With the recent passing of the legendary industrialist and philanthropist Ratan Tata, people everywhere are wondering: where will his immense legacy go? Known for his compassion and generosity, Ratan Tata will leave quite a few surprises, including unexpected beneficiaries like his pet dog, Tito, his devoted half-sisters, Shireen and Deanna Jejeebhoy, and his trusted aide, Shantanu Naidu.
Ratan Tata’s Will: His Beloved Confidants and Tito, the Dog, Are Key Beneficiaries
Ratan Tata’s will is a testament to his loyalty and appreciation for the people (and animals) closest to him. This highly respected industrialist didn’t follow a traditional route; instead, he chose to divide his estate amongst family and trusted friends, including his half-sisters Shireen and Deanna Jejeebhoy, and his brother Jimmy Tata.
Interestingly, his kindness extended beyond family members to individuals who played a significant role in his daily life. This included his loyal butler and his assistant, Shantanu Naidu. And yes, his adored German Shepherd, Tito, is also mentioned in the will—he ensured Tito would receive lifetime care and affection through his longtime cook, Rajan Shaw, who will now be the devoted caretaker.
Devotion Rewarded: Shantanu Naidu and Tata’s Loyal Butler Recognized
Ratan Tata’s will goes above and beyond mere family ties, demonstrating his profound respect for close confidants. One such figure is Shantanu Naidu, Tata’s young executive assistant and animal welfare enthusiast, whose bond with Tata grew over a shared love for dogs. This relationship led to Naidu joining Tata’s private office, RNT, and creating projects like Goodfellows and Motopaws with Tata’s support. Tata’s generosity toward Naidu extended to forgiving a personal loan for Naidu’s overseas studies and transferring his stake in Goodfellows to him—showcasing Tata’s generosity.
Tata also honoured his loyal butler, Subbiah, who served him for three decades. Subbiah had often received luxury clothing as a gift during Tata’s travels, a warm recognition of his long years of service.
Continuing His Philanthropy: Ratan Tata’s Foundation and Other Assets
A charming scene with the unassuming #RatanTata on his 84th birthday pic.twitter.com/wkmm7jhCyZ
— Harsh Goenka (@hvgoenka) December 29, 2021
Ratan Tata’s legacy of philanthropy doesn’t stop here. A significant chunk of his assets is directed to the Ratan Tata Endowment Foundation (RTEF), a body established in 2022 that supports nonprofits and key causes. RTEF is set to continue under N. Chandrasekaran’s leadership, managing Tata’s shares in companies like Tata Sons and Tata Motors. His foundation shares will support various initiatives, reflecting his lasting commitment to societal upliftment.
In addition to the foundation, the estate also provides for his brother Jimmy and half-sisters Shireen and Deanna.
His Estate: Properties, Cars, and Heirlooms
Ratan Tata’s estate includes some of Mumbai’s notable properties, like the Halekai house in Colaba, which he called home until his passing. The details of who will inherit it remain uncertain. Tata also had a seaside bungalow in Alibaug and a house on Juhu Tara Road with his stepbrother Noel Tata, which was currently vacant and possibly up for sale.
A car collection of 20 to 30 prized vehicles, stored at his Colaba and Taj Wellington Mews apartments, could also find a home in a Tata museum in Pune. Meanwhile, awards and memorabilia will be preserved at the Tata Central Archives to honour his contributions.
Who Missed Out?
Interestingly, Tata’s will does not highlight certain family members, such as his stepbrother Noel Tata and stepmother Simone Tata, among the beneficiaries. During his lifetime, Tata did not designate a successor among his relatives, opting instead for trusted individuals in his professional circle.
What do you think of Ratan Tata’s unique approach to his estate? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
