Ratan Naval Tata, the esteemed chairman emeritus of the Tata Group and a towering figure in Indian industry, passed away on Wednesday night at the age of 86. He had been receiving treatment for a prolonged illness at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai.

Tata's passing sparked a wave of tributes from business leaders across India, reflecting on his remarkable contributions to the nation’s corporate landscape.

Mukesh Ambani's Tribute

Mukesh Ambani, chairman of Reliance Industries, expressed deep sorrow, calling it "a very sad day for India and India Inc." Ambani emphasized that Tata’s death was not just a loss for the Tata Group but for the entire country. Reflecting on their close relationship, Ambani said, "The passing of Ratan Tata has filled me with immense grief as I lost a dear friend. Every interaction with him left me inspired, enhancing my respect for his noble character and the human values he embodied." Ambani also praised Tata for turning the Tata Group into a global powerhouse, adding, “Mr. Tata took India to the world and brought the best of the world to Bharat.” He extended his condolences to the Tata family, concluding, "Ratan, you will always remain in my heart. Om Shanti."

Anand Mahindra's Heartfelt Message

Anand Mahindra, chairman of the Mahindra Group, expressed disbelief at Tata's passing on social media. He acknowledged the crucial role Tata's work played in shaping India's current economic trajectory, stating, "I am unable to accept the absence of Ratan Tata. India's economy is on the verge of a historic leap, and his contributions were key to getting us here. His guidance would have been invaluable at this moment." Mahindra urged others to honor Tata’s legacy by following his example of using business success to benefit the global community. "He was a businessman who believed wealth was most meaningful when it served humanity," Mahindra noted.

Gautam Adani's Tribute

Gautam Adani, chairman of the Adani Group, honored Tata as a visionary leader who redefined modern India. “India has lost a giant," Adani said. "Ratan Tata wasn’t just a business leader—he embodied the spirit of India, with his integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the greater good. Legends like him never fade away. Om Shanti."

Harsh Goenka and Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw Remember Tata

Harsh Goenka, chairman of RPG Enterprises, mourned Tata's passing by calling him "a beacon of integrity and ethical leadership." He wrote, “The Titan passes away. Ratan Tata imprinted an indelible mark on the world of business and beyond.” Biocon's Executive Chairperson, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, also shared her grief, calling Tata the "tallest business icon" she had known. "This is heartbreaking news. He was a great man with a great mind. I was blessed to have known him. Om Shanthi," she posted along with a photo of them together.

N Chandrasekaran's Reflection

N. Chandrasekaran, chairman of Tata Sons, offered heartfelt condolences, describing Tata as a mentor, guide, and friend. “For the Tata Group, Mr. Tata was more than just a chairman. He inspired by example. Under his leadership, the Tata Group expanded globally while remaining true to its core values of integrity, excellence, and innovation,” he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Tribute

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also honored Tata’s memory, praising him as "a visionary business leader, a compassionate soul, and an extraordinary human being." Modi acknowledged Tata's stable leadership and his contributions beyond the corporate world, adding, "He endeared himself to many through his humility and commitment to improving society."

Tata’s passing leaves behind an enduring legacy of leadership, philanthropy, and service to India and the world.