Ratan Tata’s Funeral: A Nation Mourns the Loss of an Icon Farewell to a Legend | Ratan Tata’s Final Journey Brings Together Tributes from Across the Globe
In an emotional Ratan Tata’s farewell, India bids adieu to one of its most beloved industrialists, Ratan Tata, who was cremated with full state honours on Thursday evening. The nation pays its final respects to Ratan Tata, a visionary leader and philanthropist, at a solemn funeral attended by political figures, business leaders, and millions whose lives he touched.
Ratan Tata’s Funeral: Honoring a Life of Service
The death of Ratan Tata, India’s legendary industrialist and philanthropist, marks the end of an era. His funeral, held with full state honors, saw heartfelt tributes from global leaders and close associates. Among them, his long-time aide Shantanu Naidu’s emotional farewell stood out. The loss of Tata has left a void not just in the business world but in the hearts of millions who admired his compassion and integrity.
A Visionary Leader and a Symbol of Humility
Ratan Tata, the celebrated industrialist and philanthropist, was cremated at a central Mumbai crematorium with full state honours on Thursday. His passing marks the end of an era, leaving a deep void in India’s industrial and philanthropic landscape. At the age of 86, Ratan Tata took his last breath at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital on Wednesday night. His departure has left the entire nation mourning, with tributes pouring in from leaders across the political spectrum and business world.
Born on December 28, 1937, in Mumbai, Ratan Tata transformed the Tata Group into a global conglomerate, leading it from 1991 until his retirement in 2012. Despite stepping down from active management, he remained a guiding force, continuing to embody the group’s values and vision.
Ratan Tata Death News: A Nation in Mourning
In the wake of his demise, the Maharashtra government declared a one-day state mourning, ordering all government buildings to fly the national flag at half-mast. All state celebrations and entertainment events were canceled in honor of Tata’s legacy. A statement from the Chief Minister’s Office confirmed that his funeral would be conducted with full state honours.
A Heartfelt Goodbye: Tributes from Leaders and Loved Ones
The Ratan Tata’s Funeral procession was attended by key political and business figures, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Minister Piyush Goyal, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Congress leader Sushilkumar Shinde. Family members, including Ratan Tata’s half-brother Noel Tata, and top executives from Tata Group, such as chairman N Chandrasekaran, were present at the Worli crematorium to bid a final goodbye.
As per his wishes, Tata’s body was cremated at the electric crematorium in Worli. The last rites followed Parsi traditions, and it was confirmed that rituals would continue for three more days at Tata’s bungalow in Colaba, South Mumbai.
Shantanu Naidu: An Emotional Tribute to a Mentor
Shantanu Naidu, a long-time aide and close confidante of Ratan Tata, shared a deeply personal and emotional tribute, calling Tata his “lighthouse.” In a poignant social media post, Naidu wrote, “The hole that this friendship has now left with me, I will spend the rest of my life trying to fill.” Earlier that day, Naidu was seen leading the truck carrying Tata’s mortal remains, riding a Yezdi motorcycle from Tata’s residence. Their bond, forged over a shared love for dogs, had turned into an unbreakable friendship, with Naidu describing Tata as his mentor and guide.
“Grief is the price we pay for love. Goodbye, my dear lighthouse,” Naidu wrote, sharing a cherished photo of the two of them aboard a chartered aircraft.
A Legacy of Simplicity and Patriotism
Former President Ram Nath Kovind fondly remembered Tata as a symbol of simplicity and humility, saying, “Whenever I invited him to banquets at Rashtrapati Bhavan, despite being such a renowned industrialist, his humility stood out. He never appeared to be one of the big industrialists of our country; instead, he seemed like a patriot and a simple man who always followed protocol.” Kovind praised Tata for always putting national interest before profit, adding, “He always emphasized that the national interest should be paramount in establishing industries.”
Leaders at Ratan Tata’s Funeral: A Testament to His Impact
Leaders across the political spectrum expressed their grief over Ratan Tata’s Funeral. Union Minister Amit Shah described the day as one of the “most tragic” for the country, calling Tata a “true nationalist and son of the soil.”
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai echoed the sentiment, calling Tata’s demise an “irreparable loss for the country.” Sai lauded Tata’s contributions to industry, healthcare, and education, noting that his work left an indelible mark on the nation.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also paid tribute, describing Tata as a “born industrialist and philanthropist” who was deeply ethical in his business dealings. “He always put the nation first,” Kharge said, recalling his meetings with Tata during his tenure as Industry Minister.
A Titan Honoured Globally
The impact of Ratan Tata’s work stretched far beyond India. UK Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds referred to Tata as a “titan” of the business world. Reynolds recognized Tata’s efforts in establishing the Tata Group as one of the largest employers in the UK and called his passing a loss for both nations. “He was truly a titan of the business world,” Reynolds said, sending condolences to Tata’s family and the Tata Group.
A Revered Figure in the Corporate World
Ratan Tata’s passing also struck a chord within the corporate world. Bharti Enterprises vice-chairman Rakesh Bharti Mittal described him as a “remarkable corporate citizen,” praising his commitment to noble causes and philanthropy. “Ratan Tata was not only a business legend but also a man deeply committed to improving the world through his philanthropic efforts,” Mittal said.
Former cricketer Kapil Dev also expressed his sorrow, calling Tata “irreplaceable.” “Everyone has to leave this world, but people are remembered for their work. We will never find a better person than him,” Dev said.
A Farewell from Workers Who Viewed Him as a God
Workers from Tata Steel Plant in Jamshedpur mourned his passing with deep sadness. One worker said, “Ratan Tata was like a god to us. He always advocated for workers’ rights, and today feels like losing a family member.”
Ratan Tata Memorial: A Lasting Legacy
Ratan Tata’s legacy is one of integrity, vision, and compassion. His leadership and philanthropic endeavors made him not just a titan of industry but a beloved figure across the globe. His humility and dedication to the nation will remain an enduring inspiration for generations to come.
As the nation mourns the loss of this extraordinary individual, his work, values, and generosity will continue to guide India’s progress in the years ahead.
Source: Hindustan Times
