Category Archives: Amazing Feats

Maulana Rabey was multi-faceted person–teacher, researcher, linguist, writer and orator

Lucknow, UTTAR PRADESH :

Maulana S M Rabey Hasani Nadwi, Rector Nadwatul Ulama and President All India Muslim Personal Law Board, was a distinguished scholar of Islam. He was a man of literature and composition.

He passed away on April 13 in Lucknow.

Scion of an illustrious Syed family that produced a host of scholars, thinkers and spiritual preceptors like Shah Alamullah Hasani (d.1685),  Syed Ahmad Shaheed (d.1831), Hakeem Syed Abdul Hai Hasani (1923), Dr Syed Abdul Ali Hasani (d.1961 ), Syed Muhammad Al- Hasani (1979), Syed Maulana Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi (d.1999), Maulana S M Wazeh Rasheed Nadwi (d.2019) and so on.

Almighty Allah bestowed upon Maulana Rabey extraordinary knowledge and wisdom. His multifaceted genius can be discussed in various ways. Maulana Rabey was a great Islamic scholar, a thinker, an  educationist, a historian, a litterateur, a  theologian, a teacher, a reformer, an orator, a journalist, a jurist, a writer, a philanthropist, a biographer of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), a spokesman of the poor and the like.

He was a true replica of his predecessor Maulana S Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi. He was Maulana Ali Miyan’s nephew and a confidante for several decades.

Maulana Dr Abdullah Abbas Nadwi writes, “Sheikh Rabey was with Sheikh Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi at all times, whether at home or during a journey. He represented Sheikh Nadwi on many occasions and spoke on his behalf. If Sheikh Nadwi accepted any responsibility, it was Sheikh Rabey who was to implement it.

He further says, “Maulana Rabey’s looks had become like that of Sheikh Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi.”

Education qualifications

Maulana Rabey was born in 1929 at Takiya Kalan, Raebareli, U.P. He had his elementary education at home and got higher education at Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama, Lucknow. Eminent personalities like Maulana S Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi, Maulana Mohammad Shah Haleem Ata, Maulana Mufti Mohammad Saeed, Maulana Syed Hameeduddin, Maulana Oais Nagrami were his teachers. After completing education at Nadwatul Ulama, he went to Deoband and became a student of Maulana Syed Husain Ahmad Madani and other distinguished Ulama there.

He also spent about one year in Hijaz (Western Saudi Arabia) where he gained considerable benefits from prominent scholars.

Career heights

Maulana Nadwi writes, “My grandfather, Syed Khaliluddin Ahmad Hasani (nephew of Syed Shah Ziaun Nabi Hasani) who was a prominent landlord had made special arrangement for my father to acquire necessary skills to take care of his personal and household needs. Thus, my father’s responsibilities were limited to taking care of matters pertaining to land and agriculture. He made our maternal uncles (Sheikh Nadwi and his older brother Dr Syed Abdul Ali Hasani) responsible for our education and upbringing.”

He derived considerable benefit and inspiration from them. In a true sense, Dr Abdul Ali planted the seed of worthiness in him and Maulana Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi nurtured it.

Undoubtedly, he was a man of noble qualities. He was a paragon of morality. He never showed egotism, pride, and haughtiness. He had a throbbing heart for the entire nation. He met everyone cheerfully.

He was kindhearted and righteous person. He possessed sturdy intellect and common sense.

The most striking aspects of his life were his istighna (expecting nothing from anyone except Allah) sincerity, simplicity, and piety. He meticulously followed Sunnah (traditions of the Prophet). Like his predecessor Maulana S Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi, he led a pious and exemplary life. He was a true descendant of salaf saliheen (pious lineage).

Teacher par excellence

Maulana S M Rabey Hasani Nadwi was appointed as  teacher in 1949. He was a dedicated to his profession. He was an embodiment of all sublime qualities and virtues necessary for a good teacher. His method of teaching was unprecedented.

Teaching was his sword that he wielded so effectively that very few people could match. Scores of students quenched their thirst for knowledge from him.

