It is the end of an era with Ratan Tata’s passing away. The former chairman of Tata Sons died of age-related illnesses at the Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai late Wednesday. He was 86.

A titan among the captains of industry, Tata steered the mighty Tata Group from the days of old economy to the era of liberalization in the early 1990s. He thus also showed the way to the other industrialists and played a crucial role in the unleashing of India’s economic potential. He received the Padma Bhushan in 2000 and then the Padma Vishubhan, the second highest civilian honour, in 2008.  

President Droupadi Murmu in a post on X past midnight noted: “In the sad demise of Shri Ratan Tata, India has lost an icon who blended corporate growth with nation building, and excellence with ethics. A recipient of Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan, he took forward the great Tata legacy and gave it a more impressive global presence. He inspired seasoned professionals and young students alike. His contribution to philanthropy and charity is invaluable. I convey my condolences to his family, the entire team of the Tata Group and his admirers across the globe.”

Prime minister Narendra Modi in his X post said, “Shri Ratan Tata Ji was a visionary business leader, a compassionate soul and an extraordinary human being. He provided stable leadership to one of India’s oldest and most prestigious business houses. At the same time, his contribution went far beyond the boardroom. He endeared himself to several people thanks to his humility, kindness and an unwavering commitment to making our society better.”

On Thursday morning, leading citizens of Mumbai gathered at Tata’s residence to pay their tributes. His mortal remains were then taken to NCP lawns, where people would be able to pay their last respects today.

Anand Mahindra of the Mahindra group wrote, “I am unable to accept the absence of Ratan Tata. India’s economy stands on the cusp of a historic leap forward. And Ratan’s life and work have had much to do with our being in this position. Hence, his mentorship and guidance at this point in time would have been invaluable. With him gone, all we can do is to commit to emulating his example. Because he was a businessman for whom financial wealth and success was most useful when it was put to the service of the global community.”

Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar was among the many outside the corporate fraternity who expressed their grief at Tata’s passing away. “In his life, and demise, Mr Ratan Tata has moved the nation. I was fortunate to spend time with him, but millions, who have never met him, feel the same grief that I feel today. Such is his impact. From his love for animals to philanthropy, he showed that true progress can only be achieved when we care for those who don’t have the means to take care of themselves. Rest in peace, Mr Tata. Your legacy will continue to live through the institutions you built and values that you embraced,” he said in a post on X.