1. URDU HERITAGE IN KERALA
BY
RIYASUDHEEN. CU
DARUL HUDA ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY
KERALA, INDIA
2014

2. II
URDU HERAITAGE IN KERALA
BY
RIYASUDHEEN. CU
A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the
requirements for the degree of Master Islamic and
Human Science (Daʿwa and Comparative Religion)
Darul Huda Islamic University, Kerala
DECEMBER 2014

3. There is no mode of action, no form of emotion that we don’t share with
lower animals; it is only by language that we raise above them
Oscar Wilde

4. II
ABSTRACT
Many art forms and genres had thrived Kerala affluently and a lot of disiplines a well.
When we ponder over an area of knowledge, the discourse on its origin, arrival,
survival and influences that had exerted comes inevitable. My research concerns the
Urdu language, one of such discipline, in the context of Kerala. It is abundantly clear
that the colloborative ventures of zamorins, adversaris of British rule and proponents
of Urdu language helped Urdu set foot in Kerala. Moreover, the discussion on Urdu
language brings the Arakkal dynasty forth to be analysed. My research accounts the
genres of Urdu language, namely, Urdu poetry, Gazal, Magazines, translations and
Hindustani music. Further, it develops through the biographical accounts of noted
bulwarks that contributed aboundanthy for the nourishment of Urdu language and
provides cultural aspects; Urdu had gained, in the books of schools and publications in
Kerala.

5. III
‫ا‬
‫ﻋﻠﻤﻴﺔ‬ ‫ﺛﻘﺎﻓﺔ‬ ‫ع‬‫ﻣﺰر‬ ‫ﻛﲑﻻ‬‫ان‬،‫ﺷﺎﳐﺔ‬ ‫اﺷﻴﺎخ‬ ‫ﺑﺄﻳﺪى‬ ‫اﻟﻌﻠﻢ‬ ‫ﺑﺬور‬ ‫ﻓﻴﻬﺎ‬ ‫ﻧﺜﺮت‬ ‫أرض‬ ‫ﻫﻲ‬.‫وﻗﻌﺖ‬ ‫ﻗﺪ‬
‫أو‬ ‫اﻟﺒﻼغ‬ ‫ﻣﻦ‬ ‫ﻧﻮع‬ ‫أي‬ ‫ﻋﻦ‬ ‫اﻷﲝﺎث‬ ‫ﺗﺘﻢ‬ ‫ﻻ‬ ‫اﻟﺒﻼﻏﻴﺔﺣﻘﻴﻘﺔ‬‫و‬ ‫اﻟﻌﻠﻤﻴﺔ‬ ‫ات‬‫ر‬‫اﻟﺜﻮ‬ ‫ﻣﻦ‬ ‫ﻛﺜﲑ‬ ‫ﻫﻨﺎك‬
‫اﻹﻧﺴﺎﻧﻴﺔ‬ ‫ﺣﻴﺎة‬ ‫ﰱ‬ ‫وﺗﺄﺛﲑﻫﺎ‬ ‫وﳎﻴﺌﻬﺎ‬ ‫ﻣﺼﺪرﻫﺎ‬ ‫ﻋﻦ‬ ‫ﺑﺈﻋﺘﺒﺎر‬ ‫اﻻ‬ ‫اﻟﻌﻠﻢ‬.‫ا‬ ‫ﺬا‬ ‫اﻟﻐﺎﻳﺔ‬ ‫أﻣﺎ‬‫ﻫﻲ‬ ‫ﻟﺒﺤﺚ‬
‫اﻇﻬﺎ‬‫ﻛﲑﻻ‬ ‫وﻻﻳﺔ‬ ‫ﰱ‬ ‫اﻷردوﻳﺔ‬ ‫ﺗﺄﺛﲑ‬ ‫ر‬،‫اﻷردوﻳﺔ‬ ‫ﺑﺎﻟﻠﻐﺔ‬ ‫اﻻ‬ ‫ﺗﺘﻢ‬ ‫ﻻ‬ ‫ﻛﲑﻻ‬ ‫ﺛﻘﺎﻓﺔ‬ ‫ﻳﺦ‬‫ر‬‫ﺗﺎ‬ ‫ﻷن‬.ّ‫ﻠ‬‫ﻟ‬‫و‬‫ﻐﺔ‬
‫ﻛﲑﻻ‬ ‫ﰱ‬ ‫ﺛﻨﻴﺔ‬ ‫ﻳﺦ‬‫ر‬‫ﺗﺎ‬ ‫اﻷردوﻳﺔ‬‫ﺣﻴﺚ‬‫وﺳﺎدات‬ ‫ﺳﺎﻣﻮدرى‬ ‫ﳑﻠﻜﺔ‬ ‫اﺟﺘﻤﻊ‬ ‫ﻣﺎ‬ ‫ﻋﻨﺪ‬ ‫ﺗﺎرﳜﻬﺎ‬ ‫ﺗﺒﺪأ‬
‫ﻗﻴﺘﻬﺎ‬‫ﺮ‬‫وﺗ‬ ‫ﻟﻨﻤﻮﻫﺎ‬ ‫اﻷردوﻳﺔ‬ ‫ﻛﺎت‬‫ﺣﺮ‬.‫و‬‫ﺗﻄﻠﻊ‬‫ﻟﻠﻐ‬ ‫ﻛﻞ‬‫أر‬ ‫ﻣﻠﻮك‬ ‫ﻣﺴﺎﳘﺎت‬ ‫اﱃ‬ ‫اﺳﺔ‬‫ر‬‫اﻟﺪ‬ ‫ﻫﺬﻩ‬‫اﻷردوﻳﺔ‬ ‫ﺔ‬،
‫ﻣﻼﺣﻈﺔ‬ ‫اﳍﻨﺪﻳﺔ‬ ‫اﻷﻏﻨﻴﺔ‬‫و‬ ‫ﻼت‬‫ا‬‫و‬ ‫اﻟﻐﺰل‬‫و‬ ‫اﻟﺸﻌﺮ‬ ‫ﻣﺜﻞ‬ ‫اﻷردوﻳﺔ‬ ‫اﻟﺒﻼﻏﻴﺔ‬ ‫ﺻﻮر‬ ‫ﻳﻼﺣﻆ‬ ‫اﻟﺒﺎﺣﺚ‬‫و‬
‫دﻗﻴﻘﺔ‬،‫وﻻﻳﺔ‬ ‫ﰱ‬ ‫اﻷردوﻳﺔ‬ ‫اﻟﻠﻐﺔ‬ ‫ﻳﺦ‬‫ر‬‫ﺗﺎ‬ ‫ﻧﻮرو‬ ‫اﻟﺬﻳﻦ‬ ‫اﳊﺎذﻗﲔ‬ ‫ﻳﻦ‬‫ﺮ‬‫اﳌﺎﻫ‬ ‫ﺗﱪﻋﺎت‬ ‫اﱃ‬ ‫ﻳﻄﻠﻊ‬ ‫أﻧﻪ‬ ‫ﻣﻊ‬
‫ﻛﲑﻻ‬.

