Indian bishops join tributes to ‘philanthropist’ Ratan Tata

The automobile magnate who passed away yesterday at the age of 86 was also known in the country for his ‘Tata Trusts’, initiatives through which millions of people from the poorest groups were able to benefit from development opportunities. The Bishops' Conference: “A beacon of compassion and generosity: he contributed to making India a global economic power, without ever losing sight of the least”.

Bangalore (AsiaNews) - The Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CCBI) also joins in these hours the condolences of all India for the death of Ratan Tata, the great Indian businessman who died last night at the age of 86.

Tata led one of India's largest industrial groups that he transformed into a global company, with activities and holdings ranging from the automobile sector (his brands Jaguar and Land Rover, among others) to airlines, from hotels to insurance companies.

But the other face for which everyone knew him in India was the philanthropic activities he promoted, a valuable legacy that even the Catholic Church wished to highlight.

‘Ratan Tata was not only an industrial magnate,’ reads the note issued by the Ccbi, ’but also a beacon of compassion and generosity. Through the Tata Trusts and his many philanthropic initiatives, he transformed the lives of millions of people, championing the cause of the marginalised and playing a key role in India's development.

His unwavering commitment to social justice, education, health and rural development corresponded deeply with the core values of the Catholic Church, particularly in its mission to serve the poor and vulnerable'.

The Bishops' Conference recognises his significant contribution to nation-building and his role in positioning India as a global economic power, while never losing sight of the need to provide opportunities for the underprivileged.

In paying its last respects to him, ‘the Catholic Church in India offers fervent prayers for the repose of his soul and extends heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and all those touched by his inspiring leadership and boundless generosity’.

The Ccbi also invites the faithful ‘to remember Ratan Tata in their prayers, asking God to grant him eternal rest and to bring comfort to those who are mourning his loss’.