Late industrialist Ratan Tata’s will mentions Shantanu Naidu along with Siblings, Pet and Butler. The Rs 10,000-crore will includes significant assets, charitable bequests, and unique provisions for his close ones. The inclusion of Shantanu Naidu’s name in the will reflects Ratan Tata’s unique relationship with him as he was his long-time associate and executive assistant. Naidu, who began his career in a Tata Group company and later became closely involved with Tata’s private office, has played a significant role in Tata’s recent years, marked by mutual respect and shared values, especially their love for animals.
According to reports, Tata has relinquished his stake in Naidu’s companionship venture, Goodfellows, a subscription-based service for senior citizens established in 2022. Ratan Tata’s will has reportedly ensured financial freedom for Shantanu Naidu by forgiving a personal loan that Naidu took for his education. These gestures must mean a lot to Shantanu Naidu who has been a long time friend of Ratan Tata. Let us tell you that after returning from his studies in the United States, Naidu joined Tata’s personal office, the Office of RNT, further cementing their professional and personal ties. Despite poor health, Tata made sure to attend Goodfellows’ launch, underlining his deep commitment to Naidu’s vision.
Who will inherit what?
Tata’s will includes his 0.83% stake in Tata Sons, the holding company for the $165-billion Tata Group. This stake will be transferred to the Ratan Tata Endowment Foundation (RTEF), continuing Tata’s legacy of philanthropy. Moreover, properties that are under his name like the 2,000-square-foot bungalow in Alibaug, known for its scenic beachfront location, and a two-storey house on Mumbai’s Juhu Tara Road, which has been closed for over 20 years may be sold. These properties were inherited by him after his father Naval Tata passed away.
A significant portion of Tata’s wealth also lies in fixed deposits, reported to exceed ₹350 crore. Apart from his real estate assets, Tata’s collection of 20-30 luxury cars, including rare and valuable models, are kept at the Halekai residence and the Taj Wellington Mews service apartments in Colaba. Rumours suggest that the collection will either be acquisition by the Tata Group or put it up for auction at a museum in Pune.
Interestingly, Tata’s will also makes provisions for Tito, his beloved pet dog, ensuring that the animal will receive care and attention following Tata’s passing. Right now, his cook is taking care of Tito. Other than that he made provisions in his will for his foundation, his brother Jimmy Tata, his two half-sisters Shireen Jejeebhoy and Deanna Jejeebhoy and other domestic staff members.