Anticipating a dispute among beneficiaries — mainly close associates, charitable organisations, and family members — over his estate, Ratan Tata had specified that any beneficiary who contests or challenges his will would forfeit their rights and benefits. While the no-contest clause was intended to prevent litigation among beneficiaries and ensure a peaceful settlement, according to lawyers, Tata’s longtime associate Mohini Mohan Dutta has reportedly sought clarification on his share of the late Tata Group chairman's wealth. Tata, former Chairman of Tata Sons and various Tata companies, passed away on October 9, 2024. The executors of Ratan Tata's will have filed a petition with the Bombay High Court to probate the will last week. Who has sought clarification on Ratan Tata's will At the heart of the clarification lies Dutta's entitlement to one-third of Tata's wealth, valued at Rs 3,800 crore, including Tata Sons shares worth Rs 1,684 crore at book value. However, the Tata Sons shares are specifically willed to two foundations established by Ratan Tata, leaving Dutta's claim uncertain. Dutta has only sought clarification, and he has not challenged the provisions of the will, according to legal circles. Former Chief Justice of India, SA Bobde, has been appointed to arbitrate among the beneficiaries by the executors of the will. Tata's will was submitted to the Bombay High Court for probate last week, marking a critical step in confirming the will's veracity. As the court navigates the complexities of Tata's estate, the outcome of Dutta's claim remains uncertain. One thing is clear, however: the fate of Ratan Tata's vast wealth will be decided in the court with far-reaching implications for the Tata group and its beneficiaries. What is the value of Ratan Tata's estate Ratan Tata's estate, valued at approximately Rs 3,800 crore, has been allocated largely to charitable causes, with the Ratan Tata Endowment Foundation and the Ratan Tata Endowment Trust being the primary beneficiaries. These organizations will utilise the funds for philanthropic purposes. In addition to his shares in Tata Sons, Tata's investments included various stocks, financial instruments, and properties. His will, signed on February 23, 2022, comprises four codicils — additions or supplements — with the final one stipulating that unallocated assets will be distributed to the charitable trusts. Who are the beneficiaries of Ratan Tata's will The key beneficiaries of the will are Ratan Tata Endowment Foundation and Ratan Tata Endowment Trust which will get the lion’s share of the estate. His sisters Shireen Jejeebhoy and Deanna Jejeebhoy will receive one-third of the remaining Tata's assets, worth Rs 800 crore. Dutta, a former Tata Group employee and close associate, will receive another one-third of the remaining Tata's assets. Jimmy Naval Tata, Ratan Tata's 82-year-old brother, will inherit a share of Tata's Juhu bungalow, silver articles, and jewellery. Mehli Mistry, a close friend, has been granted Tata's Alibaug property and three guns.
