Zafar Iqbal
The recent disclosure of Ratan Tata’s will has unveiled an unexpected beneficiary, Mohini Mohan Dutta, a Jamshedpur-based entrepreneur. This revelation has sparked widespread interest and curiosity about Dutta’s identity and his relationship with the late industrialist.
Who is Mohini Mohan Dutta?
Mohini Mohan Dutta is an entrepreneur from Jamshedpur, known for his long-standing association with Ratan Tata. He owned a travel agency named Stallion, which merged with Taj Services, a subsidiary of the Taj Group of Hotels, in 2013. Before this merger, Dutta and his family held an 80% stake in Stallion, while Tata Industries owned the remaining 20%. Dutta also served as a director at TC Travel Services, formerly affiliated with Thomas Cook. citeturn0search3
A Six-Decade-Long Association
Dutta’s connection with Ratan Tata dates back to the early 1960s. They first met in Jamshedpur at the Dealers’ Hostel when Tata was 24 years old. Reflecting on their initial encounter, Dutta mentioned, “He helped me out and really built me up.” This meeting marked the beginning of a relationship that spanned nearly six decades. citeturn0search1
Inclusion in the Will
Ratan Tata’s will, made public after his passing on October 9, 2024, allocated a significant portion of his residual assets to Dutta. Specifically, Dutta is entitled to one-third of the residual estate, which includes bank deposits exceeding ₹350 crore and proceeds from the sale of personal items like paintings and timepieces. The remaining two-thirds are designated for Tata’s half-sisters, Shireen Jejeebhoy and Deanna Jejeebhoy, who also serve as the will’s executors. citeturn0search1
Family Connections
Dutta’s family has maintained ties with the Tata Group. One of his daughters worked with the conglomerate, initially at Taj Hotels until 2015, and later at Tata Trusts until 2024. Dutta was also an invitee to Ratan Tata’s birth anniversary celebrations held at NCPA in Mumbai in December 2024, an event attended by close associates and family members. citeturn0search3
Estate Distribution and Philanthropy
Beyond the allocations to family and close associates, Ratan Tata’s will reflects his commitment to philanthropy. The majority of his wealth has been dedicated to charitable causes. His half-sisters, named as beneficiaries, are also considering donating their portions to charity. Tata established entities like the Ratan Tata Endowment Foundation and the Ratan Tata Endowment Trust to channel a significant portion of his assets toward philanthropic initiatives. citeturn0search7
Specifications Table
| Aspect | Details |
| Name | Mohini Mohan Dutta |
| Profession | Entrepreneur |
| Location | Jamshedpur, India |
| Business Ventures | Owner of Stallion Travel Agency; Director at TC Travel Services |
| Association with Tata | Met Ratan Tata in the early 1960s; maintained a six-decade-long relationship |
| Family Connections | Daughter worked with Taj Hotels and Tata Trusts |
| Inheritance | Entitled to one-third of Ratan Tata’s residual estate, estimated over ₹500 crore |
Conclusion
The unveiling of Ratan Tata’s will has brought Mohini Mohan Dutta into the public eye, highlighting a deep and enduring relationship that spanned decades. Dutta’s significant inheritance underscores the profound personal connections that often exist behind the scenes in the lives of prominent figures.
