Indian business tycoon Ratan Tata has been died at the age of 86 and cremated.
Tata was widely regarded as one of India’s most internationally recognized business leaders, transforming the Tata Group into a global conglomerate with annual revenues exceeding $100 billion. Tata’s influence also extended to Ghana, where Tata vehicles were once popular. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Tata buses were a common sight in the country, providing public transportation for thousands of Ghanaians. In the early 2000s, Tata SUV and saloon cars gained traction, solidifying the brand’s presence in the Ghanaian automotive market.
In a statement following Tata’s death, Natarajan Chandrasekaran, current chairman of Tata Sons, described him as a “truly uncommon leader,” adding, “On behalf of the entire Tata family, I extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones. His legacy will continue to inspire us as we strive to uphold the principles he so passionately championed.”
During his tenure, Ratan Tata oversaw high-profile acquisitions, including Anglo-Dutch steelmaker Corus, the UK-based car brands Jaguar and Land Rover, and Tetley, the world’s second-largest tea company. His leadership transformed Tata into a global powerhouse, with the company leaving its mark across industries.
UK Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds paid tribute to Tata, calling him a “titan of the business world” who “played a huge role in shaping British industry.”
The Economist, in a 2011 profile, also hailed him as a “titan,” noting his transformation of the Tata family group. Tata retired as chairman of the Tata Group in 2012 and was named chairman emeritus of Tata Sons. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Tata as a “visionary business leader, a compassionate soul, and an extraordinary human being.”
Born in 1937 in a traditional Parsi family, Tata studied architecture and structural engineering at Cornell University. He joined Tata Industries in 1962 and worked across various subsidiaries, including Tata Steel, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), and Nelco. In 1991, he succeeded JRD Tata, his mentor and the group’s long-time leader. Throughout his career, Tata received numerous accolades, including the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honor, in 2008.
Despite his achievements, he maintained a humble demeanor, often praised for his simplicity and deep affection for animals, especially dogs. Tata’s passion extended beyond business, with a love for fast cars, planes, and scuba diving. His connection to his pets was well-documented, with Tata expressing in interviews the joy and companionship they brought him over the years.
Ratan Tata will be remembered not only for his business acumen but also for his enduring humility and kindness. His funeral was held on Thursday. Business leaders, politicians and celebrities were among thousands of people who paid their last respects at the centre where his body lay in state before being cremated.
