Ratan Tata, the renowned industrialist known for his philanthropic contributions and dedication to family, made an intriguing decision regarding some of his most treasured belongings. In his will, he specifically designated three firearms, a pistol, a shotgun, and a rifle, to be passed on to Mehli Mistry, a close friend and trusted business associate. Despite holding one of India’s oldest gun licences, Tata rarely used these weapons.
Significant Personal Connections
The firearms held deep significance in Tata’s life, as they were gifts or inheritances from influential figures. One weapon was reportedly given to him by Sumant Moolgaokar, who was Tata Motors’ chairman before Tata took the helm. Moolgaokar, who had a passion for hunting before wildlife protection laws were implemented, shared a close bond with Tata. The other two firearms were inherited from his father, Naval Tata, and JRD Tata, the long-serving chairman of the Tata Group. These items symbolise Ratan Tata’s profound connection to these pivotal figures in his life.
Transfer of Ownership to Mehli Mistry
Tata’s will stipulated that the firearms be transferred to Mehli Mistry, who also serves as a trustee for Tata Trusts. Following Tata’s recent passing, reports indicated that the firearms were temporarily handed over to the police armoury. To reclaim them, Mistry must obtain a valid firearm licence for purposes like self-defence, sport, or ornamental display. If he already possesses a firearm licence, he can add these weapons to it.
India’s firearm regulations have tightened, limiting the number of licensed weapons an individual can own. It is likely that Mistry will register these firearms as ornamental, which would require authorities to deactivate the firing pins, rendering them incapable of firing.
Who is Mehli Mistry?
Mehli Mistry, a businessman and close aide of Ratan Tata, is the first cousin of the late Cyrus Mistry. He has been a supporter of Tata, particularly during Cyrus Mistry’s removal as chairman of Tata Sons in 2016. Mistry also provided care for Tata in his later years. In 2022, he became a board member of Tata’s two major philanthropic organisations, the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust and the Sir Ratan Tata Trust,which collectively hold approximately 52 percent of the shares in Tata Sons.
Legacy Beyond Firearms
In addition to the firearms, Tata’s will included his beachfront property in Alibaug, a highly desirable area known for its picturesque views. This gesture reflects the depth of Tata’s trust and the long-standing relationship he had with Mistry, which traces back to their shared residence at Bakhtawar, an upscale building in Colaba, Mumbai. After retiring as chairman of Tata Group in 2012, Tata moved to Halekai, a three-story home in the same neighbourhood.
