1927 – 2010

Abdullah Ustad Mandekolu, born in 1927 to Mukri Ermalla who dedicated over 67 years of his life to serving as Khatib and Mukri at Mandekolu in Sullia taluk and Aisamma,. Renowned for his mastery of the tambourine, Abdullah Ustad imparted his knowledge to more than 7,000 students from various regions spanning Dakshina Kannada, Kodagu, and Kerala. His expertise extended beyond playing the tambourine; he was also skilled in crafting them from goat skins, a craft he passionately passed down to his interested students.

Despite not being formally employed by any mosque or madrasa, Abdullah Ustad’s influence reached hundreds of mosques and madrasas, where he tirelessly taught the art of playing the daf. His disciples were spread across locations such as Kajur, Ajilamogaru, Marakada, and Malar Arasthan in Dakshina Kannada district. Wherever he went, he established Rifaee Ratib Committees, serving as their president or honorary president upon request, organizing regular gatherings and anniversaries to perform Rifai Ratib.

Abdullah Ustad’s spiritual journey also included seven pilgrimages to Hajj and two visits to Bagdad to meet the members of Rifai Shaikh’s generationKnown for his distinctive appearance—blue-skinned with a white beard—Abdullah Ustad had notable habits, and meticulously recording his daily activities in a book.

Affectionately referred to as “Daf Ustad” or “Mandekolu Ustad,” Abdullah Ustad’s presence was cherished by all who knew him. His fervent prayers resonated with the masses, and his absence was keenly felt by his admirers. Following the passing of his wife Khatija, his enthusiasm for teaching the daf waned. He departed from this world in 2010, leaving behind two sons and a daughter.