15/03/1903 – 10/03/1969

Farangipet Hussain Wodeyar, often known as F.H. Odeyar, was born on March 15, 1903, in Mangalore to Sairabba Beary, belonging to a prosperous family from Arkula near Farangipete in Bantwala Taluk. He received his education at the Basel Mission School while residing at the “Paunaraga” Tarawadu house in Bundar, Mangalore. He met Mahatma Gandhi and Shaukat Ali when they came to Mangalore in 1920 and plunged into the freedom struggle.

During the freedom struggle, F.H. Odeyar actively participated in various activities, advocating for the country’s independence and Hindu-Muslim unity. Known for his eloquence and command over the Australized Kannada language, he frequently delivered speeches across the undivided Dakshina Kannada district. Additionally, he was a patron of Talamaddale gatherings and organized his own “Wodeyar Balaga,” showcasing Yakshagana performances at various temples in Mangalore and cultural events.

With extensive land holdings in surrounding villages, F.H. Odeyar was colloquially referred to as “Wodeyar” by locals.

Dr. F.H. Odeyar pursued Ayurvedic medicine under Ayurvedic Pandit Taranath at Prema Vidyapeeth in Tungabhadra, gaining recognition as a prominent doctor. He established clinics in both Hassan and Mangalore, serving the community with his medical expertise.

A committed worker-leader of the Congress Party, Dr. F.H. Wodeyar advocated for workers’ rights, actively participating in the fight for minimum wages. He entered politics in 1947 while practicing medicine in Hassan, where he also contested and won municipal elections before shifting his focus to Mangalore in 1956.

In addition to his political involvement, Dr. F.H. Wodeyar contributed to journalism by publishing a magazine called “Udayachandra.” His residence near Arkula, adjacent to the National Highway, known as “Wodeyar Agah,” stands as a testament to his legacy. This historic two-story house, meticulously maintained by his family, houses artifacts and items from that era.

Dr. F.H. Wodeyar, renowned for his involvement in Yakshagana, his activism in the freedom struggle, his eloquence as an orator, and his medical practice, battled illness for about 12 years before passing away on March 10, 1969, at his residence on Bundar Ansari Road, Mangalore.

Despite not having children of his own, Dr. F.H. Odeyar’s wife, Zulekha, played a pivotal role in supporting and driving his various activities and initiatives.