He left a galaxy of students behind who impart education in their respective areas. No doubt, it is an everlasting tribute to him. His myriad contributions in the field of education will always be remembered.

Rector of Nadwatul Ulama

After the demise of Maulana S Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi, Maulana Rabey was elected Rector of Nadwatul Ulama in 2000. Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama made great strides in various fields of education under his rectorship. Besides various hostels, separate building for higher classes,  grand halls, extension of central Mosque and Matbakh (Mess) have also  been constructed under  his rectorship. He dedicated his entire life to the cause of Nadwatul Ulama’s growth. He played a constructive role in Nadwa’s progress and development. His remarkable contributions and achievements in the cause of Nadwatul Ulama will always be remembered.

President of Muslim Personal Law Board

After passing away of Maulana Qazi Mujahidul Islam Qasmi, Maulana Rabey was elected the fourth President of the board on June 22, 2002. For two decades, Maulana Rabey held the post. He played a pivotal role in tackling key issues faced by the Board. Accordingly, scores of important issues have been solved during his tenure.

Truly speaking, he was an erudite scholar. The comprehensive knowledge and intellectual brilliance of Maulana Rabey had been acknowledged by his contemporaries. Because of his vast knowledge in all the religious and secular sciences, he had been entrusted with many important positions and offices, and was also conferred several prestigious awards, including President Award for his outstanding service in the arena of Arabic language and literature.

Positions held the Maulana

  1. Rector, Nadwatul Ulama, Lucknow 
  2. President, All India Muslim Personal Law Board
  3. President, World Forum of Islamic Literature
  4. Member of Makkah-based Muslim World League
  5. Executive Member of Darul Uloom Deoband
  6. Patron, Islamic Fiqh Academy, New Delhi
  7. President ,Academy of Islamic Research and Publication, Lucknow
  8. Patron, Maulana Azad Memorial Academy, Lucknow
  9. Member Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies (UK)

The awards

President Award in 1982 and; Shah Waliullah Award by Institute of Objective  Studies, New Delhi in 2015.

His writings

He was a prolific writer. He authored more than four dozen books in Arabic and Urdu. His literary work is multidimensional. His creative work is complete in itself. He wrote almost in every style in prose. His various books are included in the syllabus of different institutions including Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama, Lucknow. Some of his major publications are as under:

He was also an accomplished journalist. Because of his vast knowledge in all religious sciences, including jurisprudence, and a profound knowledge of different languages like Urdu, Arabic, English, Persian and the likes, he forthrightly shed light on every subject at length. Hundreds of articles are to his credit. He was a patron of five magazines published from Nadwatul Ulama.

The passing away of Maulana Rabey Nadwi is also a personal loss to me. Like his younger brother Maulana S.M.Wazeh Rasheed Nadwi(1933-2019), he had also been a great inspiration to me. My first book, “The Plain Truth” had been released by him in 2008. He also gave Rs.5,000 to me as reward. I have been lucky enough that my latest book, “Islam and Education” was also released by him on March 21, 2023 at Guest House of Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama.

The most surprising event was his last journey. His funeral prayer was led twice. The first funeral prayer was led by Dr Saeedur Rahman Azami Nadwi at Nadwa and the second was led by Maulana S Bilal Abdul Hai Hasani Nadwi at Takia Kalan. He was laid to rest in his ancestral graveyard at Takia Kalan, Rai Bareli.

Dr Obaidur Rahman Nadwi is a faculty member of Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama

source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> Featured Articles / by Dr Obaidur Rahman Nadwi / May 13th, 2023

SIPMA holds General Body Meeting, elects new leadership

Mysuru, KARNATAKA :

Bengaluru:

The Southern India Plywood Manufacturers’ Association (SIPMA) held its General Body Meeting on February 22, 2025, bringing together industry leaders and experts to discuss key issues affecting the plywood sector.

