Shantanu Naidu, Ratan Tata's long associate mentioned in his Rs 10,000 crore will

In a sign of his close professional and personal bond, Shantanu Naidu , Ratan Tata ’s trusted associate and founder of the elderly care start-up ' The Goodfellows ', has been mentioned in the late industrialist’s Rs 10,000-crore will. Naidu’s close relationship with Tata over the years has led to meaningful support in the will, reflecting Tata’s commitment to his mentee’s future.

A report in The Times of India states that Ratan Tata ensured Naidu was well-provided for, giving up his stake in 'The Goodfellows' to demonstrate his trust in Naidu’s vision and covering his overseas education expenses.

Tata’s will includes provisions for his assets—such as his 2,000-square-foot beach bungalow in Alibaug, his two-storey residence on Mumbai's Juhu Tara Road, and over Rs 350 crore in fixed deposits, alongside a 0.83% stake in Tata Sons , which will be transferred to the Ratan Tata Endowment Foundation .

A special inclusion in the will was for Tata’s dog, Tito , for whom he arranged “unlimited care” to be provided by his long-time cook, Rajan Shaw. Tata also allotted shares to his butler, Subbiah.

Naidu, who founded 'The Goodfellows', an organisation devoted to supporting elderly people through companionship, developed a close rapport with Tata over the years. As Tata's assistant and confidant, Naidu was known to embody Tata’s values and vision.

Ratan Tata passed away on October 9, 2024, at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital at the age of 86.