Mumbai: The mortal remains of legendary industrialist Ratan Tata were taken from his residence in a hearse adorned with white flowers to the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) in South Mumbai, where the public will be able to pay their final respects.

Before the hearse started from Tata's home, a tribute was paid by the Mumbai Police band, performing a ceremonial tune outside Tata's home, located a few kilometres from the NCPA.

News of Tata’s passing led to a gathering of people from various walks of life outside his residence, keen to offer their respects. Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar was among the first to visit.

Ratan Tata, credited with turning the Tata Group into a global powerhouse, passed away at the age of 86 at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, his deputy Devendra Fadnavis, Maharashtra Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar, and industrialist Mukesh Ambani rushed to the hospital upon hearing the news of his passing.

Tata’s body was brought out of Breach Candy Hospital to his Colaba residence early this morning in an ambulance escorted by police vehicles.

Chief Minister Shinde announced that Ratan Tata will be honoured with a state funeral. In recognition of his contributions, the Maharashtra government has declared a day of mourning, with the national flag at government buildings flown at half-mast.

A statement quoting CM Shinde said the national tricolour on government offices in Maharashtra will be flown at half-mast on Thursday as a sign of mourning.

The NCPA in South Mumbai will host a public viewing of Tata’s body from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., allowing people to pay their respects before the final rites.

The last rites will be conducted in the Worli area of Mumbai later.

PTI