The meeting, held in Bangalore, focused on crucial matters such as the QCO order, sustainability initiatives, emission norms, and industry standards. Discussions also included labour welfare and modernization efforts aimed at improving productivity in the sector.

A major highlight of the meeting was the election of new office bearers. Dr. Prashant MA was elected as the President of SIPMA. He is currently the Director of AK Apple Ply, a company founded by the late M. Ahmed in 1984. Originally from Kochi, Dr. Prashant has been associated with AK Apple Ply for over three decades, having joined the company in the 1990s. He gained valuable experience under the mentorship of M. Ahmed and played a key role in expanding the company’s operations. Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Prashant acknowledged the vision of his late mentor and said he was honored to take on the responsibility of leading SIPMA to serve the plywood industry.

Alongside Dr. Prashant, Jitendra R Patel, Managing Director of Raaj Wood Products in Nelamangala, was elected as Vice President, and K. Hariraya Kamath from Karnataka Plywood in Sullia, Karnataka, was appointed as Secretary.

During the event, SIPMA also recognized the contributions of industry veteran Siraj Bhai of Veneer Mills by presenting him with the Lifetime Achievement Award. A member of SIPMA since 1980, he has dedicated his career to the growth of the plywood sector and has been actively involved in its development.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karnataka / by Vartha Bharati / February 25th, 2025

‘Expertise’ CEO Muhammad Ashif Karnire awarded ‘Global Beary of Business Youth Icon’ award

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA / SAUDI ARABIA :

Dubai: 

Muhammad Ashif Karnire, CEO of Saudi Arabia-based Expertise Contracting Company Limited, was honoured with the prestigious ‘Global Beary of Business Youth Icon’ award at the Beary Mela 2025. The event was held on Sunday at the Etisalat Academy Grounds under the auspices of the Bearys Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BCCI), UAE.

Karnataka Assembly Speaker UT Khader graced the event as the Chief Guest.

Karnataka Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa, Indian Ambassador to Dubai Satish Kumar Sivan, State Hajj Minister Rahim Khan, Bengaluru Shanthi Nagar MLA NA Haris. Vice-President of the Government’s Non-Resident Indian Directorate Dr. Aarti Krishna, social worker Dr. Ronald Colaco, Thumbay Group founder president Dr. Thumbay Moideen, renowned non-resident Indian businessman and CEO of Al Muzain, Saudi Arabia, Zakaria Jokatte, Expertise Contracting Limited Director K.S. Sheikh Karnire, UAE Bearys Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BCCI) UAE Unit President Hidayat Addoor and others were present on the occasion.

The award recognized Muhammad Ashif Karnire’s exceptional contributions to the industry and his outstanding achievements. Karnire, who heads the prestigious Expertise company in Jubail, Saudi Arabia, had previously been honoured in 2021 by Dr. Ausaf Saeed, the Indian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, for his community services and professional excellence.

Founded in 2008, Expertise is a leading industrial services provider in Saudi Arabia, employing over 15,000 professionals and operating more than 7,500 pieces of equipment. The company serves a wide range of industries, including petrochemicals, oil and gas, fertilizers, steel, cement, water treatment, and power generation. Headquartered in Jubail Industrial City, Expertise has established a strong presence with branches across Saudi Arabia.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / February 14th, 2025

Dr. Thumbay Moideen honored with two Doctorates

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA / Ajman, Dubai, U.A.E :

Doctorates awarded for transformative contributions to Medical Education, Healthcare Innovation

Dubai, UAE :

Dr. Thumbay Moideen, Founder President of Thumbay Group, has been awarded two distinguished honorary doctorates in recognition of his outstanding contributions to medical education, healthcare innovation, and philanthropy. The accolades were conferred by Chitkara University, India, and Fergana Medical Institute of Public Health, Uzbekistan, further solidifying his impact on the global healthcare landscape.

At a grand ceremony held at Chitkara University, Chandigarh, India, Dr. Moideen was conferred with the Doctor of Literature (D.Litt) Honoris Causa for his exemplary leadership in advancing medical education, pioneering healthcare initiatives, and fostering innovation in the sector. The award acknowledges his relentless commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility and shaping future generations of medical professionals.

