The world is mourning the death of Ratan Tata, one of India’s most iconic industrialists, who died on Wednesday at the age of 86. Known for his transformational leadership at the Tata Group, Ratan Tata was not only a business giant, but he was also a philanthropist who contributed significantly to India’s development. As news of his demise spread, global tech leaders like Sundar Pichai and Bill Gates paid emotional tributes, honoring his visionary leadership and legacy.

Sundar Pichai remembers Ratan Tata’s inspiration

Google CEO Sundar Pichai took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his deepest condolences and share memories of his last meeting with the Tata Group chairman emeritus. Pichai remembers discussing Google’s autonomous driving technology, Waymo, with Tata, which highlighted how the visionary’s ideas on innovation and progress were always ahead of the curve.

“In my last meeting with Ratan Tata at Google, we talked about Waymo’s progress and his perspective was inspiring to hear,” Pichai wrote. He praised Tata for its important role in shaping modern business leadership in India, and said that his deep commitment to making India better was always evident.

“He leaves an extraordinary business and philanthropic legacy and has been instrumental in mentoring and developing modern business leadership in India. He was deeply concerned about making India better. Deepest condolences to his loved ones and may Shri Ratan Tata ji rest in peace,” Pichai said, reflecting Tata’s deep impact on both the business world and society.

Bill Gates praised Ratan Tata’s global contribution

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates also paid tribute to Tata, acknowledging his lasting impact not only in India but across the world. Gates shared his thoughts on LinkedIn and recalled how impressed he was by Tata’s dedication to improving lives through various initiatives.

“Ratan Tata was a visionary leader whose dedication to improving lives left an indelible mark on India and the world. Gates wrote, I had the privilege of meeting him on several occasions and was always impressed by his strong sense of purpose and service to humanity.

He further mentioned how he and Tata collaborated on several projects aimed at improving health and prosperity. Gates expressed confidence that Tata’s legacy and leadership will continue to inspire future generations.

Ratan Tata’s last days and state honors

Ratan Tata was seriously ill and was undergoing treatment at a hospital in Mumbai for age-related health problems. His demise marks the end of an era, as Tata is remembered for leading the Tata Group to global prominence and making significant contributions to India’s development.

The Maharashtra government has announced that Tata’s last rites will be performed with full state honours. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said there will be state mourning on Thursday, October 10 and the national flag will fly at half mast in government offices. The public can pay their respects at the NCPA lawns in Nariman Point, Mumbai, where Tata’s body has been kept before the cremation.