Simone Tata Passes Away at 95: Lakmé Architect and Westside Founder Leaves Enduring Legacy

Simone Tata, one of the most influential architects of India’s modern beauty and retail landscape, passed away in Mumbai on Friday at the age of 95. She died at Breach Candy Hospital after a brief illness.

Born in Geneva in 1930, Simone Tata first came to India as a tourist in 1953. During this visit, she met Naval Tata, whom she married in 1955, subsequently making Mumbai her home. What followed was a remarkable journey that would leave an indelible mark on India’s consumer and fashion ecosystem.

As chairperson of Lakmé, Simone Tata steered the company through its most defining decades, transforming it from a modest cosmetics initiative—originally created because Indian women lacked access to quality beauty products—into one of the country’s most trusted and recognisable brands. Her leadership was instrumental in shaping Lakmé into a market leader long before the beauty sector exploded with global competition.

In 1996, the Tata Group sold Lakmé to Hindustan Unilever. Simone Tata then channelled the proceeds into building Westside under Trent, laying the foundation for what would become one of India’s most successful homegrown retail chains. Her pioneering vision helped introduce contemporary, organised fashion retailing to Indian consumers, years before international brands entered the market.

Beyond business, Simone Tata remained committed to philanthropy, supporting welfare and development initiatives, including those under the Sir Ratan Tata Institute.

In a statement, the Tata family paid tribute to her legacy, noting that she would be remembered “for her immense contribution to Lakmé’s growth and for laying the foundation of India’s fashion retail industry through Westside,” along with her unwavering optimism and determination.

Her last rites will take place on Saturday morning at the Cathedral of the Holy Name in Colaba, followed by a memorial mass.

Simone Tata’s life story stands as a testament to vision, resilience, and the quiet but transformative power of leadership.