Additionally, Fergana Medical Institute of Public Health, Uzbekistan, honored Dr. Moideen with an Honorary Doctorate, celebrating his visionary role in international healthcare collaborations and his dedication to fostering academic excellence in the medical field.

With these latest honors, Dr. Moideen now holds a total of four honorary doctorates, a testament to his remarkable leadership and visionary contributions.

Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Thumbay Moideen stated, “I am deeply honored to receive these prestigious recognitions. This is not just a personal achievement but a reflection of the unwavering commitment of the entire Thumbay Group towards transforming healthcare and medical education globally. We will continue to push boundaries in innovation, ensuring accessible, high-quality healthcare and education for all.”

Driving Forward Thumbay Group’s Vision 2028, With these accolades further fueling his mission, Dr. Moideen is steadfast in leading Thumbay Group’s Vision 2028, a strategic roadmap aimed at making Thumbay Group a global leader in healthcare, medical education, research, and wellness innovation.

Through his visionary leadership, Dr. Thumbay Moideen continues to turn this ambitious vision into reality, ensuring that Thumbay Group remains at the forefront of healthcare and education innovation. With its rapid expansion and digital transformation strategies, Thumbay Group is on track to achieving and further cementing its status as a global powerhouse in healthcare and education. His relentless pursuit of excellence, coupled with a commitment to social impact, is driving the group’s expansion and shaping the future of the industry.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / March 03rd, 2025

Bearys Innomark unveils India’s first Net-Zero Retail Experience Centre

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA :

India’s first Net-Zero (on-site solar energy) Retail Experience Centre, curated by Bearys Innomark, has set a new benchmark in sustainable architecture and green innovation. The project, which houses the globally renowned furniture brand MillerKnoll, is a testament to Bearys’ longstanding commitment to eco-friendly development and responsible urban design.

The launch event, attended by industry leaders, architects, project management consultants (PMCs), and clients, marked a significant milestone in India’s journey toward sustainable commercial spaces. The occasion was graced by Chief Guests N A Haris Nalapad, MLA of Shanthinagar and Chairman of the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA), Kartik Shethia, Managing Director for APMEA, International Contract, MillerKnoll, Syed Mohamed Beary, Founder & CMD, Bearys Group and Mazhar Beary Executive Director, Business Development & Retail, Bearys Group. Their presence highlighted the importance of sustainable infrastructure in shaping the future of urban development.

For decades, Bearys has been at the forefront of green building initiatives, blending innovation with environmental responsibility.

The MillerKnoll Experience Centre is a reflection of this ethos, demonstrating how cutting-edge design can coexist with sustainability. With on-site solar energy ensuring a Net-Zero footprint, the space is more than just a retail hub—it is a model for the future of responsible commercial development.

The event was not just about unveiling a new retail space but reinforcing a collective vision for a greener tomorrow. By championing sustainable design, Bearys continues to inspire the industry, proving that business growth and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand, the group said in a press statement.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karnataka / by Vartha Bharati / February 15th, 2025

Meet six-year-old Zidaan Jamadar: The Young Football Sensation from Belagavi

Belagavi, KARNATAKA :

Belagavi: 

Football is more than just a game for six-year-old Zidaan Jamadar—it’s a dream in the making. At an age when most children are still discovering their interests, Zidaan is already making his mark on the football field, earning recognition for his skill, discipline, and passion for the sport. With an impressive tally of 148 goals across multiple tournaments, the young footballer from Belagavi is proving to be a name to watch in Indian football.

