Ratan Tata’s will has taken many by surprise, as he left much of his wealth to someone outside his known circle. According to The Economic Times, the business icon, who passed away on October 9, 2024, set aside ₹500 crore for Mohini Mohan Dutta, a name unfamiliar to his family and close associates.

However, before the inheritance is passed on, it must go through legal formalities and be certified by the High Court, a process that could take at least six months.

About Mohini Mohan Dutta

Mohini Mohan Dutta is a Jamshedpur-based entrepreneur with a deep, decades-long connection to the Tata Group. He co-owned Stallion, a travel agency that later merged with Taj Services, a division of the Taj Group of Hotels, in 2013. Before the merger, Dutta and his family held an 80% stake in Stallion, while Tata Industries owned the remaining 20%.

His bond with Ratan Tata dates back to the early 1960s when they first met at the Dealers' Hostel in Jamshedpur. Over the years, their professional relationship evolved into a lifelong friendship. Dutta has often spoken about how Tata played a significant role in shaping his career, saying, "He helped me out and built me up."

Recently, Dutta’s name made headlines after it was disclosed that Ratan Tata named him as a key beneficiary in his will. As per reports, Dutta is set to receive one-third of Tata’s residual estate, which includes substantial bank deposits and proceeds from personal asset sales. The remaining two-thirds will go to Tata’s half-sisters, Shireen and Deanna Jejeebhoy.

Dutta’s ties with the Tatafamily extend beyond business, his daughter worked at Taj Hotels before joining Tata Trusts, where she spent nearly a decade. Despite the newfound public attention, he has always maintained a low profile, with his association with Ratan Tata known primarily within close circles.

Ratan Tata’s will: How his wealth was divided

Ratan Tata’s will was made public about two weeks after his passing. He divided his wealth among his brother, half-sisters, household staff, and his executive assistant, Shantanu Naidu. He also made sure his pet dog, Tito, would receive lifelong care.

His stake in Tata Sons was given to the Ratan Tata Endowment Trust. His assets included a beach bungalow in Alibaug, a two-storey house in Juhu, and fixed deposits worth over ₹350 crore.