Noted businessman who owned one of UK’s oldest Indian restaurant dies in Kerala

LONDON April 20: Noted businessman and one of an early migrant from Kerala to London Usman Abubacker Haji (91) passed away in private hospital in Kozhikode today (20/4/2024). Born in 1933 in Kerala, Usman was one of those children who had to shoulder responsibilities at an early age like thousands of unfortunate ones during those times.

At the tender age of fifteen, he embarked on a life-changing journey, arriving in Chennai (formerly Madras) in search of employment. He secured a job at a local stationery shop, marking the beginning of his adventurous career. Driven by the desire to explore new horizons, he eventually made his way to Bombay (now Mumbai) where his eldest brother resided. In Bombay, a chance encounter with a Merchant Navy acquaintance opened up a new world of opportunities, leading him to work on ships, taking on various odd jobs. This maritime experience ultimately brought him to the shores of the United Kingdom, laying the foundation for a transformative chapter in his life.

In 1970, Usman Abubacker began his career in the food industry as a waiter at The Halal Restaurant in East London. Over time, his hard work and dedication paid off when, in 1978, he was able to purchase the establishment from its second owner. With this acquisition, Usman became the proud owner of The Halal Restaurant, an iconic establishment in East London that had first opened its doors in 1939, making it the oldest Indian restaurant in the area.

Usman Abubacker, during his later years, returned to his hometown of Koyilandy, where he owned multiple businesses and actively engaged in numerous charitable endeavors aimed at uplifting the less fortunate and vulnerable members of society. Through his entrepreneurial pursuits and dedication to philanthropy, Usman Abubacker made significant contributions to the local community, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of many in Koyilandy.

Funeral will be held according to Muslim religious rites tomorrow (Sunday April 21) from 8am. (Janaza Namaz. Sunday, April 21, 8 am (Kuruvangad Central Masjidul Bilal) including grave 8.15 am Kuruvangad Juma Masjid)

Wife Halima Hajjumma (deceased) Children: Naseema (deceased) Razia, Mehboob (London) Mustafa (London) Ayesha (London) Fazila (Abu Dhabi) Daughter-in-law. Muhammadali (deceased) Ibrahim Kutty (deceased) Shahina (Pallikara). Marshida (Farooq) Hisham (Kozhikode)

Malayalee Association of UK (MAUK) has paid homage. Sreejith Sreedharan, Chairperson of MAUK said: “Usman Haji was among the first generation of Malayalees who migrated to the UK. He was one of the few to start a business, and his Halal Restaurant in Aldgate became a popular caterers for Malayalee events in the latter part of the 20th century. Even today, it is a go-to place for first and second-generation British Malayalees. Usman Ikka, as he was fondly called, provided top-quality food to the community at affordable rates, never turning down requests for help. He was known for his generosity both in the UK and Kerala, and his humble and affectionate nature towards all those he met. Halal Restaurant, under Usman Ikka and later his son Mahaboob, supported MAUK’s initiatives and provided lunch for the Elders Club until MAUK started catering in-house. MAUK pays tribute to a remarkable British Malayalee entrepreneur, humanitarian, and one of our most loyal supporters.

The Halal Restaurant in London was started by Mr. Jaffer in 1939. Initially, it served as a mess for Indian merchant seamen, with rooms located upstairs. Usman Abubacker, who later became the proprietor of the restaurant, initially worked there as a waiter in 1970 and eventually purchased it from its second owner, Mr. Chandru, in 1978.

Usman’s eldest son, Mahaboob currently manages The Halal restaurant at Aldgate East in London.