In a poignant gesture, actor Rajinikanth paid his respects to the legendary industrialist and philanthropist Ratan Tata, who passed away on October 9. The revered actor took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a touching picture of himself bowing down to Ratan Tata, a visual representation of his admiration and reverence for the man who significantly influenced India's industrial landscape.
Rajinikanth captioned the image with a heartfelt note, honoring Tata as a “legendary icon” who put India on the global map through his vision and passion. The actor reflected on Tata's remarkable contributions to the nation, stating, "The man who inspired thousands of industrialists… The man who created lakhs and lakhs of jobs for many generations… The man who was loved and respected by all." His post resonated deeply with fans, many of whom expressed their condolences with folded hands and heart emojis.
Rajinikanth continued, “My deepest salutations to him. I will forever cherish every moment spent with this great soul. A true son of India is no more. Rest in peace. #RatanTata.” The actor’s words encapsulated the profound impact Ratan Tata had on the country, emphasizing his legacy of innovation, leadership, and compassion.
Ratan Tata’s Legacy
Ratan Tata, who served as chairman of the Tata Group for over two decades, was a pivotal figure in transforming the conglomerate into a global powerhouse. His tenure saw the introduction of iconic products and initiatives, including the Tata Nano, which aimed to provide affordable transportation, and the acquisition of several international brands, enhancing India’s presence in the global market. He was a recipient of the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award, reflecting his stature in both business and philanthropy.
Tata passed away peacefully at 11:30 PM on October 9 at Breach Candy Hospital in south Mumbai, where he had been receiving treatment for age-related medical conditions. Earlier that week, he had posted on social media, reassuring followers that there was no cause for concern regarding his health.
Upcoming Projects for Rajinikanth
While Rajinikanth mourns the loss of a cherished friend and mentor, he also continues to engage with his work. His latest film, Vettaiyan, directed by TJ Gnanavel, premiered in theaters on October 10. The action-packed film features a star-studded cast, including Amitabh Bachchan, Fahadh Faasil, Manju Warrier, Rana Daggubati, Ritika Singh, and Dushara Vijayan. Early reviews have been mixed, but the film showcases Rajinikanth in the role of an encounter specialist, promising action and drama.
Additionally, Rajinikanth is currently shooting for Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, alongside actors Nagarjuna, Soubin Shahir, Shruti Haasan, Sathyaraj, and Nimma Upendra. As fans and industry colleagues reflect on Ratan Tata's legacy, Rajinikanth’s tribute serves as a reminder of the lasting impact Tata had on the lives of many, including those in the entertainment industry.