1939 – 2002

Mammuni Ustad, born in 1939 as the second son among seven siblings to the esteemed Kattattila Husain Kunhi Mukrika-Bifatima couple of Bantwala taluk, was destined for a life dedicated to religious scholarship and community service.

His educational journey commenced with primary Arabic studies at a local madrasa, where he demonstrated exceptional aptitude and dedication. Subsequently, he apprenticed under renowned scholars of Kasaragod, including Thailangadi Ustad and Manjanadi Ustad, distinguished figures of his time. Mammuni Ustad’s scholarly pursuits earned him recognition, culminating in the prestigious honor of receiving the esteemed white turban known as the “Ponnani Taleket,” a symbol of scholarly excellence in that era.

Throughout his illustrious career, Mammuni Ustad served as a muallim and khatib in various locales, including Surinje, Kalladka, Goltamajalu, Deralkatte, and his hometown of Kattattila. However, his most enduring legacy lies in his pivotal role as the principal architect of the Central Juma Masjid and Madrasa in Tamaraje near Salethur.

Prior to the establishment of this institution, students from Tamaraje and neighboring villages faced arduous journeys to attend madrasa classes in Kattattila, particularly challenging during the rainy season when traversing hilly terrain and dense forests posed significant risks.

The impetus for establishing a local madrasa arose from a harrowing incident in which a student from Tamaraje narrowly escaped drowning in a waterlogged ditch known as Natekallu. Prompted by this incident, community leaders rallied to establish a madrasa in Tamaraje, with generous donations of land from prominent families facilitating the construction of a modest hut to house the initial classes. Under the stewardship of Mammuni Ustad, the madrasa flourished, expanding its facilities from a humble hut to a sturdy mud-walled building over the years.

Mammuni Ustad’s dedication and leadership extended beyond the realm of education to encompass the establishment of a local mosque, providing residents with a convenient venue for Friday prayers. The inauguration of the mosque in 1986 marked a significant milestone, with Mammuni Ustad assuming the role of Khateeb and Muallim, thereby nurturing countless disciples over the course of 32 years. Under his guidance, numerous students attained religious degrees, enriching the community with their knowledge and devotion.

Beyond his scholarly pursuits, Mammuni Ustad was renowned for his simplicity, spirituality, and proficiency in disciplines such as Karma Shastra. A deeply spiritual individual, he immersed himself in Sufi traditions.

Born and brought up in a rural area, he was one of the leading scholars and left behind his wife, three sons and four daughters on August 12, 2002.