1880 – 1966

Haji M. Kunhamu was born into a well-off family in 1880 in Sajipa village, Bantwala taluk. He moved to Bandar Kandak, Mangalore, where he started his business.

He became popular for standing up against the powerful “Paunaraga” family in Mangalore, who controlled a lot of land. People admired him for his bravery and called him the “tiger of Kandak.”

During the severe plague outbreak of 1905 in Mangalore, Kunhamu Haji stepped up to help the public, earning their affection. His efforts were praised by Azizuddin, the District Collector at the time. Kunhamu Haji also extended assistance to the needy during the famine of 1930. Additionally, he played a significant role in welcoming Sir Mirza Ismail, the Diwan of Mysore, during his visit to Mangalore in 1939.

Apart from his public service, Kunhamu Haji served as a Councilor in the Mangalore Municipal Council and also worked as a Bench Magistrate. He was well-known and respected as a successful trader in the community.

Kunhamu Haji was not only known for his strength as a wrestler but also for his remarkable physique, which allowed him to famously bend iron rods in circuses.

As the founding secretary of the Mangalore Muslim Education Institute (Badria Education Institute) established in 1924, he played a pivotal role in promoting modern education among Muslim youth. His passion for education led him to establish a library in Bandar, furthering access to knowledge in the community. Additionally, he was instrumental in the establishment of “The Boarding Society” in 1905.

He passed away on 23 November 1966, leaving behind his wife Fatima and three daughters.