Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and his uncle, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Chief Sharad Pawar, were among the prominent leaders who paid their last respects to the late industrialist Ratan Tata at the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) lawns in South Mumbai on Thursday.
Joining them in honoring Tata were NCP leader Supriya Sule and NCP working president Praful Patel, who also laid wreaths and offered tributes to the beloved industrialist. As per a statement from the Tata Trust, the mortal remains of Ratan Tata will embark on their final journey at 4 PM today.
In the statement, it was mentioned, "We request the members of the public to enter NCPA Lawns from Gate 3 and exit at Gate 2. There will be no parking available at the premises. At 4 PM, the mortal remains will be transported to the Prayer Hall at the Worli Crematorium, Dr. E. Moses Road, Worli, for the final rites."
Ratan Tata, the Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons, passed away at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai at the age of 86 on Wednesday.
In remembrance of Tata's contributions, Maharashtra Congress state president Nana Patole remarked, "Just like his (Ratan Tata) name, he was an 'Anmol Ratan' to the nation. He was an industrialist who worked for the nation and contributed to its industrial development and strengthening? On behalf of the Congress party, I pay humble tributes to him."
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced on Wednesday night that Tata's last rites would be conducted with full state honors. An official statement from the Chief Minister's Office confirmed, "The state government has declared one day of mourning in respect of Ratan Tata. All government buildings will display the national flag at half-mast, and no cultural or entertainment programs will be held today."
Condolences have poured in from across the political spectrum, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Ministers from various states expressing their sorrow at the passing of Ratan Tata.
Born on December 28, 1937, in Mumbai, Tata served as the Chairman of Ratan Tata Trust and Dorabji Tata Trust, two of the largest private-sector philanthropic trusts in India. He was at the helm of Tata Sons, the holding company of the Tata Group, from 1991 until his retirement in 2012, later being appointed Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons. His contributions to Indian industry earned him the country's second-highest civilian award, the Padma Vibhushan, in 2008.
As Mumbai and the nation mourn the loss of Ratan Tata, tributes continue to pour in, reflecting the profound impact he had on Indian society and the economy.
