India mourns industrialist Ratan Tata. TATA SONS

India is observing a day of mourning as the state funeral of industrialist Ratan Tata was underway on Thursday (October 10). Maharashtra’s government declared a national mourning period, with flags flown at half-mast and government cultural events suspended. Tata, who passed away at the age of 86 on Wednesday (October 9), was given full state honours. Crowds gathered at the NCPA Lawns in Mumbai to pay their final respects, with many prominent figures, including Maharashtra's Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, attending the procession. Tata’s mortal remains will be taken to Worli Crematorium for the final rites. Ratan Tata, a visionary who steered Tata Group to global prominence, is widely remembered for his philanthropy. Throughout his career, he focused on using his success to uplift society, particularly through his work with Tata Trust, one of the largest philanthropic organizations in India. Sachin Tendulkar, one of India’s cricket legends, expressed his sorrow. “In his life and demise, Mr. Tata has moved the nation. He showed that true progress can only be achieved when we care for those who cannot care for themselves,” Tendulkar wrote on Instagram. Tata’s leadership took Tata Group to unprecedented heights with high-profile acquisitions like Jaguar and Land Rover. Under his stewardship, Tata Sons became synonymous with ethical business practices and social responsibility. Other notable tributes came from celebrities such as AR Rahman, Priyanka Chopra, and Ajay Devgn, who praised his visionary leadership and dedication to philanthropy. AR Rahman called him “extraordinary yet human,” adding that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations. ICA/Expat Media
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