Indian industrialist and philanthropist Ratan Tata, who passed away earlier this month, has ensured “unlimited” care for his dog, Tito, in his will, according to an NDTV report.
Tito was adopted about six years ago after Tata's last dog passed away. Tata's long-time cook, Rajan Shaw, will take care of him. While leaving money for pets is common in the West, it is still unusual in India.
Ratan Tata, who died at 86 on October 9, was famous for his affection for dogs. He regularly used social media to promote the care of stray dogs and encouraged others to be compassionate toward them. He also dedicated himself to finding homes for abandoned pets and ensuring their safety.
According to a report in The Times of India, Ratan Tata, whose estate is estimated to exceed ₹ 10,000 crore, also designated assets to various beneficiaries, including his foundation, brother Jimmy Tata, half-sisters Shireen and Deanna Jejeebhoy, and household staff members.
Tata's will also has arrangements for his butler, Subbiah, with whom he maintained a close bond for over three decades.
The will also mentions Shantanu Naidu, Tata's executive assistant. According to the report, he has relinquished his stake in Naidu's companionship venture, Goodfellows, while also covering his educational expenses abroad.
Among his assets are a 2,000-square-foot beach bungalow in Alibaug, Maharashtra, a two-storey residence on Mumbai's Juhu Tara Road, and fixed deposits exceeding ₹ 350 crore. He also holds a 0.83 per cent stake in Tata Sons, the parent company of the $165-billion Tata Group.
In line with the Tata Group's legacy of donating shares to charitable trusts, his stake in Tata Sons will be transferred to the Ratan Tata Endowment Foundation (RTEF). Beyond shares in Tata Sons, Ratan Tata's interests in other Tata Group enterprises, including Tata Motors, will also be redirected to RTEF.
The Halekai house in Colaba, where he lived until his death, is owned by Ewart Investments, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tata Sons, which will determine its future. Tata's portfolio of 20-30 luxury vehicles is currently at his Halekai residence and the Taj Wellington Mews service apartments in Colaba. The future of this collection remains under deliberation, with possibilities, including acquisition by the Tata Group for exhibition in its Pune museum or auctioning.
The Juhu property on a quarter-acre plot, overlooking the beach, was inherited by Ratan Tata and his family following the death of his father, Naval Tata. It has reportedly remained closed for over two decades, with discussions on for its potential sale.
The probate process for his will is expected to take several months. It will be examined by the Bombay High Court.
Source: Samakal
Bd-pratidin English/Afia
