India mourns the loss of Ratan Tata as Tendulkar, Rohit express their grief
Tata Group, a name synonymous with everything from ‘salt to software,’ has had a significant impact on Indian cricket.
India has lost one of its most celebrated industrialists, Ratan Tata, the Emeritus Chairman of Tata Group.
The 86-year-old passed away on Wednesday, 2 October, while receiving treatment at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai.
The conglomerate's association with the sport dates back to the 1996 Titan Cup, where Tata Group was the primary sponsor.
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The tournament, featuring India, Australia, and South Africa, saw Sachin Tendulkar's India emerge as the champions. However, in the late 1990s, as the match-fixing scandal unfolded, Tata Group, led by Ratan Tata, distanced itself from Indian cricket.
Years later, Tata Group stepped up again, investing in Indian cricket during a critical moment. In 2020, when political tensions caused Chinese firm Vivo to pull out as the IPL's title sponsor, Tata took over the sponsorship duties.
Tata Group signed a ₹2,500 crore deal for four years, making it the biggest sponsorship deal in the history of the tournament. Following this success, the BCCI launched the Women's Premier League, with Tata Group extending their sponsorship until 2027.
Ratan Tata also had personal ties with many cricketers, which made his passing particularly emotional for the cricketing fraternity.
On social media platform X, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar wrote, "In both life and death, Mr Ratan Tata has touched the hearts of the entire nation. I feel fortunate to have spent time with him. For those who never had the chance to meet him, the sorrow today is likely as profound as mine. His influence was remarkable."
India's Test and ODI captain, Rohit Sharma, expressed his grief, stating, "A heart of gold. Sir, you will always be remembered for truly dedicating your life to the betterment of others."
Another Indian cricket icon, Virender Sehwag, shared his thoughts on X, writing, "India has lost a true gem in Shri Ratan Tataji. His life is an inspiration to all of us, and he will live on in my heart."
Former Indian wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik also paid tribute, saying, "Rest in peace, India's icon. A role model for many and an inspiration for the entire nation. Mr Ratan Tata, your legacy will live forever."
Tata's death has left a void not only in India's industrial landscape but also in the hearts of millions, including the nation's cricketing legends.