6. IV
kw{Klw
]e I-em km-ln-Xy cq-]-§fpw hnÚm- im-J-I-fpw
tI-c-f-¡m-sc [-y-am-¡n-bn-«p-−v. G-sXm-cp hn-Úm
imJ-sb Ip-dn¨pw NÀ-¨ sN-¿p-t¼mgpw A-Xn-sâ D-d-hn-Sw,
IS-¶v h-c-hv, A-Xn-Po-hw, A-Xp-−m¡n-b kzm-[o-w C-
hI-sf Ip-dn-¨v {]-Xn-]m-Zn-¡m-sX NÀ-¨-b-h-km-n-¡p-¶-Xv D-
Nn-X-aÃ. C-¯-c-¯n-sem-cp km-ln-Xy-im-J-bm-b DÀ-Zp `m-j-
bp-sS tI-c-fo-b ]-cn-kc-s¯ Ip-dn-¨m-Wv F-sâ K-th-j-
Ww. -Ay kwØm- `m-jbm-b DÀ-Zp tI-c-f-¯n th-cp-
]n-Sn-¡m³ I-f-sam-cp-¡n-b {_n-«o-jv hn-tcm-[n-Ifm-b km-aq-
Xn-cn-am-cpw,Iq-sS n-¶ DÀ-Zp hn-`m-Khpw ]-c-kv]-cw ssI-
tImÀ-¡p-¶n-S-¯m-Wv tI-c-f-¯n DÀ-Zp-hnâ B-cw-`w Ip-dn-
¡p-¶Xv. `m-j-bp-sS hnim-e `q-an-I-bn A-d-¡Â cm-P hw-
i-¯n-sâ ]-¦p-Ifpw NÀ-¨-bn k-Po-h-amWv. Xp-SÀ-¶v h-
¶ I-hn-X, KkÂ, am-K-kn³, hn-hÀ-¯w, ln-µp-Øm-o
kw-Ko-Xw Xp-S-§n-b D-À-Zp km-ln-Xy cq-]§-sf ]-cn-N-b-s¸-
Sp-¯p-¶-tXm-Sp Iq-sS DÀ-Zp `mj-¡v _r-l¯m-b kw-`m-h-
ÂIn-b a-l-Xv hy-ànI-sf Ip-dn¨pw tI-c-f ]mT-]p-kv-
X-I-§-fn-sebpw {]-kn-²oI-c-W ta-J-e-bn-sebpw D-À-Zp
kw-kv-Imc-s¯ Ip-dn-¨p-am-Wv F-sâ K-th-j-Ww ap-t¶m-«v
t]m-Ip-¶Xv.

7. V
APPROVAL PAGE
I certify that I have supervised and read this study and that in my opinion it conforms
to acceptable standards of scholarly presentation and is fully adequate, in scope and
quality, as a dissertation for the degree of Master in Islamics and Human Sciences
(Department of Daʿwa and Comparative Religion)
ALI MOULAWI IRINGALUR
Supervisor
I certify that this dissertation was submitted to the department of Daʿwa and
Comparative Religion and is accepted as a fulfilment of the requirements for the
award of degree of Master in Islamics and Human Sciences (Daʿwa and Comparative
Religion)
ALI MOULAWI IRINGALUR
Head, Department of Daʿwa
And Comparative Religion

8. VI
DECLARATION
I do hereby declare that this dissertation is the result of my own research, except
where otherwise stated. I also declare that it has not been previously or concurrently
submitted as a whole for any other degrees at DHIU or other institution
RIYASUDHEEN CU
AD NO: 2882
CHEMBRAYOOR PUTHEN PEEDIKAYIL HOUSE, (PO) KADANGODE, (PIN) 680 584,
(VIA) ERUMAPPETTY (DT) THRISSUR
Tel No: 9633 120 897
E-mail: riyaschembrayoor@gmail.com
Signature Date:

9. VII
DARUL HUDA ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY KERALA, INDIA
DECLARATION OF COPYRIGHT AND AFFIRMATION OF
FAIR USE OF UNPUBLISHED RESEARCH
Copyright © 2014 by RIYASUDHEEN CU
All rights reserved.
URDU HERAITAGE IN KERALA
No part of this unpublished research may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval
system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical,
photocopying, recording or otherwise without prior written permission of the
copyright holder except as provided below:
1. Any material contained in or derived from this unpublished research
may only be used by others in their writing with due acknowledgement.
2. DHIU or its library will have the right to make transmit copies (print
of electronic) for institutional and academic purposes.
3. The DHIU library will have the right to make, store in a retrieval
system and supply copies of this unpublished research if requested by other
universities and research libraries.
Affirmed by RIYASUDHEEN CU
Signature Date

10. VIII
This Study is dedicated to My Beloved Parents; Ramla and Usman, the Source of
My Inspiration.
My Brother Nizar and Niyas, My Sister Rashida,
And to My Spiritual Guardians and Well-wishers in DHDC and DHIU.

11. IX
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
In the name of Allah, Full of Compassion, Ever Compassionate.
All praises be to Allah the Lord of the Universe. Let His regards and salutations be
upon the Holy Prophet MuÍammad and his family and companions.
For the completion of this thesis, I would like to thank my respected guide Ustad Ali
moulavi, Iringalloor for having given generously of his precious time, guidance and
moral support. I wish to express my special gratitude to Dr. K.M Bahahudheen
Hudawi for his valuable suggestions and critical assessment. I am much indebted to
K.P shamusdheen Tirurkkad for the tireless support he extended to me throughout my
research and for opening a new window of knowledge in front of me.
I wish to express the deepest gratitude to Darul Hidaya Da’wa College,Manoor, where
I pursued my studies more than a decade, for sponsoring my study. My
acknowledgements would be incomplete if I did not extend the token of appreciation
to all my teachers, well-wishers, friends and students in Darul Huda Islamic
University.
May Allah, the almighty, bestow His rewards and blessings on them all.
Finally, I state that I am alone responsible for the entire faults that remain in this
thesis. May Allah accept this humble attempt and make it fruitful for this life and
hereafter, ÓmÊn.

