Mumbai has declared a day of mourning following the passing of Indian industrialist Ratan Tata, as the city gathered to honor the influential leader who shaped India’s business landscape. On Thursday, crowds of mourners filled the streets, paying their respects at the funeral of Tata, who passed away at 86. Revered as a “titan” of industry, Tata led one of India’s largest conglomerates, transforming the Tata Group into a global powerhouse with ventures in industries ranging from software to luxury automobiles.

Tata’s coffin, draped with the Indian flag, was escorted with a guard of honor and a procession featuring trumpets and drums. The Hindu newspaper described him as “a titan of Indian industry,” while the Hindustan Times stated, “India loses its crown jewel.” Mumbai’s official day of mourning reflects the profound national loss.

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The funeral, scheduled for Thursday afternoon, attracted a diverse gathering of ordinary citizens, prominent business figures, and political leaders, along with many Tata employees. Among the attendees, Abdul Khan, 52, expressed deep sorrow, describing Tata’s passing as both a “personal loss” and a “loss for the country,” recognizing his extensive charitable contributions. “He improved countless lives, not just for his employees but for everyone,” Khan said.

Business leaders across the nation also offered their condolences. Asia’s richest man, Mukesh Ambani, reflected on the significance of Tata’s death, calling it a “great loss not only for the Tata Group but for all Indians.”

Born in Mumbai in 1937 to a Parsi family, Tata’s community has long been integral to the city’s business world. Though initially aspiring to be an architect after studying at Cornell University, Tata returned to India in 1962 to join the family business, working his way up from a factory laborer to eventually lead the empire.

Taking control of the Tata Group in 1991 during India’s economic reforms, Tata expanded the conglomerate’s reach globally. His notable 2008 acquisition of Jaguar and Land Rover for $2.3 billion revived the struggling brands and demonstrated his strategic brilliance, as both companies returned to profitability the following year.

The Tata Group acknowledged his philanthropic legacy, stating, “His contributions to education and healthcare have had a profound impact on millions, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.”

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored Ratan Tata as “a visionary business leader, a compassionate soul, and an extraordinary human being,” praising his steady leadership of one of India’s most respected business houses.