Zidaan’s journey in football is intertwined with his father, Mohammed Siraj Jamadar’s love for the game. Siraj, a businessman, grew up playing football locally but never had the opportunity to pursue it professionally due to the lack of infrastructure and awareness about the sport in India during the 1990s. Watching international football was a challenge back then, with only limited broadcasts available on Doordarshan. It was only with the arrival of cable television that Indian fans got better access to global football leagues. When the Indian Super League (ISL) was launched in 2013, it reignited Siraj’s passion for the sport. The introduction of international players alongside Indian talent gave him hope that football in India would gain the recognition it deserved. He wished for a son who could pursue the dream he had to let go of—and in 2018, Zidaan was born.

Zidaan’s journey in football began in 2022 when he was just three years old. Enrolled at BFC Soccer Schools in Belagavi, he quickly stood out for his enthusiasm and ability to grasp the game’s fundamentals. His first coach, Abhishek Vincent Harry, fondly remembers his early days. “I vividly recall the first time he joined us at just 3.5 years old. While new to the game, his determination and love for football were evident from the beginning. Watching him perform in the Casa Grand BFC Soccer Shield was truly inspiring. I look forward to seeing him don the blue jersey of the Indian national team one day,” Harry shared.

As he grew, Zidaan moved to the Belagavi United Football Academy (BUFA), where he began playing in the Under-7 KSFA Youth League. His coach at BUFA, Nikhil Bhajantri, was immediately impressed by his talent. “From my very first session, I could see he was a natural. At just five years old, he displayed a deep understanding of the game, quick learning ability, and remarkable dribbling skills. In his first KSFA Youth League match against Raman Sports Academy, he scored a hat trick, playing a crucial role in our victory. He’s truly gifted,” Bhajantri said.

Since starting his football journey, Zidaan has consistently delivered outstanding performances in tournaments across the country, playing in under-6, under-7, and under-8 categories organized by KSFA, FC Goa, and Bengaluru FC. His goal-scoring record is remarkable, with 50 goals for Little Gaur in Goa, 8 goals in the Win More Trophy in Bangalore, 3 goals for AFC Belgaum, 4 goals in the Super Cup FC Goa, 9 goals in the GFL Mini League Belagavi, 20 goals in GFL Belagavi, 20 goals in KSFA Bangalore 2023, 42 goals in KSFA Bangalore 2024, and 4 goals in the Casa Grand Soccer Shield 2025.

His performances have not gone unnoticed. AIFF-certified coach Vishal Kamu from the Manas Sports Development Foundation (MSDF) Academy praised the young footballer’s dedication. “From day one, Zidaan stood out. His hunger to learn, his passion for the game, and his ability to take on challenges make him an exceptional player. He’s focused and hardworking, qualities that will take him a long way,” Kamu noted.

Zidaan’s dedication to football has earned him several accolades, including the Most Valuable Player award from FC Goa Little Gaur, GFL Belagavi, and KSFA 2024.

He was also named Best Player of the Tournament at the BFC Soccer Shield 2025.

He currently holds the record for being the highest goal scorer for the Blue Cubs of the All India Football Federation in the Under-6 category and the top scorer in the Karnataka State Football Association.

Even at this young age, Zidaan follows a disciplined lifestyle that supports his game. His father proudly shared, “Zidaan always carries home-cooked food prepared by his mother to practice. Unlike other kids, he stays away from junk food. His focus and discipline are beyond his years, and as a family, we will always stand by him, no matter what.”

Currently competing in the Little Gaur 2024-25 matches in Goa, Zidaan continues to sharpen his skills and set new benchmarks. With his talent, dedication, and the constant support of his family, he is on a promising path to making a mark in Indian football.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karnataka / by Vartha Bharati / February 18th, 2025

Patent for ‘Device for Monitoring Gynaecological Disorders’ published

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Developed by KMC Mangalore team led by Dr. Haroon, Dr. Sameena, Dr. Chiranjith

Mangalore: 

A patent application for a groundbreaking medical device, Device for Monitoring Gynaecological Disorders, has been officially published, marking a significant achievement for the team of doctors and student inventors from Kasturba Medical College (KMC) Mangalore.

