1943 – 2010

Dr. A. Wahab Doddamane, born in Bandar, Mangalore in 1943 to Muhammad Abdul Qadir Al Qazi and Beefathima, was a multifaceted individual. After graduating from Mangalore Government College, he pursued a Diploma in Medicine in Madras and served as a doctor in Bandar for approximately 25 years. Alongside his medical practice, Dr. Doddamane developed a keen interest in language, art, literature, history, and research.

Amidst his medical career, he delved into researching Beary language, literature, and culture, culminating in the publication of the renowned English study book titled “Muslims in Dakshina Kannada” in 1993. This book gained recognition both nationally and internationally and has been a valuable resource for many students, sparking discussions even at the university level. In 2008, Dr. Doddamane released the revised Kannada version of the book titled “Tulunadina Muslims.”

Additionally, he compiled an English-Kannada-Beary language dictionary in 1997, published by the Bearys Welfare Association, Bangalore. Despite the limitation in printing, the dictionary contained around 8,000 words, offering a significant contribution to linguistic resources.

Dr. Wahab Doddamane also authored “Wahab’s Tulunadu” in 1998, which provides insights into the history of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, serving as a helpful guide for tourists. Another notable achievement was his creation of “Odu Kidavu Odu,” the first children’s literary work in the Beary language, published by the Beary Study Center in 2006.

Dr. A. Wahab Doddamane was a prolific figure involved in various literary, cultural, and social endeavors throughout his life. As the editor of the magazine “Apsara” in 1996, he also spearheaded publications such as “Haj Yatra” and “Samaja Sanskara,” contributing stories, poems, and articles to enrich the literary landscape.

His editorial contributions extended to works like “Poly,” published by the Dakshina Kannada District Administration, where he showcased his writing prowess in Beary, Kannada, English, and Tulu languages. Known for his oratory skills from his college days, Dr. Doddamane actively participated in dramatic performances and served as the secretary of the Kannada Association at Mangalore Government College. He was a vocal advocate for the anti-Hindi movement and held leadership roles in various student unions, including being the first president of Dakshina Kannada District All College Students Union and founding the Youth Service Council.

Dr. Wahab Doddamane’s involvement in political and social circles continued as he served as the Dakshina Kannada District President of the All India Youth Federation and was a founding member of the Indira Congress in 1968. He actively participated in cultural events, academic conferences, and social gatherings, presenting papers on diverse topics.

He is survived by two sons and one daughter from his first wife. He passed away on October 1, 2010.

Considering the research done by Dr. A. Wahab Doddamane related to the field of Beary language, BA Muhammad Hanif, who was the president of Akhila Bharatha Beary Parishad, named the “Beary Study Center” named after Dr. A. Wahab Doddamane.