12. X
TABLE OF CONTENT
ABSTRACT........................................................................................................................ II
ABSTRACT IN ARABIC ...................................................................................................... III
ABSTRACT IN MALAYALAM .............................................................................................IV
APPROVAL PAGE..............................................................................................................V
DECLARATION.................................................................................................................VI
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ..................................................................................................... IX
CHAPTER ONE.................................................................................................................. 1
INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................ 1
1.1 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM........................................................................................ 3
1.2 RESEARCH QUESTIONS..................................................................................................... 3
1.3 RESEARCH OBJECTIVES..................................................................................................... 3
1.4 SCOPE OF THE RESEARCH ................................................................................................ 4
1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RESEARCH .................................................................................... 4
1.6 LITERATURE REVIEW........................................................................................................ 4
1.7 METHODOLOGY OF THE RESEARCH................................................................................. 5
CHAPTER TWO................................................................................................................. 6
THE ORIGIN AND GROWTH OF URDU LANGUAGE IN INDIA................................................ 6
2.1 ORIGIN AND DEVELOPMENT OF URDU LANGUAGE ........................................................ 6
2.2 THE EMERGENCE OF URDU IN KERALA.......................................................................... 10
2.2.1 Sufis......................................................................................................................... 14
2.2.2 Aadil Shah................................................................................................................ 14
2.2.3 Mysore Sultans........................................................................................................ 15
2.2.4 Arakkad Nawabs...................................................................................................... 17
2.2.5 Kachimeman Family................................................................................................ 18
2.2.6 Hanafies of Kasaragode and Kozhikode.................................................................. 19
2.2.7 East India Company................................................................................................. 22
2.2.8 Movements and Organizations for Urdu Language................................................ 23
2.2.8.1 Khilafat Movement .............................................................................................. 23
2.2.8.2 Anjumane Islahullisan.......................................................................................... 25
2.2.8.3Anjumane Tharaqqiyye Urdu................................................................................ 27
2.2.8.4 Anjumane Ishaate Urdu ....................................................................................... 28

13. XI
2.2.8.5 Bazme Hasanath or Urdu Prachar Sabha............................................................. 29
2.2.8.6 Urdu Development Association........................................................................... 30
2.2.8.7 Kerala Urdu Teachers Association ....................................................................... 30
2.2.8.8 All Kerala College Urdu Teachers’ Union ............................................................. 32
2.2.9 Educational Institutions .......................................................................................... 32
2.2.9.1 Palli Dars........................................................................................................... 34
2.2.9.2 Malappuram Govt: High School....................................................................... 35
2.2.9.3 Telechery Brennen College .............................................................................. 36
2.2.9.4 Feroke College................................................................................................. 36
2.2.9.5 Malappuram Govt: College.............................................................................. 37
2.2.9.3 Sir Sayyid College, Taliparamba.......................................................................37
2.2.9.6 Darul Huda Islamic University.......................................................................... 38
2.2.9.7 Other Institutions............................................................................................. 38
2.2.9.7.1 Malabar Special Police .............................................................................. 39
CHAPTER THREE............................................................................................................. 40
URDU LITERATURES IN KERALA....................................................................................... 40
3.1 POETRY........................................................................................................................... 40
3.1.1 Arakkal Dynasty....................................................................................................... 46
3.1.2 Memen Family ........................................................................................................ 46
3.1.3 Some Urdu Poets In Kerala ..................................................................................... 47
3.2 INDIVIDUAL CONTRIBUTIONS ........................................................................................ 48
3.2.1 Sayyid Sanaullah Makthi Thangal............................................................................ 48
3.2.2 Chalilakath Kunchahammed Haji ............................................................................ 50
3.2.3 Malayam kulathel marakkar musliyar..................................................................... 50
3.2.4 T Ubaid.................................................................................................................... 51
3.2.5 Sayyid Muhammad Sarver ...................................................................................... 51
3.2.6 M.N.Sathyarthi........................................................................................................ 52
3.2.7 K. Ravivarma............................................................................................................ 52
3.2.8 Zulaika Husain......................................................................................................... 52
3.2.9 Valapattanam Abdulla............................................................................................. 54
3.2.10 Abdul kareem Akthar settu................................................................................... 54
3.2.11 Musa Nasih............................................................................................................ 55
3.2.12 Muhammad Ishaq................................................................................................. 55

14. XII
3.2.13 TK Abdulla ............................................................................................................. 56
3.2.14 Abdussamad Samadani......................................................................................... 56
3.2.14.1 Iqbal in kerala................................................................................................. 57
3.2.15 Shamsudhin Thirurkkad ........................................................................................ 60
3.2.16 Abdul hameed Master .......................................................................................... 62
3.3 PUBLICATIONS................................................................................................................ 62
3.3.1 Payaam Publication................................................................................................. 64
3.4 MUSIC............................................................................................................................. 65
3.5 TRANSLATIONS FROM URDU TO MALAYALAM AND VICE VERSA.................................. 65
3.5.1 Raza Foundation...................................................................................................... 66
CHAPTER FOUR.............................................................................................................. 67
CURRENT STATUS OF URDU LANGUAGE IN KERALA......................................................... 67
4.1 OBSTACLES CONFRONTED BY URDU LANGUAGE AND ITS SOLUTIONS......................... 67
4.2 FUTURE OF URDU........................................................................................................... 68
4.3 SOLUTION FOR PROPAGANDA....................................................................................... 69
CONCLUSION ................................................................................................................. 72
Bibliography .................................................................................................................. 74

15. 1
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
Language is the most important aspect of culture. It is the dominant future in
determining nationality or ethnicity, it is the binding force that unites a people and
makes them distinct from others. Language presents a people’s heritage and identity.
Man is a social animal and he uses the language to exchange media, but that formed
through the continuous usages.
Language is not only medium for communication, but also a historical
milestone. It is the prime factor which joined the mankind, helped to interact with
their historical and cultural transactions and thus the study of language is the first
lesson in history. And is also the first and prime window open to acquisition of
knowledge.
Urdu is popular language used by Muslims after Arabic in the world and also
official language of Pakistan. Majority of Muslims in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and
many other countries are speaking Urdu, and it is the mixture of ten languages many
words of Urdu language derived from Farsi, Arabic, Sanskrit, Hindi, and other
languages.
Muslim sultanates in India have cosmic role in the development of Urdu
language especially in the period of Mughal Empire. Urdu has more influence in the
life style of Muslims and their development because Urdu can join and connect
between the Muslims. But Urdu language didn’t influence in Kerala.

16. 2
Urdu is a language, originated in India, and achieved great influence among
world languages. The main reason of this prosperity was its literary grace and cultural
well being. Urdu is the national language of Pakistan and second language of
Bangladesh.
Kerala, in the southern part of India is home for people believing in various
world religions such as Islam, Hinduism, Christianity and Judaism… etc. All of them
use their mother tongue Malayalam in day to day transactions. So, in such like state
Urdu education and its progress is very difficult, because here Muslims or non-
Muslims don’t use Urdu language as mother tongue. But, today Urdu language has
spread along and improved much in Kerala. Now a day’s thousands of students study
Urdu languages in their schools and other educational sectors when a team of teachers
are engaged in educating them.
In about16th
century, Urdu language was emerged in Kerala. Calicut ruler
Samuthiri (Zamorins) sought the help of Sultan of Bijapur Adhil Shah against the
Portugal invasion. Aftermath war, some of the soldiers remained here. Their mother
tongue was Urdu and it affected the language of Kerala. Tippu Sultan paved the way
for progress and spreading of Urdu language in this province.
In short, Sufis and rulers of Bijapure and Mysore played important role for the
growth of Urdu language and literature in Kerala along with some Urdu speaking
family like Kachi Meman. After 19th
century, Islamic colleges and institutions helped
in the spreading of Urdu language in Kerala.

