President Droupadi Murmu condoled the death of business tycoon Ratan Tata on Thursday.
Tata, Emeritus Chairman of Tata Sons, died at the Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai on Wednesday evening.
In a tweet, President Murmu called Tata an icon who combined corporate success with nation-building. “In the sad demise of Shri Ratan, India has lost an icon who blended corporate growth with nation-building and excellence with ethics,” she wrote.
Murmu also praised Ratan for the invaluable contribution he made towards philanthropy and charity. She termed his efforts as “invaluable” and reflected upon his commitment to business as well as to social causes.
“A recipient of Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan, he took forward the great legacy and gave it a more impressive global presence,” said President Murmu. She added that Tata inspired both seasoned professionals and young students. “His contribution to philanthropy and charity is invaluable,” Murmu continued.
She also extended her condolences to the family of Tata, the Tata Group, and his admirers all over the world.
A statement of condolence also came from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said he was “extremely pained” by the news.
“Ratan Ji was a visionary business leader, a compassionate soul, and an extraordinary human being,” Modi said. “He provided stable leadership to one of India’s oldest and most prestigious business houses. At the same time, his contributions went far beyond the boardroom.”
Modi praised Ratan for his humility, goodness, and commitment to making society a better place. “He won the hearts of many because of his humility, kindness, and unwavering commitment to make our society better,” Modi added. He sent in these words of condolences: “My thoughts are with his family, friends, and admirers in this sad hour. Om Shanti.”
Ratan was born in Mumbai on December 28, 1937. He is the former chairman of Tata Sons, the holding company of the Tata Group of companies, from 1991 to his retirement in 2012. Tata also serves as chairman of the Ratan Trust and the Dorabji Trust, two of India’s largest private-sector philanthropic trusts.
He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian award in India, for his services in 2008.
With the demise of Tata, it means the loss of a figure who shaped modern Indian business while keeping the beacon of social responsibility alive.
ANI