The disclosure of Ratan Tata’s will has taken many by
surprise, as a significant portion of his residual wealth—amounting to over
₹500 crore—has been allocated to an individual whose connection to him was
largely unknown, according to a report by The Economic Times.
The beneficiary, Mohini Mohan Dutta, is a businessman from
Jamshedpur with expertise in the travel industry. While Dutta’s relationship
with Tata was not widely publicized, sources claim that he had been a trusted
confidant for several years.
Dutta’s family formerly owned Stallion, a travel agency that
merged with Taj Services—an extension of the Taj Group of Hotels—in 2013.
Before this merger, his family controlled 80% of the company, while Tata
Industries held the remaining stake. He also previously held a director’s
position at TC Travel Services, a former Thomas Cook subsidiary.
Insiders at Tata Group indicate that Dutta often mentioned
his close association with the Tata family. He had also spoken publicly about
his relationship with Ratan Tata during the latter’s funeral in October 2024,
recalling their first meeting in Jamshedpur when Tata was 24. "He
supported me and played a crucial role in my growth," Dutta had shared
with the media, emphasizing their six-decade-long friendship.
Dutta was reportedly invited to Ratan Tata’s birth
anniversary celebration at Mumbai’s NCPA in December 2024, an event attended by
close family members and associates.
Despite this unexpected bequest, the majority of Tata’s
wealth has been dedicated to philanthropic efforts, reflecting his lifelong
commitment to social causes. His half-sisters, who were also named in the will,
are reportedly considering donating their share to charity as well.
To ensure his philanthropic vision continues, Ratan Tata had
previously established the Ratan Tata Endowment Foundation and the Ratan
Tata Endowment Trust, both aimed at supporting charitable initiatives,
according to the ET report.
Ratan Tata, widely regarded as one of India’s most
influential business leaders, passed away in October 2024 at the age of 86. The
Tata Group, a global conglomerate, generates annual revenues exceeding $100
billion.