Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to attend the funeral of Ratan Tata, the iconic industrialist, in Mumbai on Thursday. Sources confirmed that Shah will represent the Government of India and pay respects to Tata’s mortal remains.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, unable to attend due to his visit to Laos for the ASEAN-India and East Asia Summits, has entrusted Shah with this duty.
In a message expressing his sorrow, Amit Shah described Ratan Tata as a "legendary industrialist and true nationalist." He emphasised Tata's lifelong dedication to the nation's development and said that each of their meetings left him inspired by Tata's commitment and passion for the betterment of India.
Shah highlighted Tata’s role in improving the lives of countless people across the country, remarking that his legacy will continue to flourish in the dreams he helped to nurture.
He further added that Ratan Tata’s influence and impact on the nation would endure, regardless of time. "Time cannot take away Ratan Tata Ji from his beloved nation. He will live on in our hearts," Shah stated.
He also expressed his condolences to the Tata Group and the many people who admired the late industrialist, ending his message with "Om Shanti Shanti Shanti."
Ratan Tata passed away on Wednesday night at the age of 86 in a hospital in Mumbai. He was a highly respected figure, both in business and philanthropy, and his contributions to India’s development are widely acknowledged. The Maharashtra government has decided to accord him a state funeral in recognition of his services to the nation.
For those wishing to pay their respects, Tata’s mortal remains will be placed at the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) in south Mumbai. The body will be available for public viewing from 10 am to 4 pm on Thursday. This will give people an opportunity to honour and remember the man who left a lasting mark on India's industrial landscape.
Ratan Tata's passing has been widely mourned across the country. His influence stretched far beyond the business sector, as he championed numerous philanthropic causes and development initiatives throughout his life. The decision to honour him with a state funeral reflects the high esteem in which he was held by both the public and the government.