The recently opened will of the late industrialist Ratan Tata has revealed an unexpected twist, with a substantial portion of his residual estate—estimated at over ₹500 crore—bequeathed to Mohini Mohan Dutta, a relatively lesser-known figure in public circles.
Dutta, an entrepreneur originally from Jamshedpur, had a decades-long association with Tata, though their bond was known only to a select few, according to reports.
A veteran in the travel industry, Dutta and his family owned Stallion, a travel agency that merged with Taj Services under the Taj Group of Hotels in 2013.
Before the merger, Dutta’s family controlled an 80 per cent stake in Stallion, with Tata Industries holding the remainder.
He also served as a director at TC Travel Services, previously affiliated with Thomas Cook, the report stated.
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A long-standing association
Insiders familiar with the Tata Group revealed that Dutta often spoke of his close ties with the Tata family.
At Ratan Tata’s funeral in October 2024, Dutta described their enduring bond, saying, "We first met in Jamshedpur at the Dealers' Hostel when he was 24. He helped me out and really built me up."
Dutta was among a select few invited to Ratan Tata's birth anniversary celebrations at the NCPA in Mumbai in December 2024, an exclusive event attended by close associates and family members.
A legacy of philanthropy
True to his lifelong commitment to charitable causes, the bulk of Ratan Tata’s wealth has been earmarked for philanthropic initiatives.
His half-sisters, named as beneficiaries in the will, are reportedly considering donating their share to charity as well.
Tata had established the Ratan Tata Endowment Foundation and the Ratan Tata Endowment Trust to direct a significant portion of his assets toward charitable ventures, the report noted.
One of India’s most globally recognised business icons, Ratan Tata passed away in October 2024 at the age of 86.
The Tata Group, a cornerstone of India’s corporate landscape, generates annual revenues exceeding $100 billion.
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