Sunil Bharti Mittal, the founder of Bharti Enterprises, paid a heartfelt tribute to the late industrialist Ratan Tata, acknowledging his immense contributions to Indian industry and philanthropy. In a statement, Mittal expressed his deep sorrow over Tata’s demise, saying, “He leaves behind an astronomical imprint on the Indian industry, philanthropy, and the perennial zest to better the world we live in.”
Mittal highlighted Tata’s role as a nation-builder, whose influence continues to inspire entrepreneurs and Indian citizens alike. “A true nation builder, his legacy in the growth of the country will forever inspire entrepreneurs and all Indians alike,” Mittal added. He also extended his condolences to the Tata family on behalf of Bharti Enterprises.
Former Chief Executive of Tata Sons, Minoo Mody, also paid tribute to Ratan Tata, acknowledging his immense contributions to both business and philanthropy. Mody emphasized Tata’s compassionate nature and his dedication to effective charitable work. “Ratan Tata was always sympathetic towards people and always wanted to be helpful,” Mody said.
Similarly, Dr. Vijay Kalantri, Chairman and Managing Director of Balaji Infra Projects Limited, remembered Ratan Tata as a “legend, visionary, and doyen of Indian industry.” He fondly recalled his interactions with Tata since the 1980s, describing him as a great philanthropist with a human touch. Kalantri also appealed to the government to confer the Bharat Ratna on Ratan Tata, India’s highest civilian honor, as a mark of respect for his contributions.
Dr. Kalantri urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Government of India to recognize Tata with the Bharat Ratna, saying, “Ratan Tata should be conferred with Bharat Ratna. This is the highest civilian award, and I think we should honor him with it. He deserves it, and I believe the entire nation will be proud if this honor is bestowed upon him.”
As tributes poured in, several prominent figures, including Isha Ambani, Executive Director of Reliance Retail Ventures Limited, and Anand Piramal, Executive Director of Piramal Group, visited the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) in Mumbai to pay their last respects to Ratan Tata. The public was also allowed to pay homage from 10 AM to 4 PM on the day of his funeral.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced that Ratan Tata’s last rites would be performed with full state honors, a fitting tribute to a man who left an indelible mark on Indian industry and society.
A Life of Service and Leadership
Born on December 28, 1937, in Mumbai, Ratan Tata went on to lead the Tata Group, one of India’s largest and most respected conglomerates. He served as Chairman of Tata Sons from 1991 until his retirement in 2012 and was later named Chairman Emeritus. He also chaired the Ratan Tata Trust and the Dorabji Tata Trust, two of India’s largest philanthropic organizations. In recognition of his contributions, Tata was honored with the Padma Vibhushan, the country’s second-highest civilian award, in 2008.
