One of the stalwarts and icons of modern India, Ratan Tata, who was the former chairman of TATA group, breathed his last at the age of 86 in Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital. He was one the leading industrialists in Indian history, and had earned respect from people of all walks of life due to his personality and demeanour. The people of the Indian sports fraternity too expressed their condolences in abundance at his passing.
Team India Test and ODI captain Rohit Sharma posted an Instagram story where he gave a heartfelt tribute to Ratan Tata. "A man with a heart of gold. Sir, you will truly be remembered who truly cared and lived his life to make everyone else's better," the Indian captain wrote.
Former opening batter Virender Sehwag called Ratan Tata a true "Ratan (jewel)" of India. "We have lost a true Ratan of Bharat, Shri Ratan Tata ji. His life will be an inspiration for us all and he will continue to live in our hearts. Om Shanti," he wrote in a post on his X account.
Tokyo Olympics 2022 gold medallist also expressed his condolences on the passing of Ratan Tata. I’m very sorry to hear about the passing of Shri Ratan Tata ji. He was a visionary, and I’ll never forget the conversation I had with him. He inspired this entire nation. I pray that his loved ones find strength. Om Shanti," he wrote in a post on his X account.
Here are some of te tributes that poured in from the Indian sporting community on Ratan Tata:
I’m very sorry to hear about the passing of Shri Ratan Tata ji. He was a visionary, and I’ll never forget the conversation I had with him. He inspired this entire nation. I pray that his loved ones find strength. Om Shanti. 🙏
— Neeraj Chopra (@Neeraj_chopra1) October 9, 2024
We have lost a true Ratan of Bharat, Shri Ratan Tata ji.His life will be an inspiration for us all and he will continue to live in our hearts. Om Shanti 🙏🏼🌸 pic.twitter.com/CvTRS3VYXp
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) October 9, 2024
Saddened by the loss of a great leader. Rest in peace, Mr. @RNTata2000. Your kindness and contributions will always be remembered. 🙏
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) October 9, 2024
I’m deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Shri Ratan Tata. His vision and leadership have profoundly shaped not only the Tata Group but also the landscape of Indian industry. His commitment to innovation and philanthropy has left a lasting legacy that will continue to… pic.twitter.com/cIKqZ9jFjO
— Pragyan Ojha (@pragyanojha) October 9, 2024
“For the Tata Group, Mr. Tata was more than a chairperson. To me, he was a mentor, guide and friend. He inspired by example. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation, the Tata Group under his stewardship expanded its global footprint while always remaining true to its moral compass,” an official statement from the Tata Group read.