#EndOfAnEra: Tributes reflect on Ratan Tata's contributions to India
What's the story
Former Tata Sons chairman Ratan Tata passed away on Wednesday night at the age of 86.
His death has triggered an outpouring of tributes from industry leaders, politicians, bollywood stars, and the public.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi called him "a visionary business leader, a compassionate soul and an extraordinary human being."
He lauded Tata's leadership of one of India's oldest and most prestigious business houses.
Legacy
Sundar Pichai pays tribute to Tata's business acumen, philanthropic endeavors
Modi stressed that Tata's impact went beyond his corporate avatar, adding his humility, kindness, and dedication to making the world a better place.
Google and Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai also paid tribute to Tata's business acumen and philanthropic endeavors.
Pichai noted Tata's contribution to shaping modern business leadership in India through mentorship.
Twitter Post
Pichai recalls meeting Tata at Google
My last meeting with Ratan Tata at Google, we talked about the progress of Waymo and his vision was inspiring to hear. He leaves an extraordinary business and philanthropic legacy and was instrumental in mentoring and developing the modern business leadership in India. He deeply…
— Sundar Pichai (@sundarpichai) October 9, 2024
Expansion
Tata's global expansion and high-profile acquisitions
Tata is credited with taking his business house global with several high-profile acquisitions, including Jaguar-Land Rover in 2008.
Mukesh Ambani, chairman of Reliance Group, expressed his condolences saying, "Ratan Tata's passing away is a big loss, not just to the Tata Group, but to every Indian."
He praised Tata for taking India to the world and bringing the best of it back home.
Twitter Post
Ambani pays tribute to Tata's passing away
It is a very sad day for India and India Inc. Ratan Tata's passing away is a big loss, not just to the Tata Group, but to every Indian.
— Reliance Industries Limited (@RIL_Updates) October 9, 2024
At a personal level, the passing of Ratan Tata has filled me with immense grief as I lost a dear friend. Each of my numerous interactions with…
Philanthropy
Tata's philanthropy and societal contributions
A Cornell University alumnus, Tata joined the family business in 1962 and was known for his philanthropy.
He chaired Tata Trusts, one of India's largest charity organizations.
N Chandrasekaran, the current chairman of Tata Sons, said Tata's dedication to philanthropy and societal development has touched millions of lives.
Twitter Post
Here's what Union Home Minister said about Tata
Deeply saddened by the demise of legendary industrialist and true nationalist, Shri Ratan Tata Ji.
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) October 9, 2024
He selflessly dedicated his life to the development of our nation. Every time I met him, his zeal and commitment to the betterment of Bharat and its people amazed me. His commitment… pic.twitter.com/TJOp8skXCo
Impact
Tata's leadership expanded group's global footprint
Chandrasekaran praised Tata for his commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation.
He said that under Tata's leadership, the Tata Group expanded its global footprint while staying true to its moral compass.
Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani called Tata "a giant, a visionary who redefined modern India's path."
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman called him a "leader par excellence, visionary industrialist, and philanthropist whose contributions have left an indelible mark on our society."
Twitter Post
Take a look at Sitharaman's post
Saddened by the passing away of Shri Ratan Tata, a leader par excellence, visionary industrialist, and philanthropist whose contributions have left an indelible mark on our society.
— Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) October 10, 2024
His deep resolve to innovation, ethical business practices, and social responsibility… pic.twitter.com/gVlzSZYudz
Influence
Tata's role in India's economic growth
Mahindra Group chairman Anand Mahindra, too, expressed sorrow over Tata's death at a time when the Indian economy is poised for significant growth.
He said, "Ratan's life and work have had much to do with our being in this position."
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced that Tata would be accorded a state funeral, calling him an "invaluable gem."
Twitter Post
Unable to accept the absence of Ratan Tata, laments Mahindra
I am unable to accept the absence of Ratan Tata.
— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) October 9, 2024
India’s economy stands on the cusp of a historic leap forward.
And Ratan’s life and work have had much to do with our being in this position.
Hence, his mentorship and guidance at this point in time would have been invaluable.… pic.twitter.com/ujJC2ehTTs