The year 2024 will be remembered as one marked by profound loss, as we bid goodbye to several influential figures from diverse fields, including business, music, politics, and arts. These remarkable individuals, who left an indelible mark on society, will continue to live on in our memories. Here, we recount the lives and legacies of 16 prominent personalities who left us this year.
Ratan Tata: A Business Icon
On October 9, 2024, Ratan Tata, the 86-year-old former chairman of Tata Sons, passed away in Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital. Honored with the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, Tata was the driving force behind the acquisition of iconic brands like Jaguar Land Rover and Corus Steel during his tenure from 1991 to 2012. Born into the legendary Tata family, Ratan Tata transformed Tata Group into a global powerhouse. His loss marks the end of an era in Indian business.
Acharya Vidyasagar: A Spiritual Luminary
The revered Digambar Jain monk Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj breathed his last on February 17, 2024, at the age of 78 in Dongargarh, Chhattisgarh. Known for his simplicity and discipline, Acharya Vidyasagar had renounced worldly pleasures at the age of 21 to embrace a monastic life. His spiritual teachings and literary contributions remain a guiding light for millions of followers.
Ustad Rashid Khan: A Classical Maestro
On January 9, 2024, the world of Hindustani classical music lost its gem, Ustad Rashid Khan, at the age of 55. Born in 1968, Rashid Khan was a prodigy from the Rampur-Sahaswan gharana, captivating audiences from the tender age of 11. With a Padma Bhushan to his name, his soulful renditions and dedication to preserving classical music will be deeply missed.
Fali Sam Nariman: A Legal Titan
The legal fraternity mourned the loss of Fali S. Nariman, who passed away on February 21, 2024, at 95. Known as the “Bhishma Pitamah of Indian Judiciary,” Nariman was a fearless advocate who resigned as Additional Solicitor General during the Emergency in 1975. His towering intellect and unwavering integrity left an indelible mark on Indian law.
Ramoji Rao: The Media Mogul
Founder of the iconic Ramoji Film City, Ramoji Rao, passed away on June 8, 2024, at the age of 87. A pioneer in media and entertainment, Rao established the largest film studio in the world and was the visionary behind the Telugu newspaper Eenadu. His contributions to journalism and cinema made him a legend in his lifetime.
Om Prakash Chautala: A Political Stalwart
Former Chief Minister of Haryana, O.P. Chautala, passed away on December 20, 2024, at the age of 89. Known for his grassroots leadership, Chautala served as Haryana’s CM five times. Despite controversies, his political acumen and rapport with the masses left an enduring legacy in Indian politics.
Pankaj Udhas: The Ghazal Virtuoso
On February 26, 2024, celebrated ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas bid adieu at 72. Known for his soulful voice and timeless songs like Chitthi Aayi Hai, Udhas brought ghazals to the mainstream. His journey from Gujarat’s Saurashtra to global fame remains an inspiration for aspiring artists.
Shyam Benegal: A Filmmaking Pioneer
The Indian film industry lost its visionary filmmaker Shyam Benegal on December 23, 2024, at 90. Renowned as the father of Indian art cinema, Benegal crafted masterpieces like Zubeidaa and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero. His contributions to cinema, with over 24 films and 45 documentaries, earned him a lasting place in cinematic history.
Ustad Zakir Hussain: The Tabla Legend
On December 16, 2024, the world mourned the loss of tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain, who passed away at 73 in the United States. A globally acclaimed percussionist, Zakir Hussain won four Grammy Awards during his illustrious career, including three in 2024. His collaborations with Western musicians, including The Beatles, brought Indian classical music to the world stage.
Each of these luminaries left an indelible legacy in their respective fields, and their contributions will continue to inspire generations to come. As 2024 draws to a close, we remember and honor their remarkable lives, cherishing the memories they left behind.