Ratan Tata: Titan of Industry and Philanthropy Dies at 86

Ratan Tata, a renowned Indian businessman and philanthropist, passed away at the age of 86 in Mumbai. Born in 1937, Tata joined Tata Group in 1961 and became Chairman of Tata Sons in 1991. He led Tata Group for 21 years.

Life and Career Highlights

Born on December 28, 1937, in Mumbai, India
Education: Cornell University (Architecture), Harvard Business School (Advanced Management Program)
Joined Tata Group in 1961, working on the shop floor of Tata Steel
Became Chairman of Tata Sons in 1991, succeeding J.R.D. Tata
Led Tata Group for 21 years (1991-2012)
Briefly returned as interim chairman from October 2016 to February 2017
Passed away on October 9, 2024, at Breach Candy Hospital, Mumbai, aged 86

Business Achievements and Legacy

Transformed Tata Group from India-centric to global conglomerate

Key acquisitions under his leadership:

- Tetley (2000) for $450 million
- Corus Steel (2007) for £6.2 billion
- Jaguar Land Rover (2008) for $2.3 billion
Launched Tata Nano, the world's most affordable car
Expanded Tata Group's presence in IT sector with TCS going public in 2004
Increased group's revenue from ₹10,000 crore in 1991 to over $100 billion by 2012
Grew international revenue to 65% of total by 2012
Established Tata as a globally recognized brand
Implemented reforms within Tata Group, focusing on succession planning and younger talent

Philanthropic Endeavors

Heavily involved with Tata Trusts, supporting education, health, and development initiatives
Donated approximately 60-65% of his income to charity
Made significant contributions to Cornell University, including a $50 million donation in 2008
Supported cancer research, rural development, and disaster relief efforts
Received Assam Baibhav award in 2021 for improving cancer care in Assam
Known for his commitment to social responsibility over personal wealth accumulation

Honors and Personal Life

Received Padma Vibhushan (2008) and Padma Bhushan (2000), India's second and third highest civilian honors
Appointed Knight Grand Cross of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire
Awarded Lifetime Achievement Award by the Rockefeller Foundation
Known for his humble lifestyle and low-profile personal life
Never married, maintained close ties with family
Passionate about cars, planes, and architecture
Respected globally for his business acumen and ethical leadership

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