17. 3
1.1 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
Urdu got importance in Kerala; there are discussions of Urdu heritage in Kerala and
all over India. It's regretful that when UPA government proclaimed fund for Urdu ITI,
Kerala government lapsed it. See that there are departments, even for Russian
languages in Calicut University, but there is no special department for Urdu language.
It is pleasing that now the state government has determined to establish Urdu
Academy. Many historical, cultural and social factors were caused for the emerging of
Urdu language in Kerala. The researcher is proposed to describe all these factors in
this work.
1.2 RESEARCH QUESTIONS
1) What is the historical back ground of Urdu in Kerala?
2) What are the major contributions?
3) What is the current status of the Urdu language?
4) What are the obstacle of the Urdu language and its solutions?
5) What is the role of Islamic colleges in preaching of Urdu in Kerala?
1.3 RESEARCH OBJECTIVES
1) To prove importance of Urdu language and its obstacle before its expansion
2) To explain the origin and growth of Urdu language in Kerala
3) To highlight major contributions
4) To discuss current states of Urdu education
5) To find out preaching of Urdu language in Kerala

18. 4
1.4 SCOPE OF THE RESEARCH
Although the researcher had confined his study in some areas in his topic “Urdu
Heritage in Kerala” he has tried to include major parts like the coming of Urdu in
Kerala, preaching of Urdu literature, contribution of the Kerala to this language. In
spite of obstacles and impediments when we discuss its current status, I took as
challenge for my best future.
1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RESEARCH
We must develop new parading tool for the preaching of Urdu language in Kerala.
The future lies in the hands of the governments, Urdu scholars, and Urdu language
scholars, this study will help to achieve a large influence among Urdu lovers, and
useful for new generation. I will make my best to keep my word, because it is crucial
matter upon me.
1.6 LITERATURE REVIEW
There is no authentic study in this subject, but found some modern research students
have written commentaries on it. Hashim, a research scholar, in Annamala University
wrote an article in the topic “Urdu education at the school level in Kerala, since
independence” and this study was just about the coming of Urdu in Kerala, some lines
from his study: - Years ago, Kerala comprised three regions Malabar, Cochin and
Travancore which constituted Malayalam speaking belt in all India. Urdu made its
inroads in Kerala from the coastal area of the Malabar. In the 16th
century, Bijapuri
ruler of the Adil Shah dynasty sent forces to stop the Portuguese in order to help of
Samuthiri Raja the local ruler. These soldiers settled in Calicut after the end of

19. 5
hostilities. They used Urdu as their mother tongue. The Urdu got an entry in the
Malayalam lexicon. This is how Urdu got gradually established in Kerala1
.
But Hashim didn’t explain its various topics like Urdu literature in Kerala, its
contributions, current status and obstacle of Urdu language in Kerala. Recently some
scholars wrote articles like Shamsudheen Tirurkkad “Kerala me Urdu Duniya” in
Etemad Urdu daily, and MA Bakathuni wrote an article “Urdu language and Kannur”
in Kannur souvenir (Darul Hasnath College, 2013, chief editor Sayed Hasim Kunchi
Koya Thangal). These announces that Kerala has great Urdu heritage, so we have to
discuss its various areas in depth and authentic.
A recent study is by Rabeehath who completed a study on Urdu in
Malappuram District as a part of his study in Malappuram College. This work covered
almost all part of this language in Malappuram. Still there a wide gap to fill when we
look to Urdu heritage in Kerala.
1.7 METHODOLOGY OF THE RESEARCH
It is very clear, that Urdu language came to Kerala by the effect from the troops of
Adil shah in Bijapur. In the 16th
century, Arakkad Navabs also caused for the
spreading of the Urdu language in Kerala. First of all we have to understand its pros
and cons; therefore I planned to meet famous scholar Shamsudheen Tirurkad. I under
took more useful and straight steps to complete this mission, and get more references.
The researcher will also from available studies in next.
1
Language in India. www.languageinindia.com, Hashim.M.H, 11: 11 November 2011, Urdu Education
at the School Level in Kerala since Independence.

20. 6
CHAPTER TWO
THE ORIGIN AND GROWTH OF URDU LANGUAGE IN INDIA
In this chapter, the researcher wants to discus about the formation of Urdu and its
expansion among people as a language. The Urdu copied many words from Farsi,
Arabic, Hindi, Sanskrit, and other language. The Muslim rulers have a big role in the
development of Urdu language in India.
2.1 ORIGIN AND DEVELOPMENT OF URDU LANGUAGE
Urdu is the language, which included in the languages of constitution. The Urdu
language which had attracted with its beauty, had great influence in the heritage of
India and helped to grew religious harmony.
According to UNESCO census in 2007, Urdu is the third speaking language in
the world. 52 million people speaking Urdu in India.
Urdu language originated in India, Urdu word means Army camp, Army, and
the word took from Turkish language. Urdu is family member of Indo- Aryan
language; there are lot of contradictions in its birth time and place.
Mr. Amman Dahalavi opine that in his book “Bago Bahar”, that Urdu
language was born in the time of Akbar Sultan and well developed in the time of
Shajahan .

21. 7
Moulana Mohammed Hussain Asad wrote in his book “Abe Hayath”: The
Urdu language which originated from language has completed its existence in the age
of Shajahan Sultan2
.
Muhammad Sheerani opines that origin of Urdu language was in Punjab. As
the result of mixing between Hindi, Arabic, and Persian languages in military camps
of Delhi and Aqrab was main reason to form Urdu language, this opinion is valuable
one.
When Wali Mohammed Wali arrived in Delhi, he established Hindustani with
a light smattering of Persian words, a register called Rekhta, for poetry; previously the
language of poetry had been Persian. When the Delhi Sultanate expanded south to the
Deccan plateau, they carried their literary language with them, and it was influenced
there by more southerly languages producing the Dakin dialect of Urdu3
Masood Hussain opines that Urdu language originated in Delhi and its
surroundings. There is no contradiction in this statement, which Urdu language
originated after the coming of Muslims to India.
Even there is lot of grammar similarities between Urdu and Hindi. Hindi
accepted the technical words from Persia and Arabic languages. Urdu got its secular
tradition from Persian literature. Almost Urdu alphabets borrowed from Arabic. In 35
alphabets, 28 form Arabic, 4 from Persian and three Alphabets were created for Urdu
language.
2
Traiq rahman.from Hindi to Urdu, social and political history (New Delhi: orient Black Swan private
limited, 2011) 80-83.
3
www.wikipedia.com/ Urdu.

