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Shantanu Naidu, Ratan Tata's mentee and executive assistant, has been named in the late industrialist's will. Reflecting Tata's close relationships and generous spirit, the will also includes his beloved German Shepherd, Tito, as an unusual beneficiary.
Ratan Tata, who passed away earlier this month at 86, made a special request in his will for “unlimited care” for his beloved dog, Tito, highlighting Tata's deep bond with his pet. Tito will now be looked after by Tata's cook, Rajesh Shaw.
Beyond the love for his pet, Ratan Tata’s estate, valued at over ₹10,000 crore, will benefit his half-sisters, Shireen and Deanna Jejeebhoy, along with house staff and close associates. Notably, Tata’s longtime butler, Subbaiah, who had been with him for over thirty years, is also included in the will. Tata was known for his generosity, often bringing designer clothes for Rajan and Subbaiah from his travels abroad.
Shantanu Naidu’s name in Ratan Tata's will shows the special bond they shared. The will reveals that Tata gave his stake in Naidu’s companionship company, Goodfellows, and also waived Naidu’s education loans, highlighting their close bond.
Ratan Tata's impressive assets include a 2,000-square-foot beach bungalow in Alibaug, a two-storey house on Juhu Tara Road in Mumbai, and fixed deposits over ₹350 crore. He also held a 0.83% stake in Tata Sons, the $165 billion Tata Group's holding company. Following tradition, his stake in Tata Sons will be transferred to the Ratan Tata Endowment Foundation (RTEF), a charitable trust dedicated to supporting various philanthropic initiatives.
As his will undergoes probate by the Bombay High Court—a process likely to take several months—Ratan Tata's legacy as a philanthropist, animal lover, and visionary business leader will continue to inspire many.