Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has announced that legendary industrialist Ratan Tata, who passed away at the age of 86, will be given a state funeral. Tata died late Wednesday night at a Mumbai hospital, leaving behind an indelible legacy in both business and philanthropy.
In a heartfelt tribute, Shinde praised Tata as a unique blend of morality and entrepreneurship. Describing him as a “living legend,” the CM reflected on Tata’s role in successfully leading the Tata Group, a 150-year-old institution. “Ratan Ji Tata’s mortal remains will be accorded a state funeral,” Shinde confirmed in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Remembering Tata’s resilience, Shinde also recalled Tata’s leadership during the 26/11 terror attacks. The iconic Taj Hotel, a Tata Group property, was one of the sites targeted by terrorists during the November 2008 attack. Tata’s steadfast response during the crisis became a defining moment in his leadership legacy.
खो गया देश का अनमोल रत्न रतनजी टाटा नैतिकता और उद्यमशीलता के अपूर्व और आदर्श संगम थे.लगभग 150 वर्षों की उत्कृष्टता और अखंडता की परंपरा वाले टाटा ग्रुप की कमान सफलतापूर्वक संभालने वाले रतनजी टाटा एक जीवित किवदंती थे.उन्होंने समय-समय पर जिस निर्णय क्षमता और मानसिक दृढ़ता का परिचय… https://t.co/u6MdkdheCC
— Eknath Shinde – एकनाथ शिंदे (@mieknathshinde) October 9, 2024
Meanwhile, Tata Group has informed that Ratan Tata’s mortal remains will be kept at the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) Lawns in South Mumbai today from 10 am to 4 pm, allowing the public to pay their respects.
“We request the members of the public to enter NCPA Lawns from Gate 3 and the exit will be at Gate 2. There will be no parking available at the premises. At 4pm, the mortal remains will embark on its final journey to the Prayer Hall at the Worli Crematorium, Dr E Moses Road, Worli for the final rites,” the statement read.
The Tata family also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and respect following Ratan Tata’s passing. The family stated, “We, his brothers, sisters, and family, take solace in the immense affection from all who admired him. While he is no longer with us, his legacy of humility, generosity, and purpose will continue to inspire future generations.”
N Chandrasekaran, the chairman of Tata Sons, also paid tribute to Tata’s contributions, calling him “a truly uncommon leader.” He spoke of Tata’s dedication to the Tata Group, noting that Tata was much more than a corporate head. He was a mentor, guide, and friend to many, including Chandrasekaran. Tata’s leadership was marked by an unwavering commitment to integrity, excellence and innovation, expanding the group’s global footprint while staying true to moral values. Chandrasekaran concluded by stating, “His legacy will continue to inspire us as we strive to uphold the principles he so passionately championed.”
