Ratan Tata’s Incredible ₹3.5 Crore Gift: A Generous Farewell That Stunned Everyone!
Ratan Tata’s will reflected his deep gratitude towards those who worked closely with him, setting aside nearly ₹3.5 crore for his household and office staff. He ensured financial security for his long-time employees, distributing funds based on years of service and forgiving substantial loans. His cook, butler, and secretary received significant sums, while drivers, peons, and assistants were also included in his generosity. Even part-time helpers and car cleaners were acknowledged with financial support.
Tata waived a ₹1-crore loan given to his executive assistant for MBA studies and forgave another ₹23.7-lakh loan extended to a neighbor. He also left ₹12 lakh for the care of his beloved German Shepherd, Tito. His two half-sisters inherited a portion of his residual estate, and his Alibaug bungalow was passed to a close friend. Even in passing, Ratan Tata’s legacy of kindness and generosity remained as impactful as his contributions to business.
Ratan Tata’s Incredible ₹3.5 Crore Gift: A Generous Farewell That Stunned Everyone!
The passing of Ratan Tata in October 2024 marked the end of an era, but his legacy of kindness and gratitude lives on through his meticulously crafted will. Reflecting his lifelong commitment to humility and generosity, the document revealed thoughtful provisions for those who stood by him—loyal staff members, cherished friends, and even his beloved pet.
Care for Loyal Staff
Tata allocated nearly ₹3.5 crore to honor the dedication of his household and office employees. Domestic staff who had served him for over seven years collectively received ₹15 lakh, distributed based on their tenure. Part-time helpers and car cleaners were each granted ₹1 lakh. However, it was his personalized gestures that stood out. His longtime cook, Rajan Shaw, was gifted over ₹1 crore, which included a ₹51 lakh loan waiver. Butler Subbaiah Konar received ₹66 lakh, along with ₹36 lakh in debt forgiveness, while his secretary, Delnaz Gilder, was bequeathed ₹10 lakh.
Shantanu Naidu, Tata’s executive assistant, had his ₹1 crore education loan for an MBA at Cornell University forgiven—an act that reflected Tata’s deep belief in nurturing potential. Similarly, his driver, Raju Leon, inherited ₹1.5 lakh and had an ₹18 lakh loan waived. Other beneficiaries included consultant Hoshi D. Malesara, who received ₹5 lakh, Alibaug bungalow caretaker Devendar Katamollu, who was given ₹2 lakh, and peons Gopal Singh and Pandurang Gurav, who each received ₹50,000. Even helper Sarfaraz Deshmukh had his ₹2 lakh debt written off.
A Loving Gesture for a Furry Companion
Tata’s affection extended beyond people. His German Shepherd, Tito, was ensured a lifetime of care through a ₹12 lakh trust, disbursed in quarterly installments of ₹30,000. This thoughtful act reflected his attention to every relationship, no matter how small.
Support Beyond the Workplace
Tata’s generosity extended beyond his immediate circle. He forgave a ₹23.7 lakh loan given to his neighbor, Jake Malite, for an MBA at Warwick Business School in the UK. Malite, now based in Switzerland, previously worked at aerospace giant Pratt & Whitney. This gesture underscored Tata’s willingness to uplift those around him, even outside his professional or personal sphere.
Estate Distribution: Honoring Trust and Relationships
The will also outlined the distribution of Tata’s estate. Mohini Dutta, a former Taj Hotels employee, inherited one-third of his residual assets (excluding shares and property). His Seychelles property, valued at ₹85 lakh, was bequeathed to RNT Associates, a Singapore-based fund managed by close associates. His two half-sisters, Shireen and Deanna Jejeebhoy, each received a third of his remaining estate.
The Alibaug bungalow, a cherished retreat, was left to his friend Mehli Mistry. Trustees and executors, including Tata Trusts’ Darius Khambata, were each granted ₹5 lakh as a token of appreciation for their role in executing his will and upholding his legacy.
A Modest Farewell
In a final nod to his unassuming nature, Tata set aside just ₹2,500 for his funeral—a simple farewell for a man who reshaped industries yet remained grounded in humility.
A Legacy of Empathy
Ratan Tata’s will was not just a financial document; it was a reflection of his values. By prioritizing those who contributed to his daily life, supporting education, and ensuring care for his pet, he demonstrated that true wealth lies in uplifting others. His story continues to inspire, reminding the world that generosity extends far beyond material wealth, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives.
Through these acts, Tata’s spirit endures—a beacon of compassion, loyalty, and quiet dignity. His will serves as the final chapter in a life dedicated not only to business excellence but to the profound impact of human kindness.