Industrialist Ratan Tata, who recently passed away, included his German Shepherd, Tito, in his will, requesting “unlimited care” for his cherished pet, as reported by The Times of India.
Tata’s estate is estimated to exceed ₹10,000 crore and also allocates assets for his half-sisters, Shireen and Deanna Jejeebhoy, as well as for household staff and others. His decision to ensure his pet’s welfare is notable, particularly within the context of wealthy individuals in India.
Tito, adopted five or six years ago, shares his name with Ratan Tata’s previous dog. He will be cared for by Tata’s long-time cook, Rajan Shaw.
Additionally, Tata’s will makes provisions for his butler, Subbaiah, with whom he had a relationship spanning three decades. Tata was known to buy designer clothing for both Rajan and Subbaiah after his trips abroad.
Tata’s mentee and executive assistant, Shantanu Naidu, is also mentioned in the will. Tata relinquished his stake in Naidu’s companionship venture, Goodfellows, and waived his education loans, as noted by The Times of India.
Among Ratan Tata’s assets are a 2,000-square-foot beach bungalow in Alibaug, a two-story house on Juhu Tara Road in Mumbai, fixed deposits surpassing ₹350 crore, and a 0.83 percent stake in Tata Sons, the holding company of the $165 billion Tata Group.
In line with tradition, his stake in Tata Sons will be transferred to the Ratan Tata Endowment Foundation (RTEF), a charitable trust.
His will will undergo probate by the Bombay High Court, a process expected to take several months, according to The Times of India.
Known for his philanthropy, love of animals, and sharp business acumen, Ratan Tata passed away on October 9, 2024, at the age of 86.
