Indian industrialist Ratan Tata, who is credited with transforming the Tata Group into a globally renowned conglomerate, has died at age 86, the company said late Wednesday.
Under Tata, the company grew into a sprawling international enterprise with a portfolio ranging from software to sports cars.
“It is with a profound sense of loss that we bid farewell to Mr Ratan Naval Tata, a truly uncommon leader whose immeasurable contributions have shaped not only the Tata Group but also the very fabric of our nation,” company chairman N. Chandrasekaran said in a statement.
“I extend our condolences to his loved ones. His legacy will continue to inspire us as we strive to uphold the principles he so passionately championed.”
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Tata “a visionary business leader, a compassionate soul and an extraordinary human being”.