1888 – 1960

Mohiddin Kutty Haji, originally from Kasaragodu, Honnavara in Uttara Kannada District, settled under Mudigere Municipality in Chikmagalur District. His family roots traced back to Kasaragod in Kerala, where many of his ancestors had migrated to a small village near Honnavar. Over time, the locals began referring to the inhabitants of this village as Kasaragodu, and it is believed that the name Kasaragodu originated from this practice.

Born in 1888 to Moidin Saab and Bifatima, Mohiddin Kutty grew up in Kundapur and received his education in Mangalore, completing up to the fourth standard. Despite his limited formal education, his life experiences and interactions with the British enabled him to converse fluently in English.

In 1910, while riding with his family near Honnavara, a British officer fell into a lake after his horse stumbled. Despite the presence of a guard who did not act, Mohiddin Kutty jumped into the lake and saved the officer. Impressed by his bravery, the British officer invited Mohiddin Kutty to join him at the Kammaragodu estate in Mudigere Taluk. Mohiddin Kutty and his wife, Khatijamma, moved to Kammaragodu in 1911, where the officer provided them with accommodations and taught Mohiddin Kutty about gun preparation and ammunition.

Subsequently, Mohiddin Kutty obtained a gun license from the British government and opened his own gun shop in Mudigere. His shop became popular among neighboring British officers who frequented it to purchase ammunition. In 1930, during the Mysore government’s administration, Mohiddin Kutty ventured into contracting work, undertaking various projects such as road construction, sewer systems, culverts, and public works buildings. His successful endeavors earned him recognition and honors from both the Mysore king and Mirza Ismail, establishing him as a respected and prosperous contractor in the region.

Mohiddin Kutty Haji was a prominent figure in Mudigere, known for his leadership in political, social, and educational spheres. He served as a member and vice-chairman of the Mudigere Municipality for 20 years, and a major road in Mudigere is named after him in recognition of his service. He was known for his generosity, often arranging marriages for the poor and needy individuals in his community and providing them with support to start their lives.

As a leader, Mohiddin Kutty Haji was known for his impartiality and commitment to justice. He would often resolve disputes and deliver fair judgments, earning him the respect and admiration of the people in Mudigere. His sense of justice transcended caste and social barriers, and he was known to extend a helping hand to all, regardless of their background.

Mohiddin Kutty Haji’s involvement in the Quit India Movement of 1942 led to the revocation of his license by the British government. However, after independence, he regained his license and continued his contributions to the community. He was instrumental in the construction of lakes, culverts, and roads in the region, and he also played a significant role in promoting education. He provided space in his own home for classes and established a madrasa in 1940, covering its expenses personally. This madrasa is recognized as the first madrasa in the Chikkamagaluru district.