He joined the group in 1963 and handled many key positions in various verticals of the company. He was also a major contributor to the acquisition of several companies by Tata.

In 2009, Krishnakumar was awarded Padma Shri. He retired as a board member of Tata Sons in 2013.

In his condolence message Tata Group Emeritus Chairman Ratan Tata said, “Words cannot describe the deep sense of loss I feel on the passing of my friend and colleague R. K. Krishnakumar. I will always fondly remember the camaraderie we shared both within the group and personally. He was a true veteran of the Tata group and the Tata Trusts and will be missed dearly by all.”

Tata Group chairman N Chandrasekaran condoled the death of Krishnakumar.

Lauding Krishnakumar’s “enormous contribution to the Tata Group”, Chandrasekaran said that he “had the good fortune of knowing him and what stood out was his deep sense of compassion as a human being”.

“He always wanted to help the less privileged and positively impact their lives,” he added.

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan took to Twitter to express his condolences. “Deeply saddened to hear the passing of Padma Shri R. K. Krishnakumar, former Tata Sons director and
@TataCompanies veteran. Born in Thalassery, he was vital to many pivotal moves by the group, including strengthening ties with Kerala. Heartfelt condolences to family and friends,” he wrote.

The cremation is on Monday at 4 in the evening.