Tata led the Indian conglomerate for over two decades, transforming it into a global powerhouse with annual revenues exceeding $100bn.
Ratan Tata, the former chairman of the Tata Group, has died at the age of 86, the company announced today.
Tata led the Indian conglomerate for over two decades, transforming it into a global powerhouse with annual revenues exceeding $100 billion (£76.5 billion).
“On behalf of the entire Tata family, I extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones. His legacy will continue to inspire us as we strive to uphold the principles he so passionately championed,” Natarajan Chandrasekaran, the current chairman of Tata Sons, said in a statement.
— Tata Group (@TataCompanies) October 9, 2024
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Tata on social media, describing him as a “visionary business leader, a compassionate soul and an extraordinary human being.”
Shri Ratan Tata Ji was a visionary business leader, a compassionate soul and an extraordinary human being. He provided stable leadership to one of India’s oldest and most prestigious business houses. At the same time, his contribution went far beyond the boardroom. He endeared… pic.twitter.com/p5NPcpBbBD
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 9, 2024
Ratan Tata’s modest leadership
During his tenure, Tata oversaw several high-profile acquisitions, including Corus, Jaguar Land Rover, and Tetley.
Born in 1937, Tata joined the family business in 1962 after studying in the United States. He was appointed chairman in 1991 by his predecessor, JRD Tata, whom he later described as his “greatest mentor.”
Despite his business success, Tata was known for his modesty and reserve. He had a passion for fast cars, planes, and scuba diving. He was also a dog lover, often speaking about his pets in interviews.
