Ratan Tata, the visionary chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, one of India’s largest and most influential conglomerates, passed away at the age of 86 at Breach Candy Hospital, Mumbai, on Thursday. His demise marks the end of an era for Indian industry and society at large. Tata had been admitted to the hospital in recent days, battling health complications.

Tata, who led the Tata Group from 1991 to 2012, is remembered not only for transforming the business landscape but also for his deep-rooted commitment to philanthropy and nation-building. Under his stewardship, Tata Sons grew to global prominence, with significant expansions and innovations in diverse sectors, including steel, automotive, telecommunications, and hospitality.

In a heartfelt statement, Tata Sons chairman N. Chandrasekaran paid tribute to Tata’s immense contributions, stating, “His contributions shaped the very fabric of India.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow, calling Ratan Tata a “visionary business leader” and a “compassionate soul.” He remarked, “Shri Ratan Tata Ji provided stable leadership to one of India’s oldest and most prestigious business houses. At the same time, his contribution went far beyond the boardroom. He endeared himself to several people thanks to his humility, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to making our society better.”

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Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also paid his respects, highlighting Tata’s dual impact on business and philanthropy. “Ratan Tata was a man with a vision. He has left a lasting mark on both business and philanthropy. My condolences to his family and the Tata community,” said Gandhi.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin referred to Tata as a “true titan of Indian industry” and a beacon of humility. “His visionary leadership not only shaped the Tata Group but also set a global benchmark for ethical business practices,” Stalin said, acknowledging the far-reaching impact of Tata’s dedication to innovation and nation-building.

While the president of Indian National Congress (INC) Mallikarjun Kharge remembered Ratan Tata as the ‘Invaluable son of India’. In an emotional write on X, Kharge wrote, “In the passing away of Shri Ratan Naval Tata, we have lost an invaluable son of India. A philanthropist par excellence whose commitment to India’s inclusive growth and development remained paramount, Shri Tata was synonymous with unequivocal integrity and ethical leadership. He was an inspiration and an icon for millions of people and richly contributed to nation building. Our condolences to his loved ones and admirers.”

Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee also expressed her condolences on the demise of Ratan Tata. In a post on X, she posted, “Saddened by the demise of Ratan Tata, Chairman Emeritus of the Tata Sons. The former Chairman of Tata Group had been a foremost leader of Indian industries and a public-spirited philanthropist. His demise will be an irreparable loss for Indian business world and society. My condolences to all his family members and colleagues.”

Home minister Amit Shah also pays tribute to the philanthropist and industrialist Ratan Tata. In a post on social media platfrom x, Shah said, “Deeply saddened by the demise of legendary industrialist and true nationalist, Shri Ratan Tata Ji. He selflessly dedicated his life to the development of our nation. Every time I met him, his zeal and commitment to the betterment of Bharat and its people amazed me. His commitment to the welfare of our country and its people led to the blooming of millions of dreams. Time cannot take away Ratan Tata Ji from his beloved nation. He will live on in our hearts. My condolences to Tata Group and his countless admirers. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti.”

“Saddened by the passing away of Shri Ratan Tata. He was a Titan of the Indian industry known for his monumental contributions to our economy, trade and industry. My deepest condolences to his family, friends and admirers. May his soul rest in peace,” wrote Rajnath Singh in a post on X.

Additionally, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia,Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Govt. of India also expressed his condolences on the dath of Ratan Tata. “The end of an era! Shri Ratan Tata set a new paradigm in leadership that espoused the values of integrity and compassion. Indeed, he has left an indelible mark in the world of business, and the society at large. It was an honour to have known you. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, Titan!.” he wrote in a post on X.