The passing of these prominent figures in 2024 has left an indelible mark on their respective fields. Their contributions will be remembered, and their legacies will continue to influence the generations to come.
Ratan Tata
Ratan Tata, the former chairman of Tata Sons, died at the age of 86 from age-related issues on October 9, 2024. He was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai on October 7, 2024 to treat age-related issues and control his blood pressure. He played a key role in transforming the Tata Group into a strong global company while staying true to its values of honesty, quality, and helping society.
He was the grandson of Jamsetji Tata, the founder of the Tata Group. He served as the chairman of the Tata Group from 1991 to 2012. Under his leadership, the Tata Group expanded globally, acquiring companies like TetleyTea, Jaguar Land Rover, and Corus Steel.
Zakir Hussain
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Famous Indian Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain breathed his last on December 15, 2024, at the age of 73 in San Francisco, California. Son of renowned Tabla virtuoso Ustad Alla Rakha, he received several prestigious awards -- the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and the Padma Vibhushan. In his six-decade career, he collaborated with the likes of John McLaughlin, Yo-Yo Ma, and George Harrison, bringing Indian classical music to the global stage.
Pankaj Udhas
(Photo Courtesy: Pankaj Udhas/Facebook)
Renowned ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas, best known for 'Chitthi Ayee Hai' died in February 2024, following a prolonged illness. He was 72. In 2006, Pankaj Udhas was awarded Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian award. His soulful renditions have captivated audiences for decades. Born on May 17, 1951, in Gujarat. He began his musical journey at a young age and rose to prominence in the 1980s and 1990s. Beyond his musical achievements, Udhas was also known for his philanthropic endeavors, actively supporting charitable causes and initiatives aimed at social welfare. In 1989, he released an album, ‘Nabeel’, which became one of his best-selling albums. The first copy of the album was placed at an auction where it was sold for a whopping amount of Rs 1 lakh. The money was donated to the Cancer Patients Aid Association. The ghazal maestro also actively worked for Parents Thalassemia Unit. Throughout his illustrious career, Pankaj Udhas released numerous albums and singles, many of which have become timeless classics. His hit songs such as 'Chitthi Aayi Hai', 'Aur Ahista', and 'Jeeye To Jeeye Kaise' continue to resonate with listeners across generations.
Ustad Rashid Khan
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Music maestro Ustad Rashid Khan, who was undergoing treatment at a Kolkata-based hospital for prostate cancer, died in January 2024. The classical singer was 55. Khan was known for his soulful renditions. Throughout his career, Rashid Khan received numerous accolades and awards, including the Padma Shri and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, among others, in recognition of his contribution to Indian classical music. His performances in prestigious music festivals and concerts worldwide have further solidified his reputation as a maestro of Hindustani classical music. He has contributed to songs such as 'Aaoge Jab Tum', 'Aaj Koi Jogee Aave', 'Rishte Naate', 'Ishq Ka Rang', and several others.
Shyam Benegal
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Acclaimed filmmaker Shyam Benegal passed away on December 23, 2024 in Mumbai following a long battle with chronic kidney-related disease. The cinematic genius will always be regarded as the man who gave birth to parallel cinema with films like - Ankur, Mandi, Sardari Begum, Zubeidaa and more.
Benegal's work in both mainstream and art films earned him widespread acclaim for its realism, depth, and storytelling excellence. His passing marks the end of an era in Indian filmmaking.
Benegal’s career spanned over five decades, cementing his position as a pioneering filmmaker in Indian cinema. He made his debut in the film industry with the 1974 movie Ankur. His subsequent films, such as “Nishant" (1975), “Manthan" (1976), and “Bhumika" (1977), solidified his reputation as a masterful director, earning him numerous national and international accolades. Later, Benegal also made several critically acclaimed films like “Mandi" (1983), “Trikaal" (1985), and “Sardari Begum" (1996). His last release was Mujib: The Making of a Nation, which hit theatres in 2023.
Ramoji Rao
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Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, a towering figure in the Indian media and film industry and the founder of Ramoji Film City, died at 87 in Hyderabad in June 2024. He was renowned for his entrepreneurial prowess and contributions to media conglomerates. Born on November 16, 1936, into an agricultural family in Andhra Pradesh's Pedaparupudi, Ramoji Rao grew up with a strong connection to farming. He pursued his education in literature and later became a successful businessman and media entrepreneur.
Sharda Sinha
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Sharda Sinha, popularly known as 'Bihar Kokila' succumbed to blood poisoning complications on November 05, 2024. She was 72. A renowned Indian folk singer celebrated for her immense contributions to Bhojpuri, Maithili, and Magahi music. She has been instrumental in bringing Bihar’s traditional music to a wider audience. Among her most popular songs are Kelwa Ke Paat Par Ugalan Suraj Mal Jhake Jhuke, Hey Chhathi Maiya, Ho Dinanath, Bahangi Lachakat Jaaye, Roje Roje Ugelaa, Suna Chhathi Maai, Jode Jode Supawa, and Patna Ke Ghat Par. She was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2018.
Rohit Bal
(Photo courtesy: Rohit Bal/Facebook)
Celebrated fashion designer Rohit Bal died following a heart attack on Nov 1, 2024. The 63-year-old was known for his exquisite designs, and his creations were worn by global celebrities such as Cindy Crawford, Pamela Anderson and Uma Thurman.
Fali S Nariman
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A distinguished Indian lawyer, Fali S Nariman died at the age of 95 from multiple ailments, including cardiovascular disease in February 2024. He strongly believed in a secular India and championed free speech. Nariman had resigned as Additional Solicitor General during the Emergency to protest censorship.
