On Thursday morning, the mortal remains of renowned industrialist Ratan Tata were brought to the NCPA lawns in Mumbai’s Nariman Point, draped in the national flag. This allowed the public to pay their respects before his state funeral. According to Tata Trust, the remains will begin their final journey at 4 PM, heading to the Prayer Hall at Worli Crematorium for the last rites.
The public was invited to enter through Gate 3 of the NCPA lawns, with clear instructions on access and exit, and a large crowd gathered to bid farewell to the industrial legend. Meanwhile, a police band performed funeral music during the procession, and Marine Drive road beyond the Oberoi hotel was cordoned off for security reasons.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah will attend the funeral on behalf of the Government of India, while Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde confirmed that Tata’s last rites will be conducted with full state honors. The Maharashtra government declared a day of mourning, with flags at half-mast on all government buildings and a suspension of cultural events. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with other leaders from across the nation, extended their condolences.
Born on December 28, 1937, in Mumbai, Ratan Tata served as the Chairman of Tata Sons, leading the group from 1991 until his retirement in 2012. Following his retirement, he remained actively involved as Chairman Emeritus, leading major philanthropic initiatives through the Ratan Tata Trust and Dorabji Tata Trust. For his outstanding contributions, he was honored with the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award, in 2008.
