Ratan Tata to get state funeral, day of mourning declared in Maharashtra

Veteran industrialist and Chairman Emeritus of the Tata Group, Ratan Tata passed away at a Mumbai hospital late on Wednesday night. He was 86.

Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran, in a statement, confirmed the death of Mr. Tata, describing him as his "friend, mentor and guide".

“Shri Ratan Tata Ji was a visionary business leader, a compassionate soul and an extraordinary human being. He provided stable leadership to one of India’s oldest and most prestigious business houses. At the same time, his contribution went far beyond the boardroom. He endeared himself to several people thanks to his humility, kindness and an unwavering commitment to making our society better,” PM Modi wrote in a post on X.

"It is with a profound sense of loss that we bid farewell to Mr. Ratan Naval Tata, a truly uncommon leader whose immeasurable contributions have shaped not only the Tata Group but also the very fabric of our nation," said N Chandrasekaran, Chairman, Tata Sons.

"For the Tata Group, Mr. Tata was more than a chairperson. To me, he was a mentor, guide and friend. He inspired by example. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation, the Tata Group under his stewardship expanded its global footprint while always remaining true to its moral compass," the statement from Mr Chandrasekaran mentioned.

Mr. Tata had been undergoing treatment at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital for the past few days.

According to a statement, “The mortal remains of Mr Ratan N Tata will be taken to the NCPA Lawns, Nariman Point, Mumbai at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, 10th October 2024, for members of the public to pay their last respects and homage to the departed soul.”

At 4:00 p.m., the mortal remains will embark on their final journey to the Prayer Hall at the Worli Crematorium, Dr E. Moses Road, Worli. Mr Ratan Tata will be accorded a state funeral, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced.

The Chief Minister's Office (CMO) said the tricolour on Maharashtra government offices would be flown at half-mast as a sign of mourning. There will also be no entertainment events.