When Ratan Tata Ensured 26/11 Terror Attack Victims Be ‘Honoured’

The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, a symbol of luxury and history, was built by Ratan Tata’s great-grandfather, Jamsetji Tata. Tragically, it became one of five locations targeted during the horrific 2008 terrorist attacks in Mumbai, which claimed 166 lives and injured over 300 others.

On November 26, 2008, ten Pakistani terrorists unleashed chaos, attacking the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Oberoi-Trident Hotel, Chabad House, Leopold Cafe, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. The Taj suffered losses exceeding Rs 400 crore as the gunmen wreaked havoc within its opulent halls. However, the hotel staff displayed extraordinary bravery, prioritizing the safety of their guests. Many employees chose to stay put, urging guests to hide under tables and evacuating them only when it was safe. One employee famously told his father, “If it goes down, I will be the last man out,” despite having lost his wife and child that night.

In the aftermath, Ratan Tata was a pillar of support for his employees. He visited the injured in hospitals and comforted families who lost loved ones. Within two weeks, the Taj Public Service Welfare Trust was established, providing financial assistance ranging from Rs 36 lakhs to Rs 85 lakhs to the families of employees killed in the attack. Those families also received full salaries until their loved ones’ expected retirement dates, and Tata ensured their children would receive quality education.

Despite the deep scars left by the attack, Tata expressed pride in Mumbai's resilience and unity. On the 12th anniversary, he wrote on Instagram, "The wanton destruction that took place... will never be forgotten. But what is more memorable is the way Mumbai, as a diverse people, came together." He emphasized the importance of honoring the sacrifices made that day and the kindness shown in the face of adversity.

Reflecting on the attacks a year later, he noted, “The hurt we endured... can never be undone. We should, however, continue to let the memory of the attacks become the source of our strength as we honor those we lost.” 

Ratan Naval Tata, who transformed a staid group into India's largest and most influential conglomerate with a string of eye-catching deals, has died. He was 86.

Tata, who was chairman of the salt to software group for more than two decades, breathed his last at south Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital at 11.30 pm on Wednesday.

A Padma Vibhushan recipient, Tata, had been in intensive care at the hospital since Monday.

A top official of the Mumbai police was the first to inform of his death, followed by a confirmation by Tata Group chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran who called Tata "a truly uncommon leader whose immeasurable contributions have shaped not only the Tata Group but also the very fabric of our nation".