Ratan Tata, the iconic businessman and philanthropist, passed away on Wednesday night at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of corporate leadership and philanthropy. Tata, who led Tata Sons between 1991 and 2012, was instrumental in elevating the conglomerate to global prominence. Known for his investments, philanthropy and love of animals, he also lived a relatively modest life. Following his death, the responsibility of continuing his legacy now falls to his nephew and nieces – Leah, Maya and Neville Tata.
The trio are the children of Tata’s half-brother, Noel Tata and are expected to play key roles in the future of the Tata Group.
Leah Tata, the eldest, holds a master’s degree in Marketing from IE Business School in Madrid. She began her career in the Tata conglomerate in 2006, starting as an assistant manager at Taj Hotels. Leah is currently a Vice President at The Indian Hotels Company Limited, the group’s hospitality arm, which operates several renowned hotels across India. Over the years, she has held various positions within the company, demonstrating her leadership potential.
Like her sister, Maya Tata is also well-educated, having completed her studies at Bayes Business School and Warwick University. She has played a significant role in the Tata Group’s digital initiatives, including the launch of the Tata Neu app. Maya has been involved with Tata Digital, contributing to the group’s evolving digital strategies.
Neville Tata, the third potential successor, began his career with the group’s retail arm, Trent. He is married to Manasi Kirloskar and currently leads Star Bazaar, a Tata Group company in the retail sector.
Ratan Tata took over the reins of the Tata Group in 1991, succeeding his great-grandfather’s vision of building one of India’s largest and most respected conglomerates. During his tenure, Tata Teleservices was launched in 1996 and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) went public in 2004. Even after stepping down as chairman in 2012, Tata held the honorary title of Chairman Emeritus for several Tata companies, including Tata Motors, Tata Steel and Tata Chemicals.
Until his passing, Ratan Tata continued to oversee the Tata Trusts, one of India’s largest philanthropic organisations. Throughout his life, he was widely recognised for his contributions to business and society, receiving India’s highest civilian honours, the Padma Bhushan in 2000 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2008.
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