Ratan Tata, one of India's most influential industrialists and Tata Sons Chairman Emeritus, passed away in a Mumbai hospital last night. The 86-year-old business icon was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital due to age-related ailments.

"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 Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran in a press statement.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Tata, lauding him as a visionary leader and compassionate soul. "One of the most unique aspects of Shri Ratan Tata Ji was his passion towards dreaming big and giving back. He was at the forefront of championing causes like education, healthcare, sanitation, and animal welfare, to name a few," Modi shared on X.

Ratan Tata led the Tata Group as chairman for more than 20 years, taking over in 1991 from his uncle, JRD Tata. During his tenure, the autos-to-steel conglomerate saw significant growth, including the founding of Tata Teleservices in 1996 and the public listing of Tata Consultancy Services in 2004.

After stepping down in 2012, Tata held the title of chairman emeritus across several key companies, including Tata Motors, Tata Steel, and Tata Chemicals. A graduate of Cornell University, Tata began his career in 1962, contributing to various Tata companies, notably turning around the National Radio and Electronics Company.

Under his leadership, the Tata Group made landmark acquisitions, including the purchase of British tea firm Tetley in 2000 and Anglo-Dutch steelmaker Corus in 2007. In 2008, Tata Motors bought Jaguar and Land Rover from Ford Motor Company for $2.3 billion.

One of Tata's notable projects was the Tata Indica, the first car designed and built in India. Another, the Tata Nano, envisioned as the world's cheapest car at 1,00,000 rupees (approximately $1,200), faced setbacks and was eventually discontinued a decade after its launch.

Ratan Tata, a licensed pilot, was known for his quiet demeanor, modest lifestyle, and extensive philanthropic work. About two-thirds of Tata Sons' share capital is held by charitable trusts.

His tenure wasn't without controversy. A public feud erupted after the 2016 ousting of Cyrus Mistry as chairman of Tata Sons, with accusations from both sides regarding management and interference.

In recent years, Tata became a prominent investor in Indian startups, supporting companies like Paytm, Ola Electric, and Urban Company.

For his outstanding contributions to Indian industry, Ratan Tata was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian honor, in 2008.

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