01/10/1953 – 20/07/2017

Haji B. Hussain, affectionately known as Hussain Haji or Sultan Haji, was admired for his simplicity, generosity, and humility throughout his life. He earned the trust and affection of the Beary Muslim community and people of all faiths. Despite his success in business, he remained grounded and accessible, always ready to assist others in need.

His influence extended beyond Dakshina Kannada district to Udupi, Kodagu, and even to districts like Mysore, Mandya, and Hassan. He made significant contributions to the social and religious fabric of these regions. Despite his wealth, he lived a modest life, serving as an exemplary role model for others. Despite his fame, he remained humble and approachable, never allowing his success to inflate his ego.

Born on October 1, 1953, in Budoli near Uppinangadi, Hussain Haji was the eldest among three sons and three daughters of Muhammad Haji and Zanaba. He received his early education at Peraje Government Primary School in Bantwal taluk and pursued religious studies at a madrasa.

Raised in poverty, Hussain Haji faced hardships but remained determined to succeed. He added the letter “B” to his name, symbolizing his hometown Budoli. Starting with a small hotel business in Kopadava, Bantwala Taluk, he later worked as a foreman in the beedi industry and eventually took over it on lease in the area. Through hard work and perseverance, he gradually established himself in the business world.

At the age of 24, he married Rukhiya from Bannur in Puttur taluk and later joined his brother-in-law’s shop. In 1974, he moved to Kodaje and started his own beedi business under the name “Sultan,” inspired by a name he saw in the newspaper. Despite initial challenges, Sultan Beedi gained popularity, and in 1975, it was legally registered with the trademark number 4.

In rural areas, both men and women worked tirelessly as beedi laborers. Sultan Beedi’s success led to its expansion beyond coastal areas to the old Mysore region. Hussain Haji’s business provided employment opportunities to many, directly and indirectly supporting the livelihoods of around 15,000 people, including approximately 4,000 families involved in daily road construction work. As his business flourished, he relocated his family to Kodaje.

After achieving success in business, Hussain Haji generously shared his wealth with those in need, never turning anyone away empty-handed. He made it a habit to give charity every day, and he extended his support to mosques, madrasas, schools, orphanages, dargahs, temples, and other charitable causes, either through monetary donations or by providing materials. He also sponsored the marriages of underprivileged girls, always preferring to help without seeking recognition or publicity. Through his acts of kindness, he earned the love and trust of the community.

In 1988-89, Hussain Haji performed his first Hajj pilgrimage and went on to complete the journey ten times in his lifetime. This earned him the affectionate title of “Haji” or “Sultan Haji” among all who knew him. He dedicated over a decade of service as President and Vice-President of Badria Juma Masjid in Kodaje. In 1999, he funded the construction of the Indian Auditorium at Nerlakatte.

Despite his wealth, Hussain Haji lived a modest and humble life, never indulging in extravagance or luxury. He preferred simplicity and led by example through his lifestyle.

He passed away on July 20, 2017, leaving behind his wife Rukhiya and eight children, including six sons and two daughters. The large gathering of mourners at his funeral was a testament to the love and respect he had earned from the community. Even months after his passing, people continued to visit his home to offer condolences, demonstrating the lasting impact he had on their lives. Today, his sons are carrying on his legacy by leading the “Sultan” beedi industry.