Ratan Tata passes away at 86

Ratan Tata was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian honour, in 2000, followed by the Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian honour in 2008.

Ratan Tata, Chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, has passed away following a prolonged illness. He was 86.

Tata was recently admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital for a routine health check-up. He even took to social media to dismiss speculations surrounding his health and said that he was undergoing “routine health investigations due to his age."

On Wednesday evening, he was reportedly moved to the ICU and was in a critical condition. In a late-night statement, N Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons,  confirmed the passing of Mr. Tata.

"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," Chandrasekaran said.

The Chairman went on to state, "For the Tata Group, Mr. Tata was more than a chairperson. To me, he was a mentor, guide and friend. He inspired by example. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation, the Tata Group under his stewardship expanded its global footprint while always remaining true to its moral compass. From education to healthcare, his initiatives have left a deep-rooted mark that will benefit generations to come."

Founded in 1868, the Tata Group is one of India’s biggest and oldest business conglomerates. Ratan Tata was appointed chairman in 1991. Tata Nano, the world’s cheapest car, was developed under his leadership. In 2004, the Tata Group acquired the famous British brands Jaguar and Land Rover.