Sundar Pichai and Bill Gates pay tribute to Ratan Tata: Tech leaders mourn loss of iconic visionary

The world is mourning the loss of one of India's most iconic industrialists, Ratan Tata, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 86. As news of his passing spread, global tech leaders like Sundar Pichai and Bill Gates paid heartfelt tributes, honouring his visionary leadership and legacy.

In Short

• The world is mourning the loss of one of India’s most iconic industrialists, Ratan Tata
• Tata passed away on Wednesday at the age of 86
• Global tech leaders like Sundar Pichai and Bill Gates paid heartfelt tributes

The world is mourning the loss of one of India’s most iconic industrialists, Ratan Tata, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 86. Ratan Tata, known for his transformative leadership at Tata Group, was not only a giant in the business world but also a philanthropist who contributed significantly to India’s growth. As news of his passing spread, global tech leaders like Sundar Pichai and Bill Gates paid heartfelt tributes, honouring his visionary leadership and legacy.

Sundar Pichai remembers Ratan Tata's inspiration

Google CEO Sundar Pichai took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his deep condolences and share memories of his last meeting with the Tata Group Chairman Emeritus. Pichai fondly remembered discussing Google's autonomous driving technology, Waymo, with Tata, highlighting how the visionary’s thoughts on innovation and progress were always ahead of the curve.

“My last meeting with Ratan Tata at Google, we talked about the progress of Waymo, and his vision was inspiring to hear,” Pichai wrote. He praised Tata for his important role in shaping modern business leadership in India, adding that his deep commitment to making India better was always evident.

“He leaves an extraordinary business and philanthropic legacy and was instrumental in mentoring and developing the modern business leadership in India. He deeply cared about making India better. Deep condolences to his loved ones and Rest in Peace Shri Ratan Tata Ji,” Pichai added, reflecting the profound impact Tata had on both the business world and society.

Bill Gates praises Ratan Tata's global contributions

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates also paid tribute to Tata, acknowledging his lasting influence not only in India but across the globe. Gates shared his thoughts on LinkedIn, recalling how deeply moved he was by Tata’s dedication to improving lives through various initiatives.

“Ratan Tata was a visionary leader whose dedication to improving lives left an indelible mark on India—and the world. I had the privilege of meeting him on several occasions, and I was always moved by his strong sense of purpose and service to humanity,” Gates wrote.

He further mentioned how he and Tata collaborated on several projects aimed at improving health and prosperity. Gates expressed confidence that Tata’s legacy and leadership would continue to inspire future generations.

Ratan Tata's final days and state honours

Ratan Tata had been critically ill and receiving treatment at a hospital in Mumbai for age-related health issues. His passing marks the end of an era, as Tata is remembered for steering the Tata Group to global prominence and making significant contributions to India’s development.

The Maharashtra government has announced that Tata’s last rites will be conducted with full state honours. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde stated that there will be state mourning on Thursday, October 10, with the national flag flying at half-mast in government offices. The public can pay their respects at NCPA lawns in Nariman Point, Mumbai, where Tata's body is kept before the final rites.