Ratan Tata’s trusted aide Shantanu Naidu mourned the loss of the national icon in a post shared early this morning. Ratan Tata, chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, one of India’s largest conglomerates, died late Wednesday evening after a short illness. He was 86.

A leading icon of industry and philanthropy, Ratan Tata’s death is a national loss – mourned by business tycoons like Anand Mahindra and Harsh Goenka. However, for those closest to him, it also brings a sense of personal sadness.

In his LinkedIn post, Ratan Tata’s close aide Shantanu Naidu reflected not on his many business achievements but on their close friendship.

“I will try to fill the hole that this friendship has left for me for the rest of my life. Sadness is the price you have to pay for love. Goodbye, my dear lighthouse,” wrote the 30-year-old managing director of Ratan Tata’s office. He also shared a throwback photo of them together.

Shantanu Naidu’s unlikely friendship with Ratan Tata blossomed through their shared love for animals. The two met in 2014, when Naidu developed reflective collars to protect stray dogs from being hit by cars at night. Impressed by his initiative, the chairman emeritus of Tata Sons invited Naidu to work for him.

Over the past decade, Shantanu Naidu became a close and trusted friend of Ratan Tata, who never married or had children.

During his last years, Ratan Tata was frequently accompanied by Naidu in his rare public appearances.

Death of Ratan Tata

Ratan Tata, chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, has passed away at the Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai at the age of 86.

In a statement, Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran said the business leader not only shaped the Tata Group but also the fabric of the nation.

Read his full statement below:

It is with a deep sense of loss that we bid farewell to Mr. Ratan Naval Tata, a truly extraordinary leader whose immeasurable contributions shaped not only the Tata Group but also the fabric of our nation.”

“For the Tata Group, Mr. Tata was more than a chairman. To me he was a mentor, guide and friend. He inspired by example. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity and innovation, the Tata Group under his leadership has expanded its global footprint, while always staying true to its moral compass.”

“Sir. Tata’s commitment to philanthropy and community development has touched the lives of millions of people. From education to healthcare, his initiatives have left a deep-rooted mark that will benefit generations to come. What enhanced all this work was Mr. Tata’s genuine humility in every individual interaction.”

On behalf of the entire Tata family, I extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones.”

“His legacy will continue to inspire us as we strive to uphold the principles he so passionately championed.”