**Mumbai, October 10, 2024** – Ratan Naval Tata, chairman emeritus of Tata Sons and one of India’s most iconic business leaders, passed away at the age of 86. Tata, who had recently dispelled rumors about his health, died following what was described as routine medical investigations due to his age. N Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons, made the announcement late Wednesday, expressing deep sorrow at the loss of a man he described as “more than a chairperson.” In his tribute, Chandrasekaran hailed Tata’s unmatched contributions to the group and to India. “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 Chandrasekaran. He reflected on Tata’s leadership and personal influence, stating, “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.”Tata’s legacy extends far beyond his business achievements. Chandrasekaran emphasized the lasting impact of his philanthropic initiatives, particularly in education and healthcare. “His initiatives have left a deep-rooted mark that will benefit generations to come,” he added.As news of Tata’s death broke, tributes poured in from across industries and public life. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation in mourning, describing Tata as a “visionary business leader” and an “extraordinary human being.”In a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter), Modi said, “Shri Ratan Tata Ji was a compassionate soul and an extraordinary human being. He provided stable leadership to one of India’s oldest and most prestigious business houses. His contribution went far beyond the boardroom. He endeared himself to many thanks to his humility, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to making our society better.”Political leader Rahul Gandhi also shared his condolences, saying, “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.”Ratan Tata led the Tata Group as its chairman from 1991 to 2012, taking the conglomerate to unprecedented global heights. Under his leadership, Tata Motors acquired British car brands Jaguar and Land Rover, and Tata Steel made a historic acquisition of Corus, a European steel giant. These moves cemented the group’s global presence.Beyond business, Tata’s humanitarian efforts were notable. He was a strong advocate of philanthropy, and his leadership saw the Tata Trusts invest significantly in education, healthcare, and rural development. His contributions during times of crisis, such as the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and the COVID-19 pandemic, further endeared him to the nation.Ratan Tata’s legacy will be remembered not only for his visionary business decisions but also for his humility and commitment to social causes. His leadership transformed Tata Sons into one of the world’s most respected conglomerates, while his philanthropic endeavors ensured that the Tata name became synonymous with trust and compassion.As India mourns the loss of one of its most respected figures, Ratan Tata’s indelible mark on the nation’s economic and social landscape will remain a source of inspiration for generations to come.