1900 – 1961

K.V. Hussain Kunhi was born in 1900 to Sufikutty and Khadija in Vamanjur, near Manjeshwar. Despite the lack of popularity in medical education at the time, he received a comprehensive education, mastering not only Quran and Hadith but also Ayurveda. Proficient in preparing various Ayurvedic medicines, he dedicated his life to serving as a doctor.

Driven by his asceticism, Hussain Kunhi left behind his family’s considerable property and his native town, settling in Kanthadaka, Vitla, Bantwal Taluk. There, he delved into the study of Ayurvedic Science under the guidance of an Ayurvedic Pandit in Uppinangadi Alake, shaping it into his profession.

Despite the distance, Dr. Hussain Kunhi traversed the town on foot, underscoring his dedication to his work. He presented each of his children with a handwritten copy of the Quran, a cherished gift still treasured by his descendants. Known for his diligence, he personally attended to all tasks, even as some of his written works faced the erosion of time.

In an era when medical resources were scarce, patients from far and wide sought his expertise. Dr. Hussain Kunha examined them and prescribed suitable remedies. He provided hospitality to those who traveled long distances, ensuring their comfort until they recuperated. His benevolence extended to treating the poor and disabled without charge, often covering their transportation expenses.

Every medicinal preparation was well-crafted, with precise measurements and ingredients sourced from his own cows. His principled approach to life earned him the admiration of his family, who fondly remember his saintly demeanor. Despite the scarcity of educational opportunities, he prioritized his daughters’ education, sending them to school up to the fifth standard in Kanatadaka.

Even after his passing on November 26, 1961, Dr. Hussain Kunhi’s legacy endured, with countless individuals seeking his medicines for decades. His eldest son, Mohammed Doctor, carried on the family tradition by establishing a medical shop in Vitla, preserving his father’s medical legacy.

His wife, K. Mariam, shared his traditional values and philanthropic spirit, actively contributing to the community. Together, they raised five sons and five daughters.