'Ok Tata bye bye': Paytm's Vijay Shekhar Sharma deletes post on Ratan Tata after receiving flak

Vijay Shekhar Sharma deleted the post after receiving criticism, but not before screenshots circulated widely across social media platforms

Following the death of Ratan Tata at the age of 86, numerous tech CEOs and industry leaders paid tribute to the legendary industrialist, whose leadership transformed Tata Group into a global powerhouse. Leading figures, including Bhavish Aggarwal (CEO of Ola), Anupam Mittal (CEO of People Group), Manu Kumar Jain (former CEO of Xiaomi India), Vijay Shekhar Sharma (CEO of Paytm), and Ashneer Grover (former CEO of BharatPe), expressed their respect and gratitude for Tata’s contributions to Indian industry and philanthropy.

Vijay Shekhar Sharma, however, found himself facing backlash on social media. In his original post, Sharma wrote, "A legend who will inspire every generation. Entrepreneurs of the next generation will miss interacting with the most humble businessman of India. Salutes, Sir. Ok Tata Bye Bye." The phrase "Ok Tata Bye Bye" was seen by many as inappropriate and disrespectful, prompting a swift criticism online. Users described the wording as flippant, and some speculated the post may have been written hastily.

wtf is the last line pic.twitter.com/dOrIeMQH7c
Shivam Sourav Jha (@ShivamSouravJha) October 10, 2024

Sharma deleted the post after receiving criticism, but not before screenshots circulated widely across social media platforms. Addressing the controversy, Sharma later issued a revised statement on X, saying, “RNT for me was the most humbling business leader of India. Future generations of business leaders will miss his generous interactions and kindness.”

RNT for me was the most humbling business leader of India. Future generations of business leaders will miss his generous interactions and kindness. Salutes Sir You will live in our hearts forever. https://t.co/Ycv2B06OYb pic.twitter.com/oqgDTis8d5Vijay Shekhar Sharma (@vijayshekhar) October 10, 2024

Ratan Tata’s death has left a deep void. His leadership, defined by humility and integrity, continues to inspire generations of entrepreneurs. Thousands of people, including top political leaders and corporate executives, gathered at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) in Mumbai to pay their respects. Tata was cremated with full state honours, and his final rites were attended by several dignitaries, including Home Minister Amit Shah, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and industrialists like Anand Mahindra.