The final rites of Ratan Naval Tata, the beloved industrialist known for his compassionate heart, were conducted with full state honours at a Mumbai crematorium on Thursday afternoon.
The Mumbai police contingent paid tribute with a gun salute to the Tata Group patriarch at the Worli crematorium. Thousands from various fields, including politicians and corporate leaders, gathered to honour Ratan Tata, whose legacy extended far beyond being a top industry leader.
#WATCH | Last rites of veteran industrialist Ratan Tata, being performed with state honour at Worli crematorium in Mumbai pic.twitter.com/08G7gnahyS
— ANI (@ANI) October 10, 2024
Earlier in the day, Tata’s body was transported from his Colaba residence in a hearse adorned with white flowers and wrapped in the national flag. It was first taken to the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) in Nariman Point before heading to the Worli crematorium, 12 km away.
Before the hearse left his home, the Mumbai Police band played a tribute tune in his honour. At the NCPA, Tata’s body was kept in a casket, draped in the national tricolour, for mourners to pay their respects.
Thousands of people lined the streets, patiently waiting to bid their final farewell and catch one last glimpse of the man who earned immense respect for various reasons. Many employees and top executives of the Tata Group were also present to honour him.
Later in the day, his body was taken to the Prayer Hall at the Worli crematorium for the final rituals.
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde had announced that Ratan Tata would receive a state funeral. The Maharashtra government declared a day of mourning, with the national flag flying at half-mast across government offices.
Ratan Tata, credited with transforming the Tata Group into a global conglomerate, passed away at the age of 86 at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai on Wednesday night. CM Shinde, Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar, and industrialist Mukesh Ambani were among those who visited the hospital after hearing the news of his passing.