Who is Mohini Mohan Dutta? That’s the question that everyone is asking after late Ratan Tata’s will was unsealed. The recent revelation of Ratan Tata‘s will has caused considerable surprise. Amongst the anticipated recipients and charitable allocations, the inclusion of Mohini Mohan Dutta, a Jamshedpur-based entrepreneur, has drawn significant attention.
Sources told TOI that Mohini Mohan Dutta, a former Tata group employee with close ties to the late industrialist, is seeking a substantial settlement, which differs from the executors’ assessments.
According to Ratan Tata’s will, Dutta, aged 74, is entitled to one-third of the residual estate, including bank deposits over Rs 350 crore and proceeds from selling personal items like paintings and timepieces. The remaining two-thirds go to Ratan Tata’s half-sisters, Shireen Jejeebhoy and Deanna Jejeebhoy, who are also the will’s executors following his death in October 2024. The industrialist’s main assets, including company shares, have been allocated to his two foundations.
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Sources reveal that whilst Dutta acknowledges his one-third share, he anticipates a bequest worth approximately Rs 650 crore, causing concern among Tata stakeholders. The estate’s official valuation remains incomplete, but sources suggest Dutta’s portion is unlikely to reach Rs 650 crore. The will awaits probate in Bombay High Court.
Who is Mohini Mohan Dutta?
Mohini Mohan Dutta’s professional journey began with the Taj Group, followed by establishing Stallion Travel Agency. In 2013, this venture merged with Taj Services, a Taj Group of Hotels division. The ownership structure comprised an 80% stake held by them, with Tata Industries retaining the remainder.
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Following the merger with Taj’s travel division, the business was acquired by Tata Capital and later sold to Thomas Cook (India). Currently operating as TC Travel Services, Dutta maintains his position as director. Additionally, he holds investments in various Tata Group enterprises, including shares in the upcoming Tata Capital public listing.
Dutta first met Ratan Tata in Jamshedpur at the Dealers’ Hostel, according to an ET report. Their initial encounter occurred in the early 1960s when Ratan Tata was aged 24, still establishing himself within the Tata organisation. This chance meeting proved to be a pivotal moment in Dutta’s life journey.
“We first met in Jamshedpur at the Dealers’ Hostel when Ratan Tata was 24. He helped me out and really built me up,” Dutta shared at Ratan Tata’s funeral in October 2024, as reported by ToI.
Their initial connection developed into a lasting association spanning several decades.
Dutta shared a unique bond with the industrialist, serving as both a business associate and a close confidant. ToI reported that Dutta considered himself as Ratan Tata’s adopted son. However, official documents, including the will and codicil, confirm that Ratan Tata never married or formally adopted anyone.
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The strong ties between Dutta and the Tata family are evident. His daughter’s professional journey included nearly ten years at Tata Trusts, following her initial role at Taj Hotels. Dutta’s presence at Ratan Tata’s birth anniversary celebration at Mumbai’s NCPA in December 2024 further emphasises their connection.
Until recently, Dutta’s significant role in Ratan Tata’s life remained largely unknown to those outside the immediate Tata circle.
The disclosure of Dutta’s inheritance has generated interest and some controversy, particularly as Ratan Tata had allocated most of his wealth to charitable causes. His half-sisters, who are the only other notable named beneficiaries, have expressed their intention to donate their portions to charity.
The presence of Dutta’s name in Ratan Tata’s will has sparked curiosity, even among close Tata associates. Questions have arisen about his identity, his significance in Ratan Tata’s life, and the circumstances that led to his substantial inheritance from one of India’s most respected business leaders.
Tata stakeholders note that whilst family members, including half-brother Noel Tata and his children, are not mentioned in the will, and brother Jimmy Tata receives property worth Rs 50 crore, an outsider is requesting a larger settlement. Additional executors include Tata Trusts trustees Darius Khambata and Mehli Mistry, alongside the half-sisters.
