Tata group in turmoil as tributes to Ratan Tata mask fierce boardroom feud

Irony was impossible to ignore on October 9. Across India’s leading dailies, full-page advertisements celebrated Ratan Tata as a beacon of humility, vision, and philanthropy, marking the first anniversary of the industrialist’s death. Yet, behind the public homage, the corridors of Tata Trusts—majority shareholder in Tata Sons—were roiled by bitter internal strife.

The tribute read like a paean to Tata’s life of purpose: “A life of purpose. A legacy of impact. His legacy of transforming philanthropy into a force for national progress shall always be our guiding light.” Tata Sons echoed the sentiment, promising: “The lessons you taught us in humility, purpose, and generosity will forever stay with us.”

But while the ads projected unity and reverence, factionalism inside Tata Trusts had deepened, threatening the governance of India’s 156-year-old corporate titan. Reports suggest the crisis escalated to the point where the government stepped in, convening a high-level meeting with Home Minister Amit Shah, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Tata Trusts chief Noel Tata, and Tata Sons chairperson N. Chandrasekaran.

At the heart of the dispute is a power struggle between two factions: one aligned with Noel Tata and another led by Mehli Mistry, tied to the Shapoorji Pallonji family, which owns more than 18% of Tata Sons.

The Mistry-led group — comprising trustees Darius Khambata, Jehangir HC Jehangir, Pramit Jhaveri, and Mehli Mistry — is reportedly pressing for greater oversight over board appointments and corporate governance, moves that have clashed with Noel Tata’s vision.

The feud underscores high stakes: control over the sprawling conglomerate that spans 400 companies and is valued at $180 billion. While the Tata Group has maintained public silence, insiders suggest the next few days could prove pivotal in determining the balance of power within India’s most iconic corporate empire.