Ratan Tata Passes Away: Riteish Deshmukh Recalls Rome Encounter, Calls Him 'Icon Of Grace'

Ratan Tata, the revered chairman emeritus of Tata Group, one of India’s largest conglomerates, passed away on October 9 at the age of 86 in Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital. He had been in critical condition and undergoing treatment in the ICU. The news of his passing sparked an outpouring of grief from all quarters, including heartfelt tributes from the Indian film industry. Among those who remembered him fondly was actor Riteish Deshmukh, who shared a memorable encounter with Tata during his honeymoon in Rome in 2012, accompanied by his wife, Genelia D’Souza.

Reflecting on the cherished memory through his X (formerly Twitter) account, Riteish wrote, “As I look back, April 2012 feels like a lifetime ago. Genelia and I were basking in the joy of our honeymoon in Rome. Little did we know, our breakfast at the hotel would become an unforgettable experience. Genelia nudged me, her eyes locked on a familiar figure far across the room – Mr. Ratan Tata. My father and he shared a fond relationship, but I never had the pleasure of meeting him before. I mustered the courage to approach him, and before I could introduce myself, he welcomed me with a warm smile, ‘Hello Riteish.’ His apology for missing our wedding, due to travel, touched my heart. It was a gesture that spoke volumes about the man he was – gracious, thoughtful, and kind.”

The actor continued, “As I mentioned Genelia’s presence, he asked where she was. I looked at Genelia and asked her to join us, but before she could even take a step, without hesitation, he rose from his seat and walked towards her. His words, ‘One should never make a lady walk, always go to her to say hello,’ are etched in my memory forever. In that fleeting moment, I witnessed the essence of Mr. Tata – elegance, humility, and chivalry. His presence commanded respect, not just for his accomplishments but for the person he was.”

Riteish concluded his tribute with heartfelt words, saying, “Years have passed, but the memory remains vivid. I cherish that encounter, not just for the lessons learned but for the warmth and kindness he shared with us. Mr. Tata, you will always be remembered as a legend, a true icon of grace and compassion. Your legacy continues to inspire generations. You will live on forever.”

The veteran industrialist, a Padma Vibhushan awardee, breathed his last at 11:30 pm, according to a senior police official. He had been admitted to the hospital for several days leading up to his passing.

In an official statement, the Tata family expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of love and respect, saying, “We, his brothers, sisters, and family, take solace and comfort in the outpouring of love and respect from all who admired him. While he is no longer with us in person, his legacy of humility, generosity, and purpose will continue to inspire future generations.You will live on forever. Riteish Deshmukh.”

N Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons, also paid his respects, stating, “It is with a profound sense of loss that we bid farewell to Ratan Naval Tata, a truly uncommon leader whose immeasurable contributions have shaped not only the Tata Group but also the very fabric of our nation.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also shared his condolences on social media, stating that he was “extremely pained by his passing away.”

Ratan Tata’s illustrious career included serving as the chairman of the Tata Group from 1990 to 2012, and as interim chairman from October 2016 to February 2017. Even after stepping down, he continued to guide the group’s charitable trusts until his final days. Born to Naval Tata, who was adopted by Ratanji Tata, the son of Tata Group founder Jamsetji Tata, Ratan Tata’s legacy extends far beyond the business world, leaving an indelible mark on India’s social and philanthropic landscape.