Mortal Remains Arrive at NCPA
The country lamented the passing of Ratan Tata, the 86-year-old chairman emeritus of the Tata Group and a renowned industrialist, on Thursday, October 10, 2024. His mortal remains were transported from his home in a hearse adorned with white flowers to the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) in South Mumbai. The venue was chosen to allow the public to pay their last respects to a man whose contributions have profoundly shaped India’s corporate landscape.
Tributes and Condolences Pour In
Ratan Tata’s death on the evening of October 9, 2024, came as a shock to many. He had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital two days earlier due to age-related complications and issues related to blood pressure. Following his passing, an outpouring of grief and tributes flooded in from across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, describing Tata as a “visionary business leader, compassionate soul, and extraordinary human being.”
The Indian National Congress also issued a statement mourning the loss of a “titan of Indian industry” and recognized Tata’s philanthropic efforts that significantly impacted the nation. The collective sorrow from various sectors highlighted Tata’s status as not just a businessman but also a beloved figure in Indian society.
— Tata Group (@TataCompanies) October 9, 2024
Ratan Tata’s Stance on Corruption
Ratan Tata was known for his integrity and ethical approach to business, which he articulated during a memorable interview with NDTV in 2010. In a candid exchange with a fellow billionaire who suggested bribing a minister for a lucrative deal, Tata stood firm in his values. When asked how he managed to avoid corruption, Tata simply replied, “It has to be self-regulating. You will never understand.” This statement encapsulates his commitment to ethical business practices and his desire to maintain a clear conscience.
Reflecting on his principles, Tata stated, “I want to go to bed at night feeling that I have not done it (corruption).” His philosophy resonated with many in the business community and beyond, marking him as a leader who prioritized ethics over profits.
A National Mourning
Ratan Tata will be cremated today with full state honors. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has declared a day of mourning in recognition of Tata’s legacy, with the national flag being flown at half-mast across government buildings in the state. In a sign of respect, numerous events scheduled for today have been cancelled, further underscoring the magnitude of the loss felt across the nation.
From 10 AM to 4 PM, the NCPA will be accessible for public viewing, giving people a chance to pay their respects to a man whose life and contributions have made a lasting impression on Indian society.
Shantanu Naidu: A Personal Farewell
One of the most heartfelt tributes came from Shantanu Naidu, Ratan Tata’s trusted assistant and the youngest general manager at Tata Trust. In a touching LinkedIn post, Naidu discussed their deep friendship and said, “I will spend the rest of my life trying to fill the hole that this friendship has now left with me.” Grief is the price you pay for love. Goodbye, my dear lighthouse.” His words capture not only the personal loss felt by Naidu but also the deep bond that existed between the two.
Naidu shared a throwback photo with Tata, a reminder of the mentorship and friendship that had developed between them. As a rising star in the corporate world, Naidu’s relationship with Tata was unique, as Tata, who never married or had children, embraced Naidu as a cherished member of his inner circle.
Shantanu Naidu: From Innovation to Friendship
Born and raised in Pune, Shantanu Naidu’s journey to becoming Ratan Tata’s assistant is a story of innovation and initiative. He earned his engineering degree from Savitribai Phule Pune University and later pursued an MBA from Cornell Johnson Graduate School of Management. Naidu began his career at Tata Elxsi, where he focused on designing solutions to address issues such as dog fatalities caused by speeding vehicles.
Driven by his passion for animal welfare, Naidu proposed a project involving “collars for dogs” that would enhance their visibility on roads at night. In a bold move, he wrote to Tata to pitch his idea. To Naidu’s surprise, Tata not only responded but also invited him to discuss his proposal further. This meeting laid the foundation for a remarkable friendship and professional relationship that would last until Tata’s passing.
A Lasting Legacy
The influence of Ratan Tata on Indian industry and society is immense. He was a major contributor to the Tata Group’s rise to prominence on the world stage while upholding a strong dedication to moral behavior and charitable giving. Future generations of business executives and entrepreneurs will continue to draw inspiration from his legacy.
As India bids farewell to this towering figure, it is clear that Ratan Tata’s contributions to industry and society will be remembered for years to come. His principles, dedication to integrity, and commitment to social causes serve as a guiding light for many, ensuring that his spirit and values live on.
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