Ratan Tata, the esteemed Indian tycoon and former chairman of the Tata Group, has passed away at the age of 86. The Tata Group, which he led for over two decades, is one of India’s largest conglomerates, boasting annual revenues exceeding $100 billion (£76.5 billion).

In a heartfelt statement, Natarajan Chandrasekaran, the current chairman of Tata Sons, described Tata as a “truly uncommon leader.” He extended condolences on behalf of the entire Tata family, emphasizing that Tata’s legacy will continue to inspire the organization as they uphold the principles he championed throughout his life.

Under Ratan Tata’s leadership, the Tata Group made several significant acquisitions, including the Anglo-Dutch steelmaker Corus, the iconic British car brands Jaguar and Land Rover, and Tetley, the world’s second-largest tea company. UK Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds paid tribute to Tata, calling him a “titan of the business world” who played a pivotal role in shaping British industry.

In a 2011 profile by The Economist, Tata was described as a “titan” for his transformative efforts in establishing the Tata Group as a global powerhouse. Although he owned less than 1% of the group that carries his family name, he was recognized as one of India’s most influential businessmen.

Tata retired as chairman in 2012 but remained involved as chairman emeritus of Tata Sons. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored Tata as a “visionary business leader, a compassionate soul, and an extraordinary human being.” Modi expressed his profound sadness over Tata’s passing, recalling numerous interactions with him.

Born into a traditional Parsi family in 1937, Ratan Tata studied architecture and structural engineering at Cornell University in the United States. He joined Tata Industries in 1962 and quickly made his mark in various segments of the Tata Group, including Tata Steel and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS).

In 1991, Ratan Tata succeeded JRD Tata, who had led the group for more than fifty years. Tata later reflected on JRD Tata’s mentorship, describing him as “a father and a brother.” His contributions to Indian industry were recognized in 2008 when he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, the country’s second-highest civilian honor.

Peter Casey, author of The Story of Tata, characterized Tata as a “modest, reserved, and even shy man” with a “stately calm” and “fierce discipline.” Though he faced controversy in 2016 over the ousting of his successor Cyrus Mistry, which led to a management feud, his legacy remains largely untarnished.

Tata also had a lighter side, known for his love of fast cars and planes. He was an enthusiastic scuba diver until age-related challenges curtailed that hobby. A devoted dog lover, Tata often spoke about the joy and sorrow his pets brought into his life. In a 2021 interview, he remarked on the profound sadness he felt with each pet’s passing and his determination to welcome new dogs into his home.

His simplicity was also celebrated; a viral video in 2022 featured him traveling in a Nano car, a symbol of one of Tata’s ambitious yet ultimately failed projects.

Ratan Tata leaves behind a rich legacy of business excellence and humanitarian values, influencing countless lives and shaping the future of Indian industry.