New Delhi: Ratan Tata, the legendary industrialist and Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons, passed away at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai on Wednesday evening, aged 86. Tributes poured in from political leaders across India, acknowledging his remarkable contributions to business and society.

Last rites with state honours
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced that the last rites of Ratan Tata would be conducted with full state honours. His mortal remains will be kept at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) in Mumbai from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday for the public to pay their respects.

Condolences from national leaders
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel expressed his grief on social media, saying, "Deeply saddened by the passing away of Shri Ratan Tata Ji, a visionary leader whose business acumen and dedication transformed India's business landscape. His legacy of giving back to society will inspire generations."

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin also shared his sorrow, calling Tata "a true titan of Indian industry" and commending his "visionary leadership" that set global standards for ethical business practices. Stalin praised Tata’s dedication to philanthropy and nation-building, noting his profound impact on millions of lives.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee referred to Tata’s passing as an "irreparable loss" for both the Indian business world and society, while Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu lauded Tata’s humanitarian contributions, saying his legacy "goes beyond the industrial landscape."

Nationwide tributes
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini called Tata's demise "extremely sad and painful," highlighting his unparalleled contributions to India's development. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah described Tata as a visionary who not only created millions of jobs but also elevated India's business sector to international heights.

Sharad Pawar, Chief of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), paid tribute by recalling Tata's willingness to help the country in times of crisis. Former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik called him a "shining beacon of India's entrepreneurial spirit," while Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed his grief, honouring Tata as one of India's most renowned industrialists.

A legacy of leadership and philanthropy
Born on December 28, 1937, in Mumbai, Ratan Tata became synonymous with ethical leadership and social responsibility. He led the Tata Group as Chairman from 1991 until his retirement in 2012, after which he was appointed Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons. Under his leadership, Tata Group scaled new heights in both domestic and international markets.

Beyond his business acumen, Tata was deeply committed to philanthropy. As Chairman of the Ratan Tata Trust and Dorabji Tata Trust—two of India’s largest private-sector philanthropic organizations—he transformed lives through charitable initiatives across various sectors, including education, healthcare, and rural development.

Tata’s contributions earned him numerous accolades, including the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honour, in 2008. His life and legacy will continue to inspire future generations, leaving an indelible mark on India’s industrial and social fabric.