The device is designed to enhance early detection and diagnosis of gynaecological disorders. It incorporates a flexible probe, a rotational brush for effective sampling, and an enzyme-coated detection system, improving precision and efficiency in clinical examinations.

The innovation is credited to Dr. Haroon H, Dr. Sameena H, and Dr. Chiranjit Ghosh from MIT, along with student inventors Krisha Janaswamy, Shashank Sanjay, Adithya Harikrishnan Namboothiri, and Shubham Bhusari.

The official Twitter handle of KMC Mangalore also recognized the accomplishment, congratulating the team for their work in medical innovation.

Dr. Haroon is son of M. Hussain and late Akhila Begum from Arehalli village in Hassan while Dr. Sameena Haroon is daughter of KA Sadiq and Maimoona.

https://twitter.com/KMC_Mangalore/status/1896526335897727289/photo/1

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / March 03rd, 2025

Solapur Boy Abdullah Imran Modifies Bicycle to Run on Solar and Battery Power

Solapur, MAHARASHTRA :

Solapur :

In a remarkable display of innovation, 12-year-old Abdullah Imran Mangalgeri from Solapur has converted a regular bicycle into a hybrid model that runs on battery and solar power, eliminating the need for pedaling.

A Class 7 student of M.A. Pangal Anglo-Urdu High School & Junior College of Arts and Science, Abdullah received the bicycle as a prize for excelling in a district-level speech competition on ethics. Instead of using it conventionally, he invested ₹9,000 and spent six months modifying it into a three-mode bicycle that can be powered by pedaling, a rechargeable battery (lasting up to 25 km), or solar energy (for continuous daytime use).

Abdullah incorporated a solar panel, battery, voice controller, speedometer, central lock system, GPS, and a network controller, giving his bicycle features akin to modern e-vehicles. His passion for science and innovation has driven him to attempt similar experiments in the past, including efforts to create a solar-powered air cooler.

Expressing gratitude for his success, Abdullah stated, “I love inventing. My next project is a solar-powered motorcycle.”

Recognizing his achievement, the school organized a felicitation event where Principal Dr. Haroon Rashid Bagban lauded his potential, calling him a bright mind with a promising future.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / March 03rd, 2025

Bihar’s Taiba Afroz: From Village Dreams to Pilot Wings

Jalalpur Village (Saran District), BIHAR :

Taiba Afroz, hailing from Jalalpur village in Bihar’s Saran district, has soared above economic and societal challenges to become a commercial pilot.

Her journey from a modest background to the skies is a testament to determination and familial support.

From a young age, Taiba aspired to touch the skies. Recognizing her passion, her father, a small-scale grocer, made significant sacrifices to fund her education, even selling land to support her ambitions. This unwavering support propelled Taiba to achieve her dreams.

In 2020, Taiba completed her training at the Government Aviation Training Institute in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. She fulfilled the mandatory 200 hours of flight training, with 100 hours solo, earning her Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) license.

Today, she stands as the first female commercial pilot from Saran, drawing an impressive monthly salary.

Taiba’s journey wasn’t devoid of societal challenges. Facing criticism for donning the pilot’s uniform, she stood firm, asserting that her attire symbolizes her identity and achievements. Her story serves as an inspiration, illustrating that with determination and support, one can overcome obstacles to realize their dreams.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Focus / by Radiance News Burear / March 04th, 2025

Kunjali Maraikkayar; Kutty Muhammad Ali Maraikkayar – 01st in the series of Famous Indians by Al Waris Art & History Project

SOUTH INDIA :

PIX

Maraikkayar (Marakkalalaayar/Marakkar) name refers to the community people who drive business belonging to boats, ships, fishing etc. Maraikkayar is the community they belong to TamilNadu, Kerala & Lanka.

The muslim trade community history record is available in pandiyas, portuguese, french, english.