22. 8
Farsi language was authentically used by early scholars in India.Some
legitimate writings of Sheikh Ahmad Sarhindi and Shah Waliyullahi Dahlavi in Farsi
language is an exactitude evidence for this fact. Myriad oppositions still exists as
mysterious about the emergence of Urdu language among Hindu society; those were
peculiar with Sanskrit, Telung, and Kannada language only throughout their late.
According to acceptable opinion, Urdu language is being in addition with Hindu-
Muslim integration. Prominent poet “Malal” states that this integration in Durbar of
Akbar emperor designed for a new linguistic culture.4
The early mode of Urdu language was Dakhni. In last time 13th
century, when
the force attack from north India effected well over the south Indian politics, Urdu
language were quickly spread in Deccan. Dahakins called the language which
emerged from Delhi as “Thur ka Matha” (language of Muslims).with the beginning of
1807, Deccan was completely subjugated by Mughal empire. This opened a new way
for the highly growth of Urdu language.5
The language went by several names over the years; Hindawi or
Hindi,(language of India) ;Dehlavi(of Delhi);Hindustani, (hindustan);and Zuban-e-
Urdu,(the language of the Army camp), from which came the current name of Urdu
around the year 1880.
Urdu language developed under the influence of Persian, Arabic, and turkey
over the course of almost 900years. It began to take shape in what is now Uttar
4
Islamika vikjana kosham, (Kozhikode: IPh Islamic publishing house)-vol-6.p; 670.
5
Ibd,p:671-672

23. 9
Pradesh, India during the Delhi Sultanate (1206-1527), and continued to develop
under the Mughal Empire (1526-1858).6
British were very interested in Urdu education to comfort administration of
India. They realized that regional language is must be studied to interact with ordinary
people. As the result of idea, in 1800, British government established Fort William
College in Calcutta and appointed John Ghilcrist as principal. The contribution of
William Fort College was more than enough. Urdu language has got more progress in
pros and poet.
In Asnafe Sugan group, Nazam, Gazal,Rubaee, Qasidha, Masnavi,Marziaya,
are more important types,In afsane Nasari(prose groups), Kahani(story), Naval(novel),
Inshaeyya(), Dasthan(), Safarnama(travelogue), drama(drama),are more important
types. The myriad of Urdu books indicates its resource abundance. Urdu books
translated into various languages like Malayalam7
.
At present, Knjanapeedam award got for Urdu litterateurs like Firaq
Govakpuri, Qurrathul Ain Hyder, Ali Sardar Jafari, and Shahariyar. Urdu poetry had
influenced the hearts among other world languages, the well accepted and popularized
poet was Allama Muhammad Iqbal, his heart touching line like “Sare Jahan Se Ache”
touched lips of all Indians, and this indicates its literary grace and beauty. Like Allam
Muhammed Iqbal, Mir Thaqi Mir, Mirza Ghalib and Josh Mali Habadi are popular
poets in Urdu language8
.
6
Traiq rahman.from Hindi to Urdu, social and political history (New Delhi: orient Black Swan private
limited, 2011) P: 23-28.
7 7
Noushad Rahmani, Urdu: lalitha Sunnaramaya Basha, Suprabatham News paper, 9, November,
2014.p:4
8
K.T Jamaludheen, Urdu: Samsakrika Samannaythinte Basha, Thejus daily news paper, 8, November,
2014, p: 3.

24. 10
The Sufis have great role in the spreading of Urdu language. They used Urdu
language as media for Islamic propagation. Khaja Muaeenudheen Jisthi®,Khaja
Bandhe Navas agsudhras®, Hazrath Nizamudheen Auliya® and Sheikh
Rasheedudheen Shakar Kanj® are main Sufis.9
Some wrong statements existing, that Urdu language only for Muslims, but
Urdu is the common language of India. We can see lot of non-Muslims in Urdu
literature, like Prem Chand, Mulk Raj Anand, Kishar Chandhar, Firaq, and Narayan
Chak Chasth. The Urdu has position as a regional language in Kashmir, Bihar, Delhi,
UtharPradesh, Seemandhara, and and Telungana. Urdu got more influence in India,
Urdu couldn’t get influence as a regional language in Kerala, but its indications
reached in early times10
.
2.2 THE EMERGENCE OF URDU IN KERALA
Kerala in the southern part of India is home for people believing in various religions
such as Islam, Hinduism, Christianity, Judaism, and etc. All of them use Malayalam
language in day to day transactions. Newspapers are published in one and only
language for one and all of them.
So, in such like state Urdu education and its progress is very difficult, because
here Muslims or non-Muslims don’t use Urdu language as mother tongue. But today
Urdu language is very spread and improved in Kerala. Now days, lakh of students
study Urdu language in their schools and thousands of Urdu teachers are teaching
them.
9
Ibd, P’: 3.
10
Noushad Rahmani, Urdu: lalitha Sunnaramaya Basha, Suprabatham News paper, 9, November,
2014.p:4

25. 11
Many researchers and authors opine that Urdu language had reached in Kerala
just after its (Urdu) formation. Many historical cultural and social factors were caused
for the emerging of Urdu language in Kerala.
Great Hameedullah Sahib had said about Urdu, which was modern Indian
language. As an answer, some are saying that its origin is Punjab, Delhi native persons
are saying it’s from Delhi, and Hyderabad persons are arguing it’s from Hyderabad,
but really it was born by the merging of Muslims and Hindus. Its main cause goes to
the industrial relation between Malabar and Hyderabad, Punjab and other north Indian
states. Many of such merchants had stayed at there and here for years. Communication
between Malayalam speaking Kerala people and Urdu based merchants.this
intermixing reached into another heritage.
The history elucidates that the spread of Urdu language in Kerala occurred by
the widely interference of Mysore Sultans by bringing eminent scholars to Malabar.
Urdu language changed to a cultural language of Kerala, when Hyder who was highly
talented in Urdu, conquered Malabar in 18th
century. Tipu Sultan builds up a
Hindustani press of Shree Rangapattanam in Mysore and distributed all orders from
government which were printed from here to several parts of Kerala. All soldiers and
civil service officers under Mysore Sultans used Urdu language in their mutual
communications. These officers came to Kerala and settled in Calicut, Thalassery,
Kanuur, Kasarkode, and Uppala. In such times all merchants in these locations were
used Urdu language.11
In about 16th
centaury Urdu language was emerged in Kerala. Calicut ruler
Samuthiri sought the help of Bijapur sultan Adhilsha against the Portugal invasion.
11
Islamika vikjana kosham, (Kozhikode: IPh Islamic publishing house)-vol-6.p:676.

