Mumbai, India — Ratan Tata, the revered industrialist who transformed Tata Group into one of India’s largest multinational conglomerates, has passed away at the age of 86, the company confirmed today. Known for his leadership and humanitarian values, Tata was one of India’s most internationally recognized business figures.
Tata Group, which he led for over two decades, now generates annual revenues exceeding $100 billion. The current chairman of Tata Sons praised Tata in a statement, calling him a “truly uncommon leader.”
Born in 1937 into a prominent Parsi family, Ratan Tata studied architecture and structural engineering at Cornell University. He began his career in 1962 with Tata Industries, later moving to Tata Steel, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), and National Radio and Electronics (Nelco).
In 1991, Ratan Tata succeeded his mentor, JRD Tata, as the group’s chairman. Reflecting on their relationship, Tata once said, “He was like a father and a brother to me.”
Tata’s achievements extended beyond business. In 2008, he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honor, for his contributions to industry and philanthropy.
His passing marks the end of an era in Indian business, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, innovation, and global ambition.