Ratan Tata, the revered stalwart of the Tata Group, has passed away at the age of 86, leaving an indelible mark on Indian industry and society. Under his visionary leadership, the Tata Group transformed into a global powerhouse, with operations in over 100 countries across six continents. His commitment to philanthropy saw more than 65% of the group’s profits reinvested in healthcare, education and social welfare.

Born in 1937 and raised by his grandmother after losing his parents, Ratan Tata pursued architecture at Cornell University and completed a management program at Harvard Business School. He joined Tata Steel in 1961, starting from the ground up. His ascent as chairman from 1991 to 2012 coincided with India's economic liberalization, during which the group’s revenue soared 40-fold.

Tata’s tenure was marked by significant milestones, including the acquisition of Jaguar Land Rover and Tata Steel’s purchase of Corus. His commitment to innovation led to the creation of the Tata Nano, a car designed for affordability. His leadership style combined business acumen with a deep sense of social responsibility, as exemplified by the Tata Group’s substantial contribution during the Covid-19 crisis.

Tata’s return to the helm in 2016, albeit briefly, was marked by his decisive action to remove Cyrus Mistry as chairman. He was also a passionate animal lover and supporter of numerous causes, including a plan to protect stray dogs in Mumbai.

Though Ratan Tata has departed, his legacy of integrity, philanthropy and corporate excellence will continue to inspire generations. His profound impact on both business and society is a testament to his belief that true success lies in uplifting others.