently meet and exchange views on various issues. I found his perspectives immensely enriching,” he recalled. Modi added that these interactions continued even after he took on the role of Prime Minister.
Conveying his deep sadness, Modi said, “I am extremely pained by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and admirers during this difficult time.” He concluded his tribute with a heartfelt prayer, “Om Shanti.”
Industry Giants and Global Icons Pay Tribute
Beyond the Tata Group, numerous Indian and global entities paid homage to Ratan Tata. Bill Gates, the American business magnate and philanthropist, shared a poignant message: “Ratan Tata was a visionary leader whose dedication to improving lives left an indelible mark on India—and the world. I had the privilege of meeting him on several occasions, and I was always moved by his strong sense of purpose and service to humanity. His loss will be felt around the world for years to come.”
Amitabh Bachchan shared his thoughts on the passing of Shri Ratan Tata, saying, “I just learned of Shri Ratan Tata’s passing while working late into the night. With his loss, an era has truly ended. He was a leader of remarkable vision and determination, yet grounded in humility and respect. I was fortunate to share many memorable moments with him during various campaigns we collaborated on. My heartfelt prayers are with him.”
In India, the Mahindra Group, a rival conglomerate, expressed its admiration and respect: “We at Mahindra Group are deeply saddened by the loss of Shri Ratan Tata. A true visionary, his leadership and values transformed India’s industrial landscape. His legacy of innovation, integrity, and philanthropy will continue to inspire us all.”
Similarly, Kia India paid tribute with a simple yet poignant statement: “Greatness is measured not by success, but by the good you leave behind. Rest in peace, Sir.”
Companies Across Sectors Express Condolences
The tributes extended across various sectors, reflecting Tata’s widespread influence. Kirloskar Electric, led by Executive Chairman Vijay R. Kirloskar, lauded Tata’s impact on the industrial sector: “We at Kirloskar Electric pay tribute to Mr. Ratan Tata, a visionary leader who transformed industries and inspired generations.”
Vardhman Group, a major textile conglomerate, remembered Tata as a “true Bharat Ratna” whose humility, compassion, and integrity were unmatched. “He showed that success is not just about one’s own achievement, but about uplifting others with dignity and respect,” the statement read, emphasizing his philanthropic vision and ethical leadership.
Smaller companies and regional businesses also expressed their condolences. Dada Motors, a JLR and Tata Hitachi dealer, released an ad thanking Tata for “unwavering association for decades.” Lucas-TVS, Delphi-TVS, and Lucas Indian Service also mourned the loss of “a man who embodied the spirit of India with integrity and compassion.”
Philanthropy Institutions and Tributes from the Healthcare Sector
Philanthropy was a cornerstone of Ratan Tata’s life, and his impact on healthcare and social causes was widely recognized. Chennai’s Sankara Nethralaya, where Tata had received the Sankara Ratna Award in 2002, paid tribute: “His words—‘The true measure of success is not in what you achieve, but in how you impact others positively’—will inspire generations to come.”
Other organizations, such as Jainex Limited, hailed Tata as a “true Bharat Ratna,” emphasizing his humanity and contributions to society. Venky’s India, Amul, and other notable Indian companies also expressed their grief, with Amul’s iconic sketch paying a touching tribute to the “Poore vatan ka Ratan” (The nation’s gem), a reflection of how deeply Tata was cherished by all sections of Indian society.
Tata Steel released a full-page tribute: “Ratan Tata was a visionary leader whose impact went beyond our company, transforming the nation itself. His legacy of innovation, integrity, and philanthropy will continue to inspire us all. His deep commitment to the community and his compassionate leadership have left an everlasting imprint on the fabric of our country. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate his extraordinary life, vowing to carry forward the values he held dear.”
South Indian textile showroom chain Pothys also paid homage with their own message: “Padma Vibhushan Ratan Naval Tata – our heartfelt farewell to an iconic figure and illustrious son of India. A legendary leader, a beacon of integrity, and a remarkable human being, his legacy of excellence and philanthropy will be forever etched in India’s history.”
A Nation Bids Farewell
As India reflects on the loss of one of its greatest visionaries, Ratan Tata’s legacy remains a testament to the power of ethical leadership, innovation, and compassion. From spearheading India’s industrial growth to championing social causes and philanthropy, Tata’s contributions have left an indelible mark that will resonate for generations to come. His passing is not just a loss for the Tata Group but for the entire nation, which will remember him as a guiding light in both business and service to society.
The world mourns the loss of a legend, but Ratan Tata’s legacy of excellence, integrity, and service will continue to inspire and uplift people far beyond India’s borders.
