Former Qatar resident remembered as guiding light to student community

Former Qatar resident and prominent Indian expatriate K V Abdullakutty Haji (pictured), who passed away in Kerala on March 11, is remembered in community circles as a dedicated social worker, prudent organiser, and educationist.
Haji, who left Qatar for good in 2020 after 53 years, was committed in supporting the underprivileged and guiding the student community. “He initiated many steps to implement career development plans in Indian schools while joining hands with educational agencies,” reminisced Centre for Information and Guidance India (Cigi) Doha vice-chairman Issuddin K K.
Haji tirelessly worked to implement several initiatives including the community leadership programme for job seekers and careerists. A founding leader of the Kerala Muslim Cultural Centre (KMCC) Qatar, he later focused on the activities of Cigi Doha by leading workshops, awareness campaigns and career coaching programmes. “Cigi owes much to this visionary. He inspired students to pursue higher studies,” Issuddin said.
“I was very close to him and we worked together in several initiatives. He spoke with charisma and politeness and inspired the people around him. He was widely respected for an array of virtues,” said World KMCC vice-president S A M Basheer.
Haji reached Qatar on August 22, 1967 and his decades long life in Qatar showcased the commitment to the tireless pursuit of social work. During his tenure in Qatar, Haji worked with four ministers and several organisations. “Nothing hindered him from keeping himself improving. He always wanted to learn from anyone he met. Haji will be remembered as a creative and determination in the cause of education and community development – a mission continued even into his death,” Basheer added.
Haji was laid to rest at Njamanangad mosque burial ground at his home village in Thrissur district where thousands paid last tributes. Haji is survived by his wife Safiya, sons Ruknudin Abdulla and Rahmuddin and daughters Ryhana and Ruksana.
A condolence meeting was held at MES Indian School in Doha. Cigi Doha chairman E P Abdurahman presided over the event. Representatives of various Indian community organisations attended.