Indian tycoon Ratan Tata has died at the age of 86
Indian tycoon Ratan Tata has passed away at the age of 86, as confirmed by the Tata Group, which he led for over two decades. A highly respected figure, Tata was one of India’s most internationally recognized business leaders. The Tata Group is one of India’s largest conglomerates, boasting annual revenues exceeding $100 billion (£76.5 billion).
In a statement regarding his passing, Natarajan Chandrasekaran, the current chairman of Tata Sons, called him a “truly uncommon leader” and extended heartfelt condolences to his family. He added, “His legacy will continue to inspire us as we strive to uphold the principles he so passionately championed.”
During his tenure, Tata oversaw several significant acquisitions, including the Anglo-Dutch steelmaker Corus, British car brands Jaguar and Land Rover, and Tetley, the world’s second-largest tea company. UK Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds referred to Tata as a “titan of the business world,” acknowledging his substantial influence on British industry.
In a 2011 profile, The Economist described Tata as a “titan,” highlighting his role in transforming the family group into a “global powerhouse.” Despite owning less than 1% of the company that bears his family name, he was regarded as one of the most powerful businessmen in India and a major global influencer.
Tata retired as chairman in 2012 and was later named chairman emeritus of Tata Sons. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised him as a “visionary business leader, a compassionate soul, and an extraordinary human being.” Modi expressed his deep sorrow over Tata’s passing, recalling their many interactions.
His body is currently at a cultural center in Mumbai for public viewing, and a state funeral is planned for later today. Born in a traditional Parsi family in 1937, Tata studied architecture and structural engineering at Cornell University in the U.S. He began his career with Tata Industries in 1962, training at a plant in Jamshedpur before moving on to various companies within the group.
In 1991, he was appointed as JRD Tata’s successor. Ratan Tata described JRD as his “greatest mentor,” emphasizing their close relationship. In recognition of his contributions, he received the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honor, in 2008. Author Peter Casey noted Tata’s modesty and discipline, describing him as a “reserved” man with a “stately calm.”
Tata was involved in a management dispute in 2016 when his successor, Cyrus Mistry, was ousted, a situation that led to a public feud. Mistry tragically passed away in a car accident in 2022.
Beyond business, Tata had a lighter side, known for his passion for fast cars and planes. He was also an avid scuba diving enthusiast, although he eventually had to give it up due to health concerns. A dog lover at heart, he often spoke about the joy his pets brought him throughout his life.
“My love for dogs is unwavering,” he once said, expressing the sadness he felt with each loss and his resolve to bring new pets into his life. He was also celebrated for his simplicity; a viral video from 2022 showed him driving a Nano, one of his ambitious but ultimately unsuccessful projects.