What’s In Ratan Tata’s Will About Naidu & pet dog Tito

Ratan Tata, an epitome of philanthropy, humility, and leadership, passed away at the age of 86 on October 9 at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and compassion.

In his Rs 10,000 crore will, he included provisions for his family, some loyal staffers, charities and even his beloved pet Tito.

The Rata Tata Endowment Foundation (RTEF) is set to be the main recipient of Tata’s estate. The foundation also has a stake in Tata Digital, which operates Tata Neu, a major digital platform.

Displaying his true love for his close professional and personal bonding with Shantanu Naidu, Ratan Tata’s trusted associate and founder of elderly care start-up ‘The Goodfellows’, Tata made a mention of the former in his will. He will also receive a share of Tata’s inheritance. It is learnt that Tata had forgiven a personal loan Naidu took for his education. Tata also relinquished his stake in Naidu’s startup Goodfellows.

Tata’s will also includes allocations for his close family members. His brother, Jimmy Tata, and his half-sisters, Shireen and Deanna Jejeebhoy, are among the beneficiaries. Tata’s trusted household staff, including his cook, Rajan Shaw, and his butler, Subbiah, who have served him for many years, also found place in the will.

In an unusual move, Ratan Tata also made special provision for his German shepherd, Tito. Adopted 5-6 years ago, the dog is set to receive “unlimited” care.

Rajan Shaw, who takes care after Tito, will continue to do so, with resources ensured by Tata’s will for Tito’s lifelong wellbeing.

His personal collection of luxury cars, including 20-30 vehicles stored at his Colaba home and the Taj Wellington Mews, is yet to be assigned. It is being contemplated that they might be put up for auction or putting them on public display to honour his legacy.

Decisions are yet to be taken about Tata’s beachfront bungalow in Alibaug and his residence on Juhu Tara Road in Mumbai.

His will is awaiting probate at the Bombay High Court and the legal process will confirm the validity of the will.