
In a heartfelt tribute to his close relationships and commitment to philanthropy, Ratan Tata has named his mentee and executive assistant, Shantanu Naidu, in his will. Tata, who passed away earlier this month at the age of 86, also made provisions for his beloved German Shepherd, Tito, and his long-time associates.
Special Provisions for Tito
One of the most notable aspects of Tata’s will is the extraordinary provision made for Tito. Ratan Tata requested “unlimited care” for his cherished pet, reflecting a rare move among affluent individuals in India to ensure their pets are well taken care of. Tito, who has been with Tata for the past five to six years, shares a name with his late dog. The care of Tito has been entrusted to Tata’s long-time cook, Rajan Shaw.
Financial Legacy and Personal Relationships
Beyond the affectionate provisions for Tito, Tata’s estate, valued at over ₹10,000 crore, will benefit his half-sisters, Shireen and Deanna Jejeebhoy, as well as household staff and close associates. Notably, the will includes Tata’s butler, Subbaiah, with whom he shared a bond for over three decades. Tata was known for his generosity, often gifting designer clothes to his staff following his trips abroad.
Shantanu Naidu’s inclusion in the will underscores the unique bond he shared with Tata. The will indicates that Tata relinquished his stake in Naidu’s companionship venture, Goodfellows, and waived his education loans, further demonstrating the depth of their mentor-mentee relationship.
Charitable Intentions and Impressive Assets
Ratan Tata’s assets include a 2,000-square-foot beach bungalow in Alibaug, a two-storey residence on Juhu Tara Road in Mumbai, and fixed deposits exceeding ₹350 crore. Additionally, he held a 0.83 percent stake in Tata Sons, the holding company of the $165 billion Tata Group. Following his wishes, this stake will be transferred to the Ratan Tata Endowment Foundation (RTEF), a charitable trust established to support various philanthropic initiatives.
Tata’s legacy extends beyond his substantial financial contributions; it encapsulates his enduring relationships and commitment to social causes. His will serves as a testament to the values he championed throughout his life, leaving an indelible mark on his mentees, family, and the philanthropic community at large.
Sources By Agencies