N Chandrasekaran, the chairman of Tata Sons, announced the death, in a statement on Wednesday.
“It is with a profound sense of loss that we bid farewell to Mr. Ratan Naval Tata, a truly uncommon leader whose immeasurable contributions have shaped not only the Tata Group but also the very fabric of our nation,” said Mr Chandrasekaran.
Tata’s passing has sent shockwaves across the nation, with tributes pouring in from all corners, including from startup founders and tech personalities.
Business leaders and industry veterans from all spheres of economy, took to X, mourning at the loss.
Google CEO Sundar Pichai hailed Tata as a mentor for India who developed the modern business leadership. “He leaves an extraordinary business and philanthropic legacy and was instrumental in mentoring and developing the modern business leadership in India. He deeply cared about making India better. Deep condolences to his loved ones and Rest in Peace Shri Ratan Tata Ji,” Pichai posted on X.
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Infosys, dedicated a post for Ratan Tata on its official account paying tribute to the legacy Tata has built that goes on from generations and beyond. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Ratan Tata, a visionary leader who transformed industries and touched countless lives through his integrity, innovation and philanthropy. His legacy will continue to inspire generations”, the tweet said.
Rishad Premji, chairman of Wipro wrote, “Mr Tata’s loss will be deeply felt. An extraordinary man, he not only elevated India’s presence on the global stage, but also truly institutionalised philanthropy. We are a richer nation thanks to him, and poorer to have lost him. Go well, Mr Tata,” he tweeted.
Amrish Rau, founder of Fintech and Pine Labs posted in admiration of Tata’s “class, dignity and elegance”.
Ratan Tata had class, dignity & elegance. And he displayed it everyday, Rau said.
Abhiraj Singh Bhal, cofounder and CEO of Urban Company penned a long note, recalling his very first meeting with Ratan Tata in 2015.
“In our very first meeting with him back in 2015, he told us, “India needs what you are building, keep the quality high and the rest will follow”. We at @urbancompany_UC were fortunate to have him join us subsequently as a shareholder, and derive immense inspiration from his words and the values he stood for. Some men do live on forever. Salute to the greatest Indian I have ever met.”
The mortal remains of the veteran industrialist were taken to NCPA lawns for members of the public to pay their last respects. The last rites are expected to begin at 3:30 pm.