The recently opened will of the late business tycoon Ratan Tata has sparked curiosity and speculation, as it names a mystery beneficiary, Mohini Mohan Dutta, alongside Tata’s half-sisters. The revelation has surprised Tata’s family and inner circle, raising questions about Dutta’s identity and his relationship with the late industrialist.
Tata’s Will and Dutta’s Entitlement
Ratan Tata, the former chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, passed away at the age of 86 in Mumbai. His will grants one-third of his residual estate to Dutta, a Jamshedpur-based entrepreneur and former Tata Group employee. The assets include bank deposits exceeding Rs 350 crore and proceeds from the sale of personal belongings such as paintings and timepieces.
The remaining two-thirds of the estate have been allocated to Tata’s half-sisters, Shireen Jejeebhoy and Deanna Jejeebhoy, who are also the executors of the will. However, Dutta is reportedly seeking a larger settlement, differing from the executors’ assessment, and expects a bequest worth Rs 500 crore, raising concerns among Tata stakeholders.
Who is Mohini Mohan Dutta?
Dutta, a former Tata Group employee, had close ties with Ratan Tata. He started his career with the Taj Group before establishing Stallion Travel Agency, which was later merged with Taj Services, part of the Taj Group of Hotels, in 2013. Dutta and his family held an 80% stake in Stallion, with the remaining portion owned by Tata Industries. His daughter also had a long-standing association with the Tata Group, working at Taj Hotels until 2015 before joining Tata Trusts, where she remained until 2024.
A Six-Decade-Long Bond with Tata
Dutta and Tata’s association dates back 60 years, when they first met in Jamshedpur at the Dealers’ Hostel. Recalling their early days, Dutta once stated, “He helped me out and built me up.” Their long-standing relationship was further highlighted when Dutta was invited to celebrate Tata’s birth anniversary in December 2024.
Dutta’s presence at Tata’s funeral in October also emphasized their bond. His deep-rooted ties with the business magnate have now taken center stage, with his name in Tata’s will becoming a matter of intense discussion.
Concerns Among Tata Stakeholders
The disclosure has raised eyebrows within the Tata family, especially since key members, including Noel Tata and his children, have been excluded from the will. While the reason behind their exclusion remains unknown, Dutta’s substantial inheritance has become a topic of intrigue and debate.
As discussions around Ratan Tata’s will continue, the spotlight remains on Mohini Mohan Dutta, the man who shared both a personal and professional bond with one of India’s most influential business leaders.