The passing of Ratan Tata, one of India’s most iconic industrialists and philanthropists, marks the end of an era. On the night of October 9, 2024, at 11:30 PM, Ratan Tata breathed his last at Breach Candy Hospital in South Mumbai.
His passing has left an indelible void in the hearts of millions of Indians who revered him not just for his business acumen, but also for his humility, compassion, and commitment to the welfare of society.
Tata’s final rites took place in Mumbai with a unique gathering of spiritual leaders from different faiths, symbolizing the profound respect he commanded across India’s diverse religious spectrum.
Read : Great Industrialist Ratan Tata Passed Away at 86
The ceremony, held at the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA), allowed people from all walks of life to pay their last respects to a man whose life’s work transcended corporate success, reflecting his deep-seated values of unity, tolerance, and inclusivity.
A Multifaith Tribute at NCPA
Ratan Tata’s body was draped in the Indian national flag and placed on the lawns of the NCPA, Nariman Point, in South Mumbai. As people gathered to bid farewell, the sight of priests from various religions coming together to offer prayers was a poignant moment that captured the essence of Tata’s legacy.
Priests from Parsi, Muslim, Christian, Sikh, and Hindu faiths stood shoulder to shoulder, offering their prayers as members of the public lined up to pay their respects.
This multifaith gathering reflected Ratan Tata’s philosophy of inclusion and respect for all religions, a core belief that shaped his leadership style and philanthropy. Videos of the priests standing united went viral, evoking an outpouring of emotions from across the country.
In a time when divisions based on religion often dominate public discourse, this moment of unity stood as a testament to Tata’s lifelong belief in humanity’s ability to rise above differences and work toward the common good.
एक इंसान जिसे सभी धर्मो ने अपनाया यही इंसानियत है!#रतन_टाटा के श्रद्धांजलि सभा में सभी धर्मों के गुरु मौजूद रहे!
— Jay Kumar Chouhan (@JayKumarChouha7) October 10, 2024
हिंदू पंडित, मुस्लिम इमाम, सिख गुरू, बौद्ध भंते,और ईसाई पादरी ने रतन टाटा को अंतिम विदाई दी!#RatanTataSir #RatanTataPassedAway pic.twitter.com/SSgDs5UhlJ
The public response to the video reflected the depth of Tata’s impact on people’s lives. “Being a good person is the biggest religion,” one individual commented, encapsulating the way in which Ratan Tata transcended religious boundaries to become a figure revered by people of all faiths. Another expressed, “He made everyone come together as one. May his soul rest in peace.”
Ratan Tata’s Final Journey
Following the public homage at NCPA, Ratan Tata’s mortal remains were taken to the Prayer Hall of the Worli Crematorium, where the final rites were performed according to Parsi customs. The Parsi community, known for its unique funeral practices, typically does not follow the cremation or burial methods observed in other religions.
Traditionally, Parsis place their deceased atop a Tower of Silence, or “Dakhma,” where the bodies are exposed to the elements and consumed by vultures. This practice reflects the Parsi belief in preserving the purity of nature, as they avoid contaminating the elements of fire, earth, or water.
However, in modern times, with the dwindling population of vultures and other logistical challenges, electric cremation has become more common among Parsis, especially in urban areas like Mumbai.
For Ratan Tata, a similar arrangement was made at the crematorium. The Prayer Hall, which can accommodate around 200 people, hosted his final prayers, after which his body was moved to the electric incinerators for the cremation.
Despite the somber atmosphere, the gathering of priests from multiple faiths gave the occasion an aura of reverence and respect that transcended traditional religious practices. Ratan Tata’s life had been a beacon of humanitarian values, and his final rites were a reflection of the inclusive world he sought to foster throughout his career.
Ratan Tata: A Legacy of Unity and Service
Ratan Tata’s death has sparked a wave of reflection on his towering legacy. Born into a family synonymous with business success and philanthropy, Tata dedicated his life to transforming the Tata Group into one of the world’s most respected and ethical conglomerates.
Yet, his contributions went far beyond the world of business. Whether through his philanthropic ventures, such as the Tata Trusts, or his support for education, healthcare, and rural development, Tata always placed humanity at the center of his endeavors.
The multifaith prayer service in his honor was a fitting tribute to his belief that the strength of a nation lies in its diversity. Throughout his life, Tata championed social causes that sought to uplift the marginalized and build bridges across cultural and religious divides.
His deep commitment to India’s unity and secular fabric was evident not only in his work but also in his interactions with people from all walks of life.
The reactions to the prayer meeting underscore just how deeply Tata’s values resonated with the public. Many felt a personal connection to the industrialist, despite never having met him. Comments such as “It feels like a personal loss” and “We lost a gem” reflect the collective grief felt across the country, as millions mourned the loss of a man who had become a symbol of integrity, kindness, and leadership.
Tata’s humility, often cited as one of his most endearing qualities, shone through even in his final moments. Despite his immense wealth and influence, he chose to lead a life marked by simplicity and compassion.
In an era when business leaders are often seen as detached from societal issues, Tata stood out as a rare figure who remained deeply connected to the struggles and aspirations of ordinary people.
A Nation Mourns the Loss of a True Icon
The news of Ratan Tata’s passing was met with widespread grief across India. Leaders from various fields expressed their condolences, praising Tata for his contributions to the nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Tata “a titan of industry and a giant of humanity,” while industrialists, politicians, and social activists paid tribute to his life and legacy.
The respect Ratan Tata commanded was not limited to India. Globally, he was admired for his ethical approach to business, his visionary leadership, and his dedication to improving the lives of people around the world. Under his stewardship, Tata Group became a global conglomerate, with a presence in over 100 countries.
Yet, even as the company expanded internationally, Tata always prioritized corporate social responsibility, ensuring that the company’s success translated into tangible benefits for society.
As the nation comes to terms with his loss, there is a palpable sense that Ratan Tata’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations. His life’s work, rooted in the principles of compassion, humility, and service, will remain a guiding light for those who seek to build a more just and inclusive world.
In many ways, Tata’s passing marks not just the end of a remarkable life but also the beginning of a new chapter, in which his values will continue to shape the course of India’s future.
The multifaith prayer service held in honor of Ratan Tata is a powerful reminder of the unity that defines his legacy. As priests from different religions gathered to offer their prayers, they symbolized the deep respect and admiration that Tata commanded from people of all faiths.
In life, Tata championed the causes of inclusion and diversity, and in death, he brought together people from different backgrounds to honor his memory.
Ratan Tata’s life was a testament to the belief that true success lies not in wealth or power, but in the impact one has on the lives of others. As the nation mourns his passing, his legacy of humility, service, and compassion will continue to inspire and guide future generations.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