Ratan Tata's last social media post

Ratan Tata dies at the age of 86

Ratan Tata, the former Tata Group chairman who put the Indian conglomerate on the world stage with a series of high-profile acquisitions, has died, the Tata Group said in a statement late on Wednesday. He was 86.

Just two days ago, on Monday, the industrialist had debunked the rumors circulating about his health in a social media post and told his followers: “Thank you for thinking of me.”

“I am aware of recent rumors regarding my health and would like to reassure everyone that these claims are unfounded. Due to my age and related health problems, I am currently undergoing a medical examination. I continue to be in good spirits…” Mr. Tata had said in his social media post.

Thank you for thinking of me 🤍 pic.twitter.com/MICi6zVH99

– Ratan N. Tata (@RNTata2000) October 7, 2024

“I urge the public and the media not to spread misinformation,” the 86-year-old said in his last social media post.

Announcing the death, Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran praised the industrialist's unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity and innovation.

“It is with a deep sense of loss that we bid farewell to Mr. Ratan Naval Tata, a truly unusual leader whose immeasurable contributions shaped not only the Tata Group but also the fabric of our nation,” Mr. Chandrasekaran said.

“For the Tata Group, Mr. Tata was more than just a chairman. For me he was a mentor, guide and friend. He inspired by his example. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity and innovation, the Tata Group was under his leadership.” “We have expanded our global footprint while always remaining true to our moral compass,” he added.

Mr. Chandrasekaran referred to Mr. Tata's commitment to philanthropy and said, “From education to healthcare, his initiatives have left a deep-rooted mark that will benefit future generations.”

As the news spread, tributes poured in from friends, industry colleagues and film stars.

Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra said he was unable to accept Tata's absence and all that could be done now was to emulate his example.

Industrialist Gautam Adan said, “Legends like him never disappear.”

RPG Enterprises Chairman Harsh Goenka hailed the industrialist as a “beacon of integrity”.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the tycoon as a “compassionate soul” and said he had “provided stable leadership to one of India's oldest business houses.”

“Shri Ratan Tata Ji was a visionary business leader, a compassionate soul and an extraordinary human being. He ensured stable leadership of one of the oldest and most renowned business houses in India. At the same time, his contribution went far beyond the boardroom. “He was popular,” the Prime Minister said in a series of posts on X.

Ratan Tata became chairman of the $100 billion conglomerate that turns steel into software in 1991 and led the group founded by his great-grandfather more than a century ago until 2012.

He founded the telecommunications company Tata Teleservices in 1996 and took the IT company Tata Consultancy Services public in 2004.

Long after his retirement, Mr. Tata remained a popular figure on social media, with heartfelt posts about animal rights (especially dogs) and appeals to Indian citizens.