Ratan Tata Death Anniversary 2025: India Honours The Industrial Icon

More than an industrialist, Ratan Tata was also an ethical statesman, visionary leader, and philanthropist who had empathy for both humans and animals. 

He was among India’s prominent business leaders of international fame and was highly educated and modest. 

Passed away on October 9, 2024, his legacy and wisdom will continue to inspire the young generations for decades. 

Hence, today, on his death anniversary, we pay a tribute to this iconic entrepreneur by revisiting his life and his words of wisdom.

Ratan Tata: Glimpse From Childhood To Legacy

Ratan Tata was born in Mumbai (then Bombay) on 28th December 1937 during the British era in a Parsi Zoroastrian family. 

He was the eldest son of Naval Tata, who was the adopted son of Ratan Tata (son of Tata Group founder, Jamshedji Tata).

After finishing his schooling at Mumbai's Cathedral and John Connon School, he joined Cornell University in 1955 and completed his graduation in architecture and structural engineering.

In 1962, his journey began with the Tata Group. In 1970, he rose to a managerial position and got initial success in restructuring the subsidiary NELCO (National Radio & Electronics). 

He became the successor to J.R.D. Tata, who stepped down from his position as chairman of Tata Sons in 1991.

His leadership led to many bold acquisitions. It included the takeover of Anglo-Dutch steelmaker Corus and the United Kingdom automobile brands, Jaguar and Land Rover.

In 2000, Tata acquired Tetley and became the second-largest tea company in the world. It turned out to be the largest brand takeover of international fame by an Indian firm.

Motivated by his love for animals, Ratan Tata also initiated setting up a Small Animal Hospital, where small animals are treated with love and compassion. It was an initiative by Tata Trusts.

Honorary Rewards

Ratan Tata was honoured with Padma Bhushan in 2000 and Padma Vibhushan in 2008 for his outstanding work in driving India's economic growth. 

His other accolades include the Maharashtra Bhushan in 2006 for his efforts in public administration and Assam Baibhav in 2021 for his contributions to cancer care in Assam.

Motivational Quotes of Ratan Tata

On the occasion of Ratan Tata’s death anniversary 2025, we bring you some extracts of his wisdom through motivational quotes.

‘’None can destroy the iron, but its own rust can. Likewise, none can destroy a person, but their own mindset can.’’

''Ups and downs in life are very important to keep us going because a straight line, even in an ECG, means we are not alive.’’

‘’Be persistent and resilient in the face of challenges, for they are the building blocks of success.’’