01/01/1946 – 29/07/2019

P.M. Abbas Musliar, born on January 1, 1946, as the son of Muhammad Kunha and Bifathima Hajjumma in Hakattur near Madikeri, Kodagu district, emerged as a prominent senior scholar with remarkable contributions to religious, educational, and social fields. Although born in Kodagu, he established his professional base in Manjanadi, Dakshina Kannada district, and was actively involved in Karnataka, Kerala, and even Gulf countries.

His journey in religious education began under the tutelage of Ahmed Musliar in Otupalli, Hakattur, Kodagu. He furthered his studies for five years under Abdullah Kutty Musliyar in Kondangeri, Kodagu. Continuing his quest for knowledge, he joined Ullala Thangal dars for three years. Seeking higher education, he pursued Dauratul Hadith in Deoband, Uttar Pradesh, graduating in 1968.

Transitioning into teaching, Abbas Ustad initially served as a Mudaris for five years in Delampadi, Kasaragod district. Subsequently, he spent two years in Ujire near Belthangadi, Dakshina Kannada district, before settling in Manjanadi. His affinity for Manjanadi developed during his student years in Ullala. Establishing a systematic approach to teaching in Manjanadi, he forged a close bond with CP Muhammad Kunhi Musliar, renowned as Manjanadi Ustad, earning a reputation as a beloved teacher.

Following the retirement of Manjanadi Ustad after 25 years of dedicated service, Abbas Ustad assumed the mantle as his successor, illuminating the path of religious education that had been nurtured by his predecessor. In 1994, after serving as a Dars for nearly 21 years, he founded the Al Madina Yatim Khana Institute. He remained committed to teaching there until his passing.

Over his more than five decades as a Mudaris, Ustad Abbas imparted knowledge to hundreds of students, nurturing and cultivating many scholars along the way.

He is credited with raising awareness about education and providing essential support, including free accommodation, food, clothing, and education, to orphaned and underprivileged students. This initiative was particularly significant at a time when many from poor and middle-class backgrounds were unable to access education due to financial constraints or a lack of awareness about its importance. Recognizing the disparities in access to English education, which was predominantly available in urban areas and among the affluent, he established separate schools and colleges, prioritizing women’s education, to ensure that children from rural areas could access English education at affordable rates alongside religious education.

Thanks to his tireless efforts and visionary leadership, religious and secular educational institutions thrive today on the expansive 25-acre campus of the Al Madina Institute in Manjanadi. These institutions include the Yatim Khana (Orphanage), Nirgatika Mandir (Shelter Home), North Karnataka Home, Hifzul Qur’an College, Junior and Senior Daawa Colleges, Kannada Medium High School, English Medium High School, Women’s College, Women’s Shariat College, and Pre-Islamic School, among others. The Al Madinah campus serves as a learning hub for approximately 3,000 students. Graduates who complete their religious education and become alims are conferred with the prestigious title of Marzookhi.

Abbas Ustad was renowned for organizing mass marriages, facilitating the unions of over 500 orphaned and underprivileged girls with the generous support of donors. He advocated for simple mass marriage ceremonies, promoting societal harmony and facilitating the marriage of those in need. Additionally, with the assistance of donors from Arab countries, he played a crucial role in constructing numerous mosques in various neighborhoods.

Furthermore, Abbas Ustad received spiritual guidance and initiation from numerous esteemed scholars, Sufis, and Sadats in the spiritual realm. He had undertaken pilgrimages to many revered burial sites (Makbars) both within the country and abroad.

Abbas Ustad’s literary pursuits were notable, with one of his most renowned works being the Nabi Kirtan titled “Mankhus Maulid,” originally penned in Malayalam and later translated into Kannada. The significance of this work is underscored by its publication and distribution by the esteemed “Isik Kitabevi” publishing house in Turkey, further amplifying its impact and reach. Additionally, Ustad authored “Azeer Swaja Charitari,” which has been published in Kannada, along with the Arabic book “Attawassul,” released in 2013.

As one of the preeminent Ulama in the country, Abbas Ustad held esteemed positions, serving as a member of the Mushawar of the prestigious All Kerala Jamiyatul Ulama. He also held roles such as Treasurer of Sunni Jamiyatul Ulama, the Ulama Union of Karnataka, and Chairman of the Karnataka Sunni Co-ordination Committee. Furthermore, he contributed as Deputy Qazi for numerous mohallas, showcasing his commitment to community service and leadership.

Throughout his life, Abbas Ustad performed multiple Hajj pilgrimages, commencing with his first journey in 1997 and subsequent visits to various Gulf countries including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Malaysia. In recognition of his scholarly, enlightened, and impactful contributions to education and social service, Indian Grand Mufti A.P. Abu Bakr Musliar bestowed upon him the esteemed title of “Sharaful Ulama” (Great Ulama). Upon his passing on July 29, 2019, Abbas Ustad left behind his wife Asia, along with five sons and three daughters.