Ratan Tata passes away: Kamal Haasan, AR Rahman and other South stars pay tribute

Indian tycoon and Tata Group's chairman emeritus industrialist Ratan Tata passed away on Wednesday (October 9) night in a Mumbai hospital. He was 86. In a statement, Tata's family said, "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."
Ratan Tata was one of India's most internationally recognised business leaders, and is admired by people from all walks of life for his visionary leadership and compassion.
South cinema notable figures such as Kamal Haasan, AR Rahman, and Rana Daggubati among others paid tribute to the industrialist. Take a look.
Legendary actor Kamal Haasan penned a heart touching tribute to Rata Tata, and added that the tycoon was his ‘hero’. “Ratan Tata Ji was a personal hero of mine, someone I’ve tried to emulate throughout my life. A national treasure whose contributions in nation-building shall forever be etched in the story of modern India. His true richness lay not in material wealth but in his ethics, integrity, humility and patriotism.”
See More: Ratan Tata's ex girlfriend Simi Garewal mourns his loss, pens emotional farewell note: 'They say you have gone ..'
Kamal Haasan also recalled meeting Ratan Tata in 2008, after the Mumbai attacks, “In the immediate aftermath of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, I met him while staying at the iconic Taj Hotel. In that moment of national crisis, the titan stood tall and became the embodiment of the Indian spirit, to rebuild and emerge stronger as a nation. My profound condolences to his family, friends, Tata Group and my fellow Indians.”

Iconic musician AR Rahman took to X to pay tributes to Ratan Tata and wrote, “Some icons are living textbooks, teaching us about leadership, success, and legacy. Extraordinary yet human and approachable, they inspire and guide us. India has lost a true son and champion. Rest in peace, Ratan ji.”

'Baahubali' actor Rana Daggubati penned, "The Icon of leadership, philanthropy, and ethics! His legacy will continue to inspire generations. India has lost a giant today."

Musician Devi Sri Prasad aka DSP wrote, "Shri #RatanTata ji. You will be remembered for Ever sir... Thank You for the Inspiration. A True Legend... A True Icon."

Sai Dharam Tej, best known for his films in Telugu cinema, called Ratan Tata a 'true icon' as he paid tribute. In a note shared on X, Tej wrote, "The Titan and true icon, #RatanTata garu passing on. It's truly saddening. Your impact on me and the rest of the world will never be forgotten. History will remember you. Your words of wisdom have inspired and touched me deeply, Thank you for inspiring us with your humility and kindness. Rest in peace, sir. OM Shanti."

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled Ratan Tata’s demise. In a note posted on X, the PM said, “Shri Ratan Tata Ji was a visionary business leader, a compassionate soul and an extraordinary human being. He provided stable leadership to one of India’s oldest and most prestigious business houses. At the same time, his contribution went far beyond the boardroom. He endeared himself to several people thanks to his humility, kindness and an unwavering commitment to making our society better.”