They are also called Maraikka, Naguda, Malumi, Sukkani & Serangu. (4Kunjali Maraikkayar – Kunjali Maraikkayar I = Kutty Ahmad Ali (1507 – 1531 / 1507 – 1538 / 1520 – 1531 / 1520 – 1538), Kunjali Maraikkayar II = Kutty Pokker Ali (1531 – 1569 / 1531 – 1571), Kunjali Maraikkayar III = Pattu Maraikkar (1571 – 1595), Kunjali Maraikkayar IV = Muhammad Ali Maraikkar (1595 – 1600) Kunjali Maraikkayar was the leader of the marine force for the Kozhikode Raja Samoothiri (Zamorin Dynasty).

Maraikkayar people have done the export business such as rice, ginger, cardamon, pepper, turmeric. Vasco Da Gama landed in Kozhikode in 1498 May 17 or 28 From that he stayed for 86 days. The Portuguese and European traders were not like the Arab traders, Europeans expected monopoly business. European objectives like we only should do the business and not others. The Europeans used firearms, which were invented, produced by the Chinese and then exported to Europeans directly.

In the year 1498 Nov he went back to Portugal. In the year 1503 Vasco da Gama again came back to Hindustan with 1200 Dutch forces. Martin De Souza came with 25 navy ships to attack Kozhikode Samoothiri. Samoothiri made the discussions to attack the Portuguese. Kunjali Maraikkayar advised Samoothiri Raja (Maana Vikraman) that he would start the merchant navy force and attack the Portuguese. Kunjali Maraikkayar constructed the ships with his own wealth.

Vasco da Gama asked (Kalappana Nambudiri) the messenger of Samoothiri whether can we do something to defeat Samoothiri, but he was very honest for his Raja so Vasco da Gama slaughtered the messenger’s ear and stitched the dog’s ear in Kalappana Nambudiri. Vasco da Gama was the one who ordered Samoothiri to avoid doing business with Arabs and to do business only with him. So Vasco da Gama went to ask help with Kochin Raja and he helped to attack Zamorin ships.

Kunjali Maraikkayars fought against the Portuguese for 80 years. Kunjali Maraikkayar I fought against Portuguese Robbers in Kunjali Maraikkayar I fought against Portuguese Robbers in Kilakarai & Vedalayam (Rameshwaram), Kayalpattinam, Nagore, Thoothukudi, Kunjali Maraikkayar I In Thoothukudi dist. There is a perumal koil in madavankurichi (Kunjali Maraikkayar) is worshipped as merchant navy god!

*In the year 1510, Portuguese (Martin De Souza) captured the place Goa. *In the year 1520, Youe De Emiliyo (Leader of Portuguese) attacked Kunjali Maraikkayar navy ships. But Kunjali Maraikkayar attacked and defeated Portuguese from Kozhikode till Goa. At this time from the Deccan (South Hindustan) Avvaro Sante Mehri (Portuguese Leader) attacked Kunjali Maraikkayar with the help of (Portuguese Robbers) Viceroy Di Mento’s 36 ships attacked Kunjali Maraikkayar’s ships. Kunjali Maraikkayar attacked back and killed Viceroy Di Mento (Portuguese Trade Robbers).

*In the year 1521, the Portuguese tried to capture ponnani. So Ahmad Maraikkayar, his brother Kunjali Maraikkayar I, their uncle (mama) Muhammad Ali Maraikkayar from Kochi started to stay in Kozhikode.

*In the year 1523,Samoothiri II made an agreement with the Portuguese because of fear. But Kunjali Maraikkayar I was not getting any help from the government even though he prepared 200 navy force ships for the battle against the Paraingyar. *In the year 1524, Kunjali Maraikkayar I Vs Paraingyars fight was furious, Kunjali won the match, he was shown in the eyes of Parangyars Kunjali hero! *In the year 1525, Kunjali Maraikkayar I and his team lost the battle against the Portuguese. *In the year 1526, Portuguese Robbers attacked suddenly in Barkoor (place name) but Kunjali Maraikkayar and his team attacked and defeated Portuguese. But both of them were having losses. *In the year 1528, Kutty Ali & Kunjali Maraikkayar I and his team Vs Portuguese fought in Barkoor but Kutty Ali was prisoned by the Portuguese. *In the year 1528 in Sethvai, Portuguese stealed, robbed many goods and planned to travel by many ships to Portugal but Kunjali Maraikkayar I attacked Portuguese ships, killed all Portuguese enemies and won the battle. *In the year 1531, Kutty Ahmad Maraikkayar fought against Paraingyars, but due to the extreme war event Kutty Ahamd Maraikkayar was martyred in the battle.

