Ratan Tata Passes Away At 86: Iconic Industrialist To Be Cremated With Full State Honours, Day Of Mourning Declared In Maharashtra

Industrialist Ratan Tata, who passed away at 86 in a Mumbai hospital on Wednesday (9 October), will be cremated with full state honours, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced.

The state government has also declared a day of mourning on Thursday to honour the late industrialist.

Chief Minister Shinde declared that the national flag would be flown at half-mast in all government offices across Maharashtra to show respect.

Additionally, all entertainment events scheduled for Thursday have been called off in honour of Tata.

Ratan Tata’s body will be placed at the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) in Nariman Point, Mumbai, from 10 am to 4 pm today, allowing people to pay their final respects.

The cremation is scheduled for later today in Worli.

Describing Tata as the "ideal amalgamation of ethics and entrepreneurship", Chief Minister Shinde remarked that he was a role model for future generations of entrepreneurs and a symbol of India's industrial growth.

"Everyone will always remember the determination shown by him after the 2008 Mumbai attack. His firm decisions, courageous attitude and social commitment will always be remembered. The last rites of late Ratanji Tata will be performed with full state honours," Shinde added.

Taking charge of the Tata Group in 1991, Ratan Tata played a pivotal role in its acquisition of global companies like Corus and Jaguar Land Rover.

Under his leadership, the group expanded its reach in sectors ranging from steel and automobiles to IT.

Despite retiring in 2012, he continued to provide guidance to the group and remained active in philanthropy. He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan for his contributions.

Tata’s passing has led to a nationwide outpouring of grief and tributes.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed him as a visionary leader with a compassionate soul.

Prominent business figures such as Gautam Adani, Anand Mahindra, and Sundar Pichai also expressed their condolences.

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