One of the most eminent names in the country’s corporate sector, Russi Mody, Former Chairman of Tata Iron and Steel Co (Tisco, now known as Tata Steel) died at his residence in Kolkata late on Friday night. Known for his flamboyance, Mody was 96 years old.
He was the Chairman of Tisco from 1984 to March 1993, died at his Alipore home in South Kolkata. Born in a Parsi family in Bombay Presidency on January 17, 1918, Mody was educated at Harrow and went on to do his graduation from Christ College, london.
He joined Tisco in 1939 and went on to become its chairman. Following his retirement, he took over as the joint chairman of Air India and erstwhile Indian Airlines. He had made Kolkata his home and lived alone.
Padma Bhushan Rustomji Homusji Mody, popularly known as Russi Mody, was remembered fondly by Ratan Tata, Chairman Emeritus, Tata Sons limited. Condoling Mody's death, Tata said "Russi Mody was an institution at Tata Steel. Under his leadership Tata Steel grew significantly and he instituted many human resource initiatives. "He was well regarded and respected by the work force throughout his tenure.
He lived a full and energetic life and will always be remembered by his friends," Tata said in a message about the former chairman of Tisco, which later came to be known as Tata Steel.
Cyrus P Mistry, Group Chairman, Tata Sons, said "Russi Mody was a stalwart who steered Tata Steel to become one of India’s most respected corporations. "His vision was all encompassing: excellence in business, enduring commitment to society and focus on the dignity of the individual," he said about Mody.