Biocon founder honors the lasting legacy of Lakmé’s visionary pioneer.

The Indian corporate world is in mourning following the demise of Simone Tata, a visionary leader who redefined the beauty industry in the country. Leading the tributes was Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, the Executive Chairperson of Biocon, who expressed profound grief over the passing of a woman she described as a personal icon.

Taking to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Mazumdar-Shaw shared a heartfelt message, referring to the late businesswoman as her "shero." She highlighted the massive impact the Tata matriarch had on female leadership in India, calling her the "doyen of women business leaders."

Mazumdar-Shaw praised the courage and sharp business sense it took to build Lakmé into a household name, noting that her contribution to the "cosmetic era in India" is a legacy that will never be forgotten. She extended her deepest sympathies to Noel Tata and the grieving family.

A Life of Grace and Business Acumen

Simone Tata breathed her last on Friday morning at the age of 95. She had been admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital and passed away following a brief illness. She held a significant place in one of India's most prominent families, being the mother of current Tata Trusts Chairman Noel Tata and the stepmother of the late, legendary Ratan Tata.

Born in Geneva, Switzerland, as Simone Naval Dunoyer, her journey with India began as a traveler in 1953. Her bond with the country was cemented two years later when she married Naval H. Tata. By 1961, she had entered the corporate sphere, joining the board of Lakmé, which was then a modest subsidiary of the Tata Oil Mills Company.

Building an Empire

Under her stewardship, Lakmé transformed from a small unit into India’s premier cosmetics brand. She took over as Chairperson in 1982, earning the title "Cosmetic Czarina of India" for her pivotal role in modernizing the beauty sector. Beyond cosmetics, she was instrumental in the retail revolution, laying the groundwork for the successful Westside chain under Trent.

The Tata Group released an official statement confirming that her final rites would be performed on Saturday at the Cathedral of the Holy Name Church in Colaba. The Group honored her spirit, stating, "With her positivity and deep resolve, she overcame many challenges in her life while touching many of us deeply."

She leaves behind her son Noel Tata, daughter-in-law Aloo Mistry, and her grandchildren, Leah, Maya, and Neville.