26. 12
After the war, some of the army remained here. Their mother tongue was Urdu. This
affected the language of Kerala. Tipu sultan paved the way for progress and spreading
of Urdu language in Kerala12
.
In short, Kachimaman family, Sufis, Adhilshah, Hanafis of Kaserkode, and
Mysore rulers were played important role for the growth of Urdu language and
literature in Kerala. After 19th
century, Arabic colleges and institutions also helped for
the spreading of Urdu language in Kerala.
Unlike other states of India, Kerala (Urdu is not its mother tongue) have
suitable chances for Urdu language .A few people know that lakh of students are
studying Urdu language in school level and thousands of Urdu studied scholars are
teaching them in schools.
Urdu education in school level was started in Kerala before independence
(1947). But Urdu education had to force some bad conditions in the ways of its
improvement and spreading. After the independence and partition of India to Pakistan
and India in 1497, Urdu language was treated very suspiciously and doubtfully.
In the time educational minister CH Muhammed Koya, Urdu became very
active in schools. Today, Urdu is teaching in 1600 schools, and included in the
syllabus of Arabic colleges and Dars, this is another achivement of Urdu. In college
level, Urdu firstly started in Brenan College Thalassery, in1888, British men Eduard
Brenan established this college for English education.
The central government established National Council for Promotion of Urdu
language (NCPUL) and conducting Urdu diploma courses in various parts of Kerala.
12
K.P Shamsudheen, Tirurkkad, Kerala Me Urdu Ki Aamad, the Munsif Daily, Hyderabad, 12, August,
2004.

27. 13
The Malayalam language got lot of words from Urdu language like “Ingilab
Sindabad, Murdabad, Sarkar, Kdhar, Mittayi, Nastha, Maythanam, Japthi, etc,).MP
Abdussamad Samadani has great role in the spreading of Urdu language, and another
important reasons were organizations. The birth date of Allama Muhammed Iqbal
celebrating as Urdu day, he died on 0877 november9, in Sialkot.13
There are four important factors helped for the growth of Urdu langauge in 19th
centuary. They are:
1) Orgainsations like Anjuman-e- Islahullisan and arabic colleges under religious
leaders and social reformers.
2) Political move ments like Kilafath movement
3) Dakistan Bharatiya Hindi Prachara sabha in literal level.
4) Movements and organisation under government and with peoples’ participation14
.
According to the census of 1981, there are 17, 00 people speaking Urdu in Kerala.
This is twice of Urdu speakers in Kashmir. There are 2000 teachers teaching Urdu in
Various 1500 institution. Every year, above 7000 students are writing Urdu exam in
SSLC in Kerala. Urdu programmes had importence in the state school youth festival.
2% seats were ready for Urdu minorities in all courses in Bernan College, Telechery.
There are active participants from Kerala for all India Urdu conventions and seminars.
13
Noushad Rahmani, Urdu: lalitha Sunnaramaya Basha, Suprabatham News paper, 9, November,
2014.p:4.
14
Islamika vikjana kosham, (Kozhikode: IPh Islamic publishing house)-vol-6, p: 675.

28. 14
There are many institutions making the students ready for Urdu exams of high
universities like Calicut University and Kalady University15
.
2.2.1 Sufis
Valapattanam and Kondotty are main regions in the history of Urdu language in
Kerala. In 1480, famous and eminent Sufi Sayyid Ahmad Jalaludhin Bukhari arrived
to Valapattanam of Malabar from Persia. As well, Urdu scholar and prominent Sufi
Sayyid Muhammad shah Thangal came to Kondotty in Malabar from Kalyan near
Bombay. Their communication language was Urdu16
.After them many Urdu activities
rose from these places Valapattanam Abdulla was one of them.
2.2.2 Aadil Shah
Adil Shahis, who were ruled in Bijapur in about 1489, were maintained good
relationship with local rulers of Kerala. In 1949 Vasco Di Gama embarked his ship,
after this, Portugal men gradually started looting and killing poor’s of Kerala.
Kozhikode ruler Raja Samuthiri defended them by replaying for their attacks by the
attacking them in sea and coastal areas. Portugal men under Vasco Di Gama who
came here to conquer by the naval army of Samuthiri Raja, and naval was included
fully by the Muslims of Malabar, because the Hindus were in this time prohibited by
their belief from working in sea. The navy was under brave Muslim young kunjali
Marakkar. In this leadership they defended Portugal army from the coastal area of
Kozhikode.
15
K.P Shamsudheen Tirurkkad, Kerala me Urdu Thaleem, (School Sathah Par), Urdu Duniya, August,
2006.P:14-17.
16
Islamika vikjana kosham, (Kozhikode: IPh Islamic publishing house)-vol-6, p: 675.

29. 15
Samuthiri Raja sought the help of Adhil Shah, ruler of Bijapur against Portugal
invasion. Bijapur king Adhi Sha sent an army under the leadership of Quadi Malik
Iyas. They helped the army of Kunjali Marakkar against Portugal attack in the sea and
coast. They recaptured the Chaliyam fort from the hands of Portugal army. After the
defense and attacks, remaining army under Quadi Malik Iyas lived here. They began
to mingle with Kerala people. Their culture influenced in Kerala. So, Urdu language
began to influence Kerala people through them.
2.2.3 Mysore Sultans
In 8th
century, Mysore rulers conquered western coastal areas. In 1757, Mysore army
under Urdu school and King Hyder Ali came to Malabar. Their mother tongue was
Urdu language. But they made treaty with Kozhikode ruler Raja Samuthiri and they
withdrew to Mysore as Samuthiri Raja agreed in the treaty. In 1766 Hyder Ali came
again to Malabar and conquered it. In 1773, he established his rule in Malabar. From
here Urdu language spread all over the Kerala state. Mysore army who came to
Malabar was lived here with their family. Many of them married from here and
prepared their family life here. Their language’s influence was very strong in
Malayalam language17
.
After Hyder Ali’s demise Tipu Sultan became the ruler of Malabar. In this
period, many local and tribal rulers were allied with English government and began
opposing him. Tipu Sultan oppressed and suppressed these local rulers and attacked
the Englishmen. He established Hindustani press in Srirangapattanam of Mysore. He
published official government orders in Urdu and supplied in various parts of Kerala.
17
Shamsudheen tirurkkad, Kerala me Urdu, Urdu duniya, 2005 July.P:19.

30. 16
Army and civil service officers under Mysore king Tipu sultan were using Urdu
language in their day to day transactions18
.
Tipu Sultan also published a weekly for his army namely ‘Fauji Akbar’, in
Urdu language, it was included ideas about wars and attacks and essays of courage
increasing. This weekly was used by all his army.
Tipu Sultan wished to change his centre of rule from Calicut to Malappuram
(Malabar). So, Tipu Sultan changed his centre from Calicut to the coastal area of
Beypore and he established a fort there. He named that place ‘Farookhabad’ this name
after became ‘feroke’. Nowadays, it was known as Feroke19
.
There is a contradiction in the name of Farooq. In Malayalam article, the name
Farooqabad put for Kalipha Umarul Farooq®, but if we study deeply about Tiipu
Sutan, it should change.
In 1788, May, 9, Tipu Sultan and his troop landed in Baypore cost land and
proclaimed it as central for administration. that region named as Farooqabad,(the word
came from Persia to Urdu )the word Frooqiya means able place for living, lucky
place,etc. this is the real history that stated in following books
Thavareeqh(p:74),report of the joint commissioners(p:37),imperial Gazetter.vol-
12(P:8), and history of Tipu Sulatan,(The word press private lilmited , Calcutta 1962).
This book translated to Urdu by Hamidulla Afsar Atheeq Sidhiqi and published by
N.C.P.U.L New Delhi20
.
18
Islamika vikjana kosham, ( Kozhikode:IPh Islamic publishing house)-vol-6.,P;670,
19
Mappilayundaya Yathrakal Thelitcham Monthly,15thAnnual,January,20014,Darul Huda Islamic
University,Chemmad.
20
P.PMammed KoyaParapil, Faroqabadum Tipu Sultanum, (kozhikote MuslimKalude Chartithram) P:
100.

