24/04/1935 – 14/12/2013

B. Abdul Khader Haji, born on April 25, 1935, to Haji Muhiyuddin (Moydin) and Mariamma in Bandar Kandak, Mangalore, completed his SSLC from Rosaria High School and his second PUC from Government College. He then ventured into the shipping industry, becoming a partner in Hasan Haji & Company.

Aside from his business pursuits, Khader Haji actively engaged in social service and entered the political arena. He forged close ties with senior leaders of the Congress party and contested the Mangalore Municipal Corporation elections on a Congress ticket. His efforts bore fruit when he won the election and served as a corporator from 1983 to 1988. Moreover, he held the prestigious position of Mayor of Mangalore Metropolitan Corporation from January 28, 1985, to January 12, 1986, during the tenure of 1984-85.

Abdul Khader Haji holds the distinction of being the first mayor from the Beary community, a testament to his pioneering role in local governance. Even after his mayoral term ended, he remained widely recognized as Mayor Khader Haji, a name that became synonymous with his leadership and contributions.

In addition to his mayoral tenure, Abdul Khader Haji served as the Chairman of the Mangalore Urban Development Authority twice, from August 12, 1993, to December 29, 1994, and from October 31, 2003, to July 22, 2005.

Abdul Khader Haji was deeply involved in the Congress party from a young age, demonstrating his commitment to community and political engagement. He served as the vice president of The Central Muslim Committee and played a key role as the convenor of Badria Educational Institution. Additionally, he was an avid football player, actively participating as a member of the Mangalore KPK team.

Abdul Khader Haji passed away on December 14, 2013, leaving behind his wife Mariamma, as well as three sons and five daughters.