Ratan Tata, the Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons, passed away at the age of 86 on Wednesday, October 9, at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai. He was in critical condition in the ICU shortly after announcing he was undergoing routine medical evaluations related to his age.
Tata was celebrated for his significant contributions to India’s development and prosperity, and his death is mourned not only in India but also globally, including among Indian Americans in the United States. Known for his humility, love for animals, and generosity, Tata’s philanthropic efforts advanced education and healthcare, benefiting millions in India and beyond.
A Cornell University graduate with a degree in architecture, Tata’s visionary leadership and commitment to philanthropy left a lasting global impact, particularly in education and research, as noted by J. Meejin Yoon, Dean of Cornell’s College of Architecture, Art, and Planning. He served as a Cornell trustee for three terms from 2006 to 2022 and was named Cornell’s Entrepreneur of the Year in 2013. His life and legacy have drawn widespread attention from US media following his passing.
Major US outlets reported on Tata’s achievements and influence. The New York Times headline read, “Ratan Tata, Whose Indian Business Empire Went Global, Dies at 86,” describing him as “one of India’s most powerful and admired magnates” who transformed the Tata Group into a multinational corporation with globally recognized brands.
CNN reported, “Ratan Tata, Indian tycoon who took his empire global, dead at 86,” highlighting Tata’s global prominence through high-profile deals, including Tata Motors’ acquisition of Jaguar and Land Rover from Ford. CNN also mentioned his efforts to improve the welfare of stray animals in India.
CNBC’s coverage, titled “Ratan Tata, the former chairman of Indian conglomerate Tata Sons, dies at age 86,” emphasized his pioneering role in commercial aviation with the establishment of an airline that later became Air India and noted his receipt of the Padma Bhushan in 2000 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2008, two of India’s highest civilian awards.
CBS News also honored Tata with the headline, “Ratan Tata, Indian magnate who built global conglomerate Tata Group, is dead at 86,” while Fox 2’s article echoed this focus, detailing Tata’s achievements and the tributes pouring in following his death.
