15/05/1940 – 17/02/1995

Muhammad Haji was born on May 15, 1940, as the eldest son of Syed Alabi Aisamma in Ilanthila, Belthangadi Taluk of Dakshina Kannada District. Growing up in a town with limited connectivity, where the only way to reach the nearest town, Uppinangady, was by boat across the Netravati River, Muhammad’s parents, despite being illiterate, were determined to provide their children with a good education. Despite the absence of a school in their town, they ensured that Muhammad and his siblings attended school by crossing the river to Uppinangady. Muhammad excelled in his primary education and went on to complete his SSLC from his brother-in-law’s house in Puttur. Subsequently, he pursued his Intermediate at Saint Philomena College, Puttur, and later enrolled at BDT College, Davangere. He earned his BE (Civil) Engineering degree in 1967 and MIE in 1969, becoming the first civil engineer from the Uppinangadi-Puttur area.

Despite securing a job at Shankar Narayan Company in Belgaum, Muhammad chose to resign within a year and establish his contracting firm, “I. Muhammad Construction Company.” Starting with small-scale projects, he gradually ventured into larger contracts, securing a government contract for constructing the Hidal dam. Subsequently, he undertook significant projects such as the construction of the Gokak Power House, National Highway, Varuna Overpass in Mysore, and a bridge in Holenarasipur, Hassan district. Additionally, he constructed over 800 houses for the Mysore Urban Development Authority. Upon settling in Mysore, Muhammad gained recognition as a philanthropist, engaging in social service alongside his professional endeavors. Those close to him recall that he never turned away anyone seeking assistance at his doorstep.

Muhammad played a pivotal role in uniting the Beary community in Mysore, spearheading the establishment of the “Beary Sangh” and serving as its inaugural president. Notably, he was the architect behind the design of the Kerala Masjid on Akhtar Road and the Tipu Masjid in Mysore.

In recognition of his contributions, Muhammad was honored by “The Indian Institute of Engineering India” in 1981. He was an active member of the All India Builders Association and participated in various associations in Mysore.

Having been born and raised in Ilanthila near Uppinangadi, Muhammad later settled in Mysore, where he earned the affection of the local populace. He was survived by his wife Amina Begum, three sons, and one daughter, following his passing on February 17, 1995.