Full state honors for Ratan Tata, one day mourning announced in Maharashtra

Ratan Tata, an iconic figure in industry and philanthropy, passed away on Wednesday and will be given a state funeral by the Maharashtra government. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who praised Tata as a "unique blend of morality and entrepreneurship," announced a day of mourning on Thursday to honor the industrialist. Flags on government offices will be flown at half-mast, and all entertainment events have been canceled.

Tata's body will be placed at the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) in south Mumbai’s Nariman Point from 10.30 am to 4 pm on Thursday, allowing the public to pay their respects. At 3.30 pm, the body will be moved to the Worli crematorium for the last rites, which will be attended by Home Minister Amit Shah on behalf of the central government.

Chief Minister Shinde, in a post on X, described Tata as a "living legend" who led the Tata Group with integrity and decisiveness, helping it grow across industries. Maharashtra minister Deepak Kesarkar also confirmed that all state government programs scheduled for Thursday have been canceled to observe the mourning period.

The Tata Group, one of India’s oldest and largest conglomerates, has been shaped by Ratan Tata’s leadership over the decades, expanding its reach globally and across industries. His legacy, marked by both business acumen and social responsibility, will continue to inspire future generations.