Indian Business Icon Ratan Tata Passes Away at 86 in Mumbai Hospital

ISLAMABAD: Ratan Tata, the esteemed chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, passed away at the age of 86. He had recently addressed health speculations, stating he was undergoing routine medical checks due to his age.

Tata helmed the $100 billion Tata Group from 1991 to 2012, steering it through significant expansions, including the launch of Tata Teleservices and the public offering of Tata Consultancy Services.

Under his leadership, the Tata Group acquired British automotive icons Jaguar and Land Rover and introduced the Tata Nano, famously dubbed the world’s cheapest car, in 2009. Despite stepping back from daily operations, Tata remained active in philanthropy and was a beloved figure on social media, advocating for animal rights and engaging with millions of followers.

Born in 1937, Tata was raised by his grandmother and educated at Cornell and Harvard. He leaves behind a legacy of innovation and social responsibility, embodying the values of the Tata Group founded by his great-grandfather.

Honours

In 2008, he received the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second- highest civilian honour. He had received the Padma Bhushan, the third highest, in 2000.

Largest Shareholder in Tata Group

The largest shareholder in Tata Group is another Parsee businessman Pallonji Shapoorji Mistry, whose 18% stake is worth 5 billion pound. His son-in-law, Noel, is also Ratan Tata’s half brother.