Mohini Mohan Dutta: The Man Who Inherited ₹500 Crore from Ratan Tata

Mohini Mohan Dutta, an entrepreneur from Jamshedpur, inherited ₹500 crore from Ratan Tata’s will. Their six-decade-long association began when Tata was 24. Dutta’s travel agency merged with a Tata subsidiary, and his daughter worked at Tata Trusts. Tata, known for his philanthropy, left behind an intriguing legacy with this bequest.

The business world was left intrigued when it was revealed that Mohini Mohan Dutta, a relatively lesser-known entrepreneur from Jamshedpur, was named in Ratan Tata’s will, inheriting a staggering ₹500 crore. The revelation has sparked curiosity about Dutta’s association with the late industrialist.

Dutta, a businessman with deep connections to the Tata Group, owned a travel agency called Stallion, which merged with Taj Services, a Tata Group subsidiary, in 2013. He and his family held an 80% stake in the company, while the remaining shares were owned by the Tatas. Additionally, Dutta served as a director at TC Travel Services, formerly linked to Thomas Cook.

Reports suggest that Dutta and Tata shared a long-standing bond, spanning over six decades. The two reportedly met at the Dealers’ Hostel in Jamshedpur when Tata was just 24. Dutta had often spoken about how Tata played a key role in shaping his career, stating, “He built me up.”

Dutta’s family ties with the Tatas extend beyond business. One of his daughters worked at Tata Trusts for nine years, after previously being employed at Taj Hotels.

Ratan Tata, who passed away in October 2024 at the age of 86, was known for his philanthropy. Despite an estimated net worth of ₹8,000 crore, he donated much of his fortune to charity. His decision to bequeath a large sum to Dutta remains a subject of speculation, adding another chapter to his legacy of generosity.