Simone Tata, a transformative figure in India’s business landscape and the step-mother of Ratan Tata, has passed away at the age of 95. Known for her pivotal role in building Lakmé and founding Trent Ltd., she influenced India’s beauty and retail sectors for more than four decades. Her journey—from a tourist in India to a leader who shaped two major industries—remains an inspiring chapter in the history of Indian enterprise.
Simone Tata’s Life, Legacy & Impact on Indian Business
Born in Geneva, Switzerland, Simone Tata first visited India in 1953 as a 23-year-old tourist. During this visit, she met Naval Tata—26 years older and already divorced.
They married in 1955, after which Simone moved permanently to Mumbai, beginning a journey that would leave a lasting legacy on India’s corporate landscape.
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Simone Tata became one of the most influential forces behind Lakmé, which was originally established in 1952 after Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru encouraged the Tata Group to create an indigenous cosmetics brand.
Simone joined the company early on, gradually rising through leadership positions and becoming its chairperson in the early 1980s. Under her guidance, Lakmé transformed from a niche brand into India’s leading cosmetics company.
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When the Tata Group sold Lakmé to Hindustan Unilever in 1996 as part of a restructuring exercise, Simone Tata used the proceeds to create Trent Ltd.
Trent soon launched Westside, which grew into one of India’s most popular and successful department store chains. Through Trent, Simone laid the foundation for what would become a dominant name in modern Indian retail.
Beyond Lakmé and Trent, Simone Tata held significant positions across the Tata Group, including her role on the board of Tata Industries. Her leadership was marked by strategic thinking, customer-centric branding, and a deep understanding of consumer behaviour.
Simone Tata had been in critical condition since August 2025, battling complications related to Parkinson’s disease. She was airlifted from Dubai to Mumbai for specialized treatment and passed away at Breach Candy Hospital.
She was last seen publicly in October 2024 at the funeral of Ratan Tata, her stepson, who also battled Parkinson’s disease. Following his passing, Noel Tata succeeded him as chairman of Tata Trusts.
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