Indian billionaire businessman Ratan Tata, who passed away recently at the age of 86, has reportedly bequeathed £91 million to his dog, Tito, in his will.
According to the will provisions, Tito will receive “unlimited” care under the supervision of Tata’s trusted cook, Rajan Shaw, who has long tended to the pet’s needs, reports Indian Today.
The arrangement, rare in India’s corporate world, underscores Tata’s affection for his dog adopted nearly six years ago.
The funds set aside in the will is to ensure Tito’s well-being for the remainder of his life.
The primary recipient of Tata’s fortune, however, will be the Ratan Tata Endowment Foundation, established in 2022 to continue his philanthropic vision.
The foundation is set to inherit Tata’s stakes in various companies, allowing it to further his legacy of social welfare.
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Tata’s son and current chairman of RTEF, Chandrasekaran, is expected to guide the foundation’s activities in alignment with his dad’s ideals.
Family members, including Tata’s brother, Jimmy, and half-sisters, Shireen and Deanna Jejeebhoy, are among the will’s beneficiaries, alongside Tata’s long-time staff, who have been an integral part of his personal life.
The billionaire’s confidant and executive assistant, Shantanu Naidu, will also receive a share, with Tata reportedly forgiving a personal loan and relinquishing his stake in Naidu’s companionship startup, Goodfellows.
Notably, Tata’s extensive car collection, featuring 20–30 luxury vehicles stored at his Colaba home, awaits a decision.
Options under consideration include auctioning the cars or setting up a public display as a tribute to Tata’s life and legacy.
The will, pending probate at the Bombay High Court, is expected to pass through legal confirmation soon, ensuring that Tata’s wishes, from his philanthropic aspirations to Tito’s care, are honoured in full.
Ratan Tata’s contributions to Indian industry and philanthropy are monumental. Having served as the chairman of Tata Group for over two decades, he transformed the conglomerate into a global powerhouse.
His death marks not only the end of an era but also a significant transition in leadership within the Tata Trusts, now headed by his half-brother, Noel Tata.
Reported by Times of India