31. 17
Cochin Maharaja and his ministers were in good relation with Mysore king
Tipu Sultan. Cochin Raja started to study and teach Urdu language by their influence.
Because of this good relation between them, they get chances to teach Urdu language
in the Thripunithara palace of Cochin Maharaja. This was continued till 1942. Except
these, Urdu study was started in Munavvirul Islam High school, Kochi. Even today
also in the parts of old Cochin states like Kochi, Ernamkulam, Trichur,
Vadakkanchery and Iringalakkuda, there are many Urdu speakers21
.
In this period, besides government officers Urdu speaking traders also came
and lived in Palakkad, Perinthalmanna, Kozhikode, Thalassery, Kannur, Kasargode,
Upala and Kochi.
2.2.4 Arakkad Nawabs
Arkad Nawabs, who ruled in Tamil Nadu in 17th
century, were played important role
in preaching Urdu language and literature because their commercial language was
Urdu22
.
Arkad Nawabs were in deep relationship with Rajas of Travancore. Because of
this deep relationship between them, many Urdu speaking people of Arkad came to
Travancore for jobs and lived there. Many of them were worked in the army of
Travancore Raja. Some of them worked in maintaining and taking care of horses of
Travancore government. The old Masjid in Trivandrum was built by them and it was
known as Palayam Juma Masjid. The meaning of word the ‘Urdu’ in Malayalam is
Palayam. After, this region was known as ‘Palayam23
’.
21
Islamika vikjana kosham, ( Kozhikode:IPh Islamic publishing house)-vol-6.,P;670,
22
Shamsudheen tirurkkad, Kerala me Urdu, Urdu duniya, 2005 July.P:19.
23
K.P Shamsudheen, Tirurkkad,Kerala me jis par Urdu Duniya Baja Faqr Kar Sakthahe,The Etemaad
Urdu Daily,Hyderabad,2,april,2006,P:4.

32. 18
In 1960, Arkad Nawab Muhammad Ali got some chances in official matters of
Travancore government. Travancore Raja strengthened their mutual amity relationship
with British East India Company by the help of Arkad Nawab Muhammad Ali. East
India Company started to teach Urdu language to strengthen mutual relations with
common people of Kerala for these purpose they used this relations24
.
2.2.5 Kachimeman Family
Arabian people came to Kerala for trade before arrival of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).
They were come here through Gujarat coastal areas. This movement paved the way
for growth of relation between traders of Gujarat and Malabar. Thus, by 15th
century
meman (kachimeman) family migrated from Kach of Gujarat state to various parts and
regions of Kerala. They were speaking Urdu language25
.
The Kachimeman Family mingled and mixed with the cultural and
commercial fields of Kerala By this mixing and mingling of Kahimeman family. Their
language was also spread to Keralite peoples. They built Masjids and educational
institutions in Kochi and Alappuzha. They built a Masjid named Nurani Masjid in
Alappuzha in H 1262. The Kuthuba was in Urdu language till 1988.
Meman family from Kach in Gujarat was called Raja Keshavadas of Kerala
and he made many chances for them for trade. Dutch men came to Travancore for
trade and began to conquer it, so Raja Ramavarma made Alappuzha more ready for
them and Called people of Sindh and Gujarat for trade. These traders were commonly
Muslims. As result of this, Urdu language spread all over Travancore.
24
Islamika vikjana kosham, ( Kozhikode:IPh Islamic publishing house)-vol-6.,P;676,
25
K.P Shamsudheen, Tirurkkad,Kerala me jis par Urdu Duniya Baja Faqr Kar Sakthahe,The Etemaad
Urdu Daily,Hyderabad,2,april,2006,P:4.

33. 19
Shortly, many Urdu poets and writers came from Kachimeman family and they
spent their lives for growth of Urdu language and literature. Jannisettu and his
granddaughters Sulaikha Hussian were famous among them26
.
2.2.6 Hanafies of Kasaragode and Kozhikode
In kaserkode, Urdu speaking Hanafi followers were known as “Thurakkans”. They
were Dhakins coming from southern India. They were firstly came to there before
about 5th
centuries. In 1686, as result of attacks and captures of Mysore ruler
Aurangzeb, Dakins from Deccan and Golkonda migrated to ancient Mysore and coasts
of Karnataka27
.
It was believed that the Hanafi followers reached in Kaserkode of Kerala state
and southern Karantaka in the period of Mysore rulers. The army brought by the ruler
Hyder Ali were included Takinis, Mappilas, and Gujarathis and were lived in the parts
of Manglore28
Under Egyptian governor Suleiman Pasha, Turkey sultan sent 700 Army in 70
fleets, for the help of Calicut Samuthiri, against Portugal invasion under control of
Vasco Da Gama. Like this many Turkish armies were came to Kerala29
. Tipu sulthan
also used them in this army. They inhabited in the parts of Kaserkode like Karkkala,
Uduppi, and Kunthapuram30
.
26
Shamsudheen tirurkkad, Kerala me Urdu, Urdu duniya, 2005 July.P:19-21.
27
A .wahab Doddamane, Muslims in Dakshina Kannada: a historical study upto 1947 and survey of
recent Developments, (Green words publications, 1993), p: 129.
28
Ibd:p:49
29
K.M panikkar, Malabar and Portuguese,(London: voice of India,2007) .p:117.
30
A .wahab Doddamane, Muslims in Dakshina Kannada: a historical study upto 1947 and survey of
recent developments ,(Green words publications,1993),p:130

34. 20
It was an opinion that the Urdu language speakers in Kerala are the successors
of Padans. Padans were the group in north-west of Pakistan and south-east of
Afghanistan. They were majority of Afghanistan population. In ancient times they
only were called Afghanis. In the times between 13-16 centuries they migrated from
Afghanistan to Pakistan. Their major works were agriculture to cultivation and
herding of animals. Many of them were working in army. Some of them were
travelers and merchants.
Some historians opine that the rulers of Delhi (quthbudheen aibak- Ibrahim
Lodi) are pardans. They played important and crucial roles in the freedom wars. Their
freedom struggles under Khan Abdul Gaffar Khan were famous.
The history of Urdu languages emerging in Kerala states that Mysore Sultans
brought Urdu talking peoples from outsides to Kerala and it caused for the spreading
of Urdu language in Kerala. In 18th
century, when Mysore king Hyder Ali (Being
famous Urdu scholar) conquered Malabar, Urdu Language became talking language
of Kerala, as result of it; Tipu Sultan was also influenced for the growth of Urdu
language31
.
The main centre of Urdu speaking Hanafis living in kasarkode was at Uppala,
and there they had set up schools, Madrasas and Masjids, they had formed
organization also. Even now, some Hanafees staying in various parts of Kasergode
like kottikulam, Pallikkara,Chaettukund, Neleshwaram, Kanchangad,. This system is
mostly seen in Uppala.
31
Islamika vikjana kosham, (Kozhikode: IPh Islamic publishing house)-vol-6, p: 477.

