K. Muhammad Essa, a prominent businessman and community leader in Qatar, died on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at the Hamad Medical Corporation hospital, according to reports from Madhyamam and Malayalam Samayam. He was 68.
Essa, who was undergoing treatment for pneumonia, was the General Manager of Ali International Group and a Senior Vice President of the Qatar KMCC. He held leadership positions in numerous organizations, contributing significantly to the socio-cultural landscape of the Malayali community in Qatar, as reported by Madhyamam.
Indian Ambassador to Qatar, Vipul, described Essa’s death as an irreparable loss to the Indian expatriate community in Qatar, according to Malayalam Samayam. He made the statement during a multi-party memorial meeting organized by the KMCC Qatar State Committee at the Recent Ideal Indian School grounds in Abu Hamour.
Ambassador Vipul noted that he had numerous opportunities to engage with Essa regarding the concerns and issues faced by Indian expatriates. He characterized Essa as a dynamic and energetic individual.
A memorial meeting was held on Friday, February 13th at the ICC, according to Kerala Sabdam. The KMCC Qatar Committee organized a commemoration titled ‘Mayathe Manasile…’ (Unfading in the Mind) to honor Essa’s memory. Faisal Elettil, a researcher from Mappilappattu, delivered the memorial speech, describing Essa as an exemplary personality who was deeply involved in political, social, charitable, and cultural spheres.
Elettil highlighted Essa’s support for artists and cultural initiatives, noting his willingness to understand and assist struggling artists. He stated that Essa treated philanthropic work and artistic endeavors with equal importance, supporting organizations like the CH Center, Baiturrahma, the Muslim League, and the KMCC, while also prioritizing the welfare of artists.
The memorial meeting was presided over by Dr. Abdul Samad, President of KMCC Qatar, and inaugurated by Sainul Abideen Safari, National Vice President of the Muslim League. A.P. Manikandan and Shanawas Bava, Apex Body representatives of the Indian Embassy, along with World KMCC leaders S.A.M. Basheer, Abdunnasar Nachi, Haider Chungathara, and KMCC Qatar Malappuram District President Sawad Veliyankode, also addressed the gathering. Essa’s son-in-law, Azad, also spoke at the event.
A video tribute to Essa, prepared by Majeed Nadapuram, Chairman of the KMCC Kalasamithi Review Committee, was presented. Saleem Nalakath, State General Secretary, extended the welcome, and P.S.M. Husein delivered the vote of thanks. Muhammad Sufiyan performed the Khira’ath, and Saleem Rahmani led the prayers.