NEW DELHI -- Ratan Tata, a former chairman of India’s oldest conglomerate Tata Sons, died at a Mumbai hospital on Wednesday night. He was 86. Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran confirmed Tata’s death and described him as his “friend, mentor, and guide” in a statement.

Ratan Naval Tata, noted industrialist, philanthropist, and former Chairman of Tata Sons breathed his last on Wednesday at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai.

Ratan Tata is reportedly in critical condition at a Mumbai hospital. The 86-year-old had yesterday assured the public about his health, stating ongoing check-ups for age-related issues are routine. ;