Industrialist Ratan Naval Tata, an embodiment of passion and compassion, is no more

While as head of Tata Group, he was hailed for global acquisitions like Tetley and Jaguar Land Rover, but he also failed miserably when it came to the Nano, a car for the common man. Tata’s statement on the Nano says it all, “What really motivated me, and sparked a desire to produce such a vehicle, was constantly seeing Indian families on scooters, maybe the child sandwiched between the mother and father, riding to wherever they were going, often on slippery roads. One of the benefits of being in the School of Architecture, it had taught me to doodle when I was free. At first we were trying to figure out how to make two wheelers safer, the doodles became four wheels, no windows, no doors, just a basic dune buggy. But I finally decided it should be a car. The Nano, was always meant for all our people.”

After his retirement, he got active through social media like X (earlier known as Twitter) and Instagram.  He had 13.1 million followers on X. Barely three days back he had posted a signed note saying, “I am aware of the recent rumours regarding my health and want to assure everyone that these claims are unfounded. I am currently undergoing medical check ups due to my age and related medical conditions, There is no cause for concern. I remain in good spirits and request that the public and media respect refrain from spreading misinformation”.

 Alas, despite his optimism and his best efforts to squash rumours about his health, he died while being treated. On Instagram, Ratan Tata had 10.6 million followers. With Ratan Tata’s death, the era of giants in the field of business and enterprise in India is over. 

Statement from Shailesh Chandra, President, SIAM

“Indian Automobile Industry is deeply saddened with the passing away of Shri Ratan Tata, a towering figure, who has played a stellar role in bringing the Indian Auto industry to the global stage. A great humanist, visionary and leader, he championed innovations that are helping build a better tomorrow. RIP Sir

ACMA statement

“It is with profound sorrow that we, at the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA), mourn the passing of one of India’s most visionary and iconic business leaders, Mr. Ratan Tata. His immense contributions to the automotive industry, among many other sectors, have left an indelible mark on the growth and global stature of Indian industry.

Mr. Tata was not just a business leader; he was a beacon of integrity, innovation, and compassion. Under his able leadership, Tata Motors revolutionized the Indian automotive landscape, putting India on the world map of automotive excellence. His vision for sustainable and inclusive growth continues to inspire the industry.

The Indian automotive sector, particularly the auto component industry, has greatly benefitted from Mr. Tata’s commitment to quality, innovation, and self-reliance. He was a stalwart who believed in the potential of India’s manufacturing sector and encouraged the localization of automotive supply chains, which has become a cornerstone of our industry today. His advocacy for electric mobility and environmental sustainability resonates deeply with the industry’s current transformation.

On behalf of ACMA and the entire automotive fraternity, we extend our deepest condolences to the Tata family, and everyone touched by his leadership. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders in India and beyond.

Mr. Ratan Tata will forever be remembered as a pioneer, a visionary, and an unparalleled contributor to the progress of the Indian automotive sector,” said, Shradha Suri Marwah, President ACMA & CMD Subros.

FADA statement

It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that we, at the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), mourn the passing of Mr. Ratan Tata. A stalwart of the Indian automotive industry, a visionary leader and a compassionate human being, Mr. Tata’s presence will be profoundly missed, but his legacy will forever remain a guiding light for all of us, said a statement from FADA..

Mr. Tata was not just a leader; he was a dreamer with a heart that beat for India. He showed us how business can be a force for good—how empathy and ethics can drive growth and how one person’s kindness can touch countless lives. His impact on the Indian auto industry and the lives of so many of us goes beyond words.

When FADA presented him with the Lifetime Contribution Award in 2014, it was not just an acknowledgment of his achievements but a celebration of a life dedicated to elevating India on the global stage. He transformed the Indian automotive landscape, bringing dreams on wheels to millions of families. He embodied the spirit of resilience and humility, which made him not only a great industrialist but also a beloved figure in every Indian home.

Today, we have lost a legend, a mentor, and a guiding star. As we come to terms with this immense loss, we take solace in knowing that his values, his vision and his generosity will continue to inspire and lead us. The FADA family, along with the entire automotive fraternity, extends our deepest condolences to the Tata family and the Tata Group.

Mr. Tata, you may have left this world, but your spirit will continue to light the way for generations to come. May you rest in eternal peace, the FADA statement concluded.

Statement from Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India

“We are deeply distressed by the demise of Padma Vibhushan Shri Ratan Naval Tata, a visionary and humanitarian leader whose legacy transcends business, embracing the spirit of serving the humankind. Mr. Ratan Tata has not only been an icon for the nation, but an inspiration for countless lives. His life has been a journey of pioneering contributions that has shaped the business landscape in the country, bringing Indian enterprises to the global stage. Mr Tata’s passion for innovation and relentless pursuit of excellence, combined with an extraordinary showcase of courage and compassion, will continue to fuel the aspirations of the nation. His management philosophy of running the Tata Group with the motto "Good thoughts, good words, good deeds" emphasized the importance of creating value not just for shareholders, but for all the sections of the society.

As we remember him, his profound influence on industry and humanity will remain a guiding force for generations to come. His absence leaves an irreplaceable void, but his spirit will forever guide us,”  stated Tsutsumu Otani, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India.