Simone Tata, former chairperson of Lakmé and mother of Tata Trusts chairman Noel Tata, passed away on Friday morning at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital following a brief illness. She was 95.
In an official statement, the Tata Group confirmed that the last respects for Simone Tata will be offered on Saturday morning at the Cathedral of the Holy Name Church in Colaba.
Widely hailed as the “Czarina of Indian Cosmetics,” Simone Tata played a pivotal role in transforming Lakmé into one of India’s most iconic beauty brands. She was also instrumental in establishing Westside, laying the foundation for modern fashion retail in India.
A Tata Group spokesperson said, “She will always be remembered for her contribution to the growth of Lakmé as India’s leading cosmetic brand and for establishing Westside. She also guided several philanthropic organisations, including the Sir Ratan Tata Institute.”
The statement added, “With her positivity and deep resolve, she overcame many challenges and inspired countless people. May her soul rest in peace.”
Simone Tata is survived by her son Noel Tata, daughter-in-law Aloo Mistry, and grandchildren Neville, Maya, and Leah. She was the stepmother of the late Ratan Tata.
Who Was Simone Tata?
Born Simone Naval Dunoyer in Geneva, Switzerland, she first arrived in India as a tourist in 1953. She married Naval H. Tata in 1955 and soon began her association with the Tata Group.
She joined the board of Lakmé in 1961, when it was a small subsidiary of Tata Oil Mills Company (TOMCO), known for heritage personal care brands such as Hamam, Okay, and Modi Soaps. Under her leadership and clear vision, Lakmé grew into a dominant leader in India’s beauty market.
Simone Tata was appointed chairperson of Lakmé in 1982 and became known for shaping one of India’s earliest modern consumer brands while expanding opportunities for Indian women in the beauty and fashion space.
