Ratan Tata leaves £91 million fortune to his dog in Mumbai

In October 2024, Ratan Tata, a prominent Indian industrialist and former chairman of Tata Group, passed away at the age of 86 in Mumbai. In his will, he made a surprising decision by bequeathing a substantial portion of his approximately £91 million estate to his German shepherd, Tito, highlighting his deep affection for animals. Tata's siblings will inherit only a small part of his estate, which diverges from customary practices in India where inheritances typically remain within families. This unusual choice included provisions for Tito's 'unlimited care.' His close aide remarked that Tata’s actions were a gesture of gratitude for the joy provided by his pets and staff. This legacy illustrates Tata's deep commitment to animals, demonstrated through past initiatives taking care of strays. Moreover, tributes poured in following his passing, recognizing his influential role in shaping the Indian business landscape. Under his leadership, Tata Group expanded globally, acquiring major brands such as Jaguar and Land Rover and fostering a culture of philanthropy and responsibility. His death marks the end of an era for a leader who transformed an industrial giant into a global entity while ensuring kindness towards animals within and outside the workplace.