Ratan Tata, chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, dies at 86

Ratan Tata, former chairman of Tata Group, passed away on October 9 at the age of 86 after a prolonged illness. He had been in critical condition and receiving intensive care in the hospital for several days. A visionary leader who shaped some of India’s largest businesses, Tata once expressed in an interview that he hoped to be remembered as someone who made a difference — and indeed, he did.

Born into a prominent industrialist family in 1937 in Mumbai, Tata was steeped in a legacy of leadership and innovation. He pursued his education in the United States, studying architecture and structural engineering at Cornell University, laying the foundation for what would become a remarkable career. Over the decades, Tata emerged as a visionary, transforming the Tata Group into a global powerhouse, leaving an indelible mark on India’s industrial and philanthropic landscape.

One of the most prominent luxury ventures under Tata’s leadership was the Taj Hotels. Originally founded in 1903 by Jamsetji Tata, the brand saw significant global expansion during Ratan Tata’s tenure. The portfolio grew to include over 100 hotels in more than 60 locations worldwide, with prestigious acquisitions like The Pierre in New York, St. James’ Court in London and Campton Place in San Francisco. This expansion supported the brand’s global appeal, particularly in the luxury segment.

Financially, under Tata’s leadership, the Taj Group flourished. By 2012, the Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), which operates Taj Hotels, reported annual revenue exceeding INR 2,800 crore (approximately $500 million). Tata’s strategic focus on global expansion and high-profile acquisitions significantly contributed to the group’s profitability, solidifying Taj Hotels as a dominant player in the luxury hospitality market.

In the automotive sector, Ratan Tata orchestrated a groundbreaking acquisition that would further elevate India’s standing in global business. In 2008, Tata Motors acquired Jaguar and Land Rover (JLR) for INR 9,200 crore ($2.3 billion). This acquisition was met with initial skepticism, as Tata Motors was known for its affordable vehicles, and many questioned whether the company could manage such iconic luxury brands. However, under Tata’s leadership, JLR experienced a significant resurgence, with profits surging by 2013, contributing substantially to Tata Motors’ overall revenue. By 2015, JLR posted a pre-tax profit of approximately INR 26,500 crore ($3.7 billion), and as of 2024, it recorded its highest-ever annual revenue of INR 2.6 lakh crore (£29 billion), a 27% year-on-year increase.

In 2015, Tata Sons partnered with Singapore Airlines to launch Vistara, marking Tata’s re-entry into the aviation sector. Tata envisioned Vistara as a premium, full-service airline offering an exceptional luxury experience—a contrast to the rise of budget carriers in India. Vistara quickly distinguished itself through its premium cabin offerings, such as Business Class with fully-flat beds and an exclusive Premium Economy segment. The airline has since expanded rapidly, operating both domestic and international routes, and has played a vital role in enhancing the Tata Group’s portfolio of luxury offerings.

Under his leadership, Tata really grew into a global business empire worth over $100 billion. In December 2012, Tata retired from his position and was succeeded by Cyrus Mistry, who passed away in a car accident in 2022.

Anand Mahindra took to X and said, “I am unable to accept the absence of  Ratan Tata.  India’s economy stands on the cusp of a historic leap forward.  And Ratan’s life and work have had much to do with our being in this position. Hence, his mentorship and guidance at this point in time would have been invaluable.  With him gone, all we can do is to commit to emulating his example. Because he was a businessman for whom financial wealth and success was most useful when it was put to the service of the global community.”