Mumbai: Ratan Naval Tata, former chairman of Tata Sons, breathed his last on Thursday. The 86-year-old industrialist was admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital on Monday after his blood pressure dropped dramatically.
A statement issued by Tata Sons chairman, N Chandrasekaran said, “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.”
A source from the Maharashtra government confirmed that Tata was kept on a ventilator in the ICU of the hospital after his health worsened.
Mr. Chandrasekaran further said, “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.”
Taking to Twitter, Harsh Goenka wrote, “The clock has stopped ticking. The Titan passes away. #RatanTata was a beacon of integrity, ethical leadership and philanthropy, who has imprinted an indelible mark on the world of business and beyond. He will forever soar high in our memories.”
After his hospitalisation, Tata personally issued a statement on Instagram on the same day stating that he was undergoing medical check-ups due to his age and related medical conditions. “I am aware of recent rumours circulating regarding my health and want to assure everyone that these claims are unfounded. I am currently undergoing medical check-ups due to my age and related medical conditions. There is no cause for concern,” Tata posted on Instagram.
Ratan Tata served as the chairman of the Tata Group conglomerate from 1990 to 2012. From October 2016 to February 2017, he also served as the interim chairman. Notably, Ratan Tata continues to oversee the group’s charitable trusts. He was awarded by the Indian Government with the country's highest civilian awards – Padma Bhushan in 2000 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2008 – for his contributions to the industry and society.