*In the year 1535, Admiral Suleiman Batcha went along with (ruler of Kozhikode) Samoothiri fought and won the battle against Parangiyars.

*In the year 1537, the nomad ‘Kunha’ became the governor and tried to capture Kozhikode, also tried to build the fort in Chaliam, this time Kunjali Maraikkayar II fought against them and won the battle. In the Nagapattinam seashore also the war happened, Kunjali Maraikkayar II went with 51 ships that included around 8000 soldiers to attack them. *In the year 1538, Kunjali Maraikkayar I fought against the Portuguese but he lost the battle. (source Prof. MH Jawahirullah)

*In the year 1565, Thirumala Devarayan Vijayanagar Raja (Krishnadevarayan’s 5th Generation/Grandson of Krishnadevans Grandson’s son) helped the Portuguese by providing money to fight with Maraikkayar & Zamorin. Raja told the Portuguese you attack from the sea, we will attack from the land. Even though they can’t handle Kunjali Maraikkayar III = Pattu Maraikkar (source; Portuguese viceroy’s book – The travels of Francois spirad in the East Indies, Morocco and Brazil)

*Kunjali Maraikkayar I was martyred for the country of Lanka.

*After him, his family took incharge of the protest and fought against the enemies, drohis. In the year 1570 Peppur lake, Chaliam Fort battle Kunjali Maraikkayar II fought against enemies of 65 years war, won and controlled them.

*In the year 1572, Parangyars force stealed, robbed the goods from the masjids, temples, kozhikode port, Thirukodi port, Kappakkattu port, Ponnani port and made huge losses.

*In the year 1586, Kunjali Maraikkayar III fought against the enemies and won the battle.

*In the year 1589, Son-in-Law of Kunjali Maraikkayar III Kuwaji Musa fought against Parangyars and won the battle.

*In the year 1595, Kunjali Maraikkayar IV fought against Parangyars. But the ruler of Kozhikode Samuthri had a secret agreement with the grandson of Vasco da Gama – Francisco da Gama. Kunjali Maraikkayar IV was not aware of this secret agreement, he went to meet the Kozhikode ruler Samoothiri, but the Kozhikode ruler prisoned him and gave it to the parangyars (Lanka Burghers). They tortured by chaining him, without providing any food, sleep made him to die.

Source: India Veeramigu Muslimgal Book by Sh. AbdKader Kashifi, Kasimi

Note: Haji Pakkir Muhammad Sett was the one who donated Rs.2,00,000 to buy the Sudeshi Ship, VO Chidambaram was the captain of the ship.

(Kunjali IV also fought for Sultan of Bijapur & Rani of Pulal!)

Kunjali Maraikkayar built 999 ships, finally his last 1000th ship he planned to build it without any screws. He fought against the Portuguese in Lanka, but portuguese were angry with him and got angry with him they used the chance to kill 700 people in Thoothukudi. So Kunjali Maraikkayar came to Thoothukudi to fight against the Portuguese and won the battle.

And then he went to Lanka. After a couple of months he was martyred by a Portuguese gun bullet in Lanka and buried there. For 25 years he has done the trade by ships. Kunjali Maraikkayars and his team have built 4 forts near the seashore. The fort itself 20 mile from the one to another! Portuguese spied in a wrong way to the raja that he will build a new nation for the mopillas. Raja cheated Maraikkayars by handing him to the Portuguese but Portuguese cheated Zomarin Samoothiri Raja by killing them!

Article by :

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