Early Life and Background
Charlene Gail “Chandi” Heffner was born in Baltimore on August 26, 1953. Chandi, the oldest of three daughters to banker William J. Heffner and homemaker Barbara “Bunny” Heffner, was raised in a typical American family. As she pursued unorthodox hobbies, her journey deviated from conventional expectations.
Chandi explored belly dance and Hare Krishnaism in her youth. She moved to Hawaii in the 1980s, changing her life. After meeting Doris Duke, a wealthy heiress, who felt Chandi was the reincarnation of her deceased daughter Arden, her life changed in Hawaii. Chandi was formally adopted by Duke in 1988 after this complicated connection. Chandi, an adult adoption, became Duke’s executor, which required extensive travel and tremendous responsibilities.
| Person | Birthdate | Background | Key Life Event |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charlene Gail Heffner | Aug 26 1953 | Eldest daughter, diverse spiritual path | Met Doris Duke and was adopted in 1988 |
Legal Dispute and Settlement
By 1991, Chandi and Doris Duke’s promising relationship began to disintegrate. Chandi’s removal from Doris Duke’s will started a protracted court battle after Duke’s 1993 death. Chandi sued Duke for her inheritance rights, citing a breach of commitments made during her adoption and time as his confidant and executor.
Chandi received $65 million in 1996 after the lawsuit. This deal changed her life and allowed her to focus on philanthropy. While contentious and scrutinised by the media, the settlement showed Chandi’s partnership with Duke and the difficulties of balancing familial and legal obligations with riches and power.
| Year | Event | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 1991 | Removal from Doris Duke’s will | Legal dispute initiated |
| 1993 | Doris Duke’s death | Chandi sues for inheritance rights |
| 1996 | Settlement reached | Chandi awarded $65 million |
Philanthropy and Current Endeavors
After the settlement, Chandi Gail Heffner focused on philanthropy. She supported medical help and animal welfare through the CDHIF foundations in the U.S. and India. She maintained a ranch in Hawaii to rescue horses, donkeys, pigs, and birds. This ranch shows her dedication to helping neglected animals.
Chandi’s strategic philanthropy includes tens of thousands of dollars to India Relief and veterans’ medical research. Her $2 million foundation assets support her humanitarian work. Chandi manages and expands her philanthropy for significant effect.
| Initiative | Focus | Notable Contributions |
|---|---|---|
| CDHIF USA | Medical aid and animal welfare | Annual donations for diverse causes |
| Hawaii Ranch | Rescue of various animals | Provides sanctuary and rehabilitation |
FAQ
What was Chandi Heffner’s Doris Duke relationship?
Doris Duke legally adopted Chandi Heffner in 1988, making her her confidant and executor.
What started Chandi Heffner and Doris Duke’s lawsuit?
After Duke died in 1991, Chandi fought for inheritance rights and won $65 million.
What are the CDHIF foundations?
After her settlement, Chandi Heffner formed CDHIF charities in the U.S. and India providing medical and animal care.
Chandi Heffner’s estimated net worth?
Her deal with Doris Duke’s estate has made Chandi Heffner worth $20 million.
