Mumbai: Thousands, including top political leaders, industry captains, celebrities, and commoners, gathered to bid a tearful farewell to legendary business giant Ratan Naval Tata, who passed away at the age of 86 on Thursday. Tata had been battling age-related health issues at Breach Candy Hospital since Monday and died shortly before midnight on Wednesday, leaving the corporate world in mourning.
His mortal remains were taken to the NCPA Lawns for public viewing before the funeral at the Worli Crematorium later in the evening. Among those paying their respects were Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and leaders from various political parties.
Prominent industrialists, including Mukesh Ambani and members of influential business families like the Piramals, Godrejs, and Birlas, also attended to honor Tata’s legacy. Other notable figures included Nationalist Congress Party President Sharad Pawar, Shiv Sena (UBT) President Uddhav Thackeray, and several former Chief Ministers of Maharashtra.
After the public viewing, Tata’s glass-topped coffin, draped in the Tricolor, was transported to the crematorium amid a procession of police and media. Mumbaikars lined the streets, some holding placards and posters, bidding farewell with a symbolic “Goodbye, Tata.”
The cremation ceremony at Worli was attended by around 200 close family members and dignitaries. A police band played the Last Post, and Tata was accorded a gun salute. A folded Tricolor was presented to a family member.
Tributes poured in from all corners, with many sharing heartfelt stories about Tata’s kindness and humility. NRI diamantaire Ketan R. Kakkad recalled hosting Tata during a business delegation, while social worker Khushroo Poacha recounted how Tata personally assisted him with his helpline initiative.
Social media was flooded with tributes reflecting Tata’s impact on countless lives through his philanthropic efforts, including a recently inaugurated animal care hospital in Mahalaxmi.
Ratan Tata’s legacy as a compassionate leader and influential business figure will continue to resonate with many for years to come.