35. 21
Thousands of Hanafies, from more than ten thousands population, stay in the
parts of Uppala. They control about ten north madrasas and Mosques themselves.
Primary education and the cultural formation of Students is perfectly conducting form
these holy places. As a highly profited educational centre they depend on Darul
Uloom Malik Deenar Islamic complex. They leave Kerala for higher study and
depend on universities in northern parts of India. They constructed a Hidustani school
in Uppala and made it as their primary educational centre. This Hindustani school is
known as first ever Urdu media U.P school in Kerala. All their cultural and religious
matters are being decided centralizing on Ahlu Sunnan Hanafi Jamia Masjid in
Uppala. All other mosques and institutions were running under this mosque32
Hanafies get their financial collection mainly from foreign money, naval job
and business in Uppala. More people work in ships as it is a traditionally transferring
job. According to the environment and north India, the life of Muslims in Uppala is in
high condition on account of over inflation of foreign money. Highly educated
scholars in religious field serve in several mosques and Madaris.
Hanafies stay mixed mode with Malaya lees in several parts like Chettukund,
Bandhiyad near to Poochakkad and far from Uppala, this causes on Hanafies to speak
in Malayalam. According to changing environment the culture and approach to the
modernity of these people were changing gradually. Also, when we turn our eyes to
past, the Urdu system in Kerala exists as an indication to whatever was occurred in the
world recently. Mainly Hanafies in Uppala is included as the member of four families
of Sayed, Sheikh, Mughal, and Pattans. In the history those decorate high position
32
Moyin Malayamma, Kasergode Muslimkalude Charithram, (Chattenchal: disa book cell(DBC) Mic
darul Irshad Accademy,2008),p;175-176

36. 22
among society and the contribution of Chavadi family is popular in the history of
freedom strike.33
The Hnafies also spread in Kozhikode. As the result of their penetration, there
was colonies like Cheriya Alingal Parambu(C.P Bazaar), east kottaparambu, east
vellayil,etc. They were experts in Urdu and Hindustani languages, Under British
government they got government job like police, etc. The government ignored them as
invaders and minorities, but they achieved lot of high positions and other rights.
They were in great quantity and prosperity, but now in weak conditions. Even
the people formed “All Kerala Dhakni Muslim federation for their social and cultural
development,” in 1956, they self established “Calicut Dakhini Muslim Jamath” and
now continuing its process. This organization is conducting activities for Urdu
language propagation and welfare activities. The established a capital in Nadakkavu.
In this building Urdu subahi Makthab School running under Calicut Dakhini Jamath.
Now they following and planning for promote Urdu language under Anjuman Tharqi
Urdu.34
2.2.7 East India Company
East India Company was firstly come to India for trade and commercial needs. But
gradually they changed their planning and tried their best to capture their lands of
India.
There are historical evidences for the implementation of law to study all
British officers the Urdu language, it was interfer deeply with the common people
because they were came here to capture the lands on the name of trade and commerce.
33
Islamika vikjana kosham, (Kozhikode: IPh Islamic publishing house)-vol-6, p: 476.
34
P.P Mammed Koya Parappil, Kozhikode Hnafikal,(Kozhikode Muslimkaklude Charithram),P:240-242.

37. 23
In 1677 December 22, court of directors of East India company in Madras sent a letter
writing in it a proclamation that if any one of English officers study Persian language
he will get 10 pounds and if any one study Hindustani Urdu Language he will get 20
pounds as a gift. The letter was to the st. Jeorge court in madras.
The Urdu language was spread out and Urdu speakers came in Kerala in the
period of Tipu Sultan, but when East India Company get the control in Malabar, they
brought many Urdu speaking Urdu officers from Bombay to help the officers who try
to study Urdu language. They were known as ‘Munshis’. There was a region known as
‘Munshu Mahalla’ near old Malabar collectorate.
The Fort William College in Calcutta, which was established by the British
East India Company to teach its workers the Urdu language, was important in the
history of Urdu language. In 1979, a powerful English troop under East India
company captain Wacker camped and as a result of this Urdu language spread in
Tirurangadi.35
2.2.8 Movements and Organizations for Urdu Language
As we mentioned above there were many movements and organizations which were
helped for the growth of Urdu language and its literature.
2.2.8.1 Khilafat Movement
Khilafat Movement was famous in the history of Urdu language. Khilafath
Movements which rose all over Muslim countries against British invasion
strengthened under Ali brothers with the support of Mahatma Gandhi in India with
35
Ibd, P: 676.

38. 24
national independence movements. Majority of the national movement’s leaders were
highly educated in Urdu language.
In the period of freedom movements strengthening, national leaders visited
into Kerala. Also they held classes and spoke in Urdu language.
As a part of non- cooperation movement in 1922, central Khilafath committee
established Madrasathul Islamiyya in Valapattanam. Its syllabus was same syllabus of
Madrasathul Millayathul Islamiyya in Aligarh. It was inaugurated by Raja Gopal
Achari. Dr Sayyid Mahmud, Moulana Muhammad Ali Jouhar’s mother Bi Umma,
Sarojini Naidu, Moulana ya’qub Hassan and etc were participated in its inaugural
ceremony. Central Khilafath committee established another institution like the
Madrasathul Islamiyya of Valapattanam. All expenses of these institutions were spent
by the central Khilafath committee. The teachers of these institutions were studied
Urdu language from other states and achieved degrees from there.
The Khilafath Movements’ leaders of 1921 like Ali Musliyar and Variam
Kunnathu Muhammad Hajji were highly educated Urdu language. Ali Musliyar was
being inspired from Urdu speech of Moulana Muhammad Ali from Bombay, became
voracious readers of Urdu newspapers like ‘Hamdard. But he experienced
kunjahammed Hajji was studied Urdu language in the period of living in hide in
Bombay. But he experienced the Urdu language and Arabic language in his
pilgrimage for Hajj.
Moulana Muhammadali appointed Muhammad Abdu Rahiman Sahib and his
co-worker E Moithu Moulavi to the lead the Keralite society in religious, cultural and
political fields. Both of them were studied in Jamia’ Milliyya university which was
uses Urdu as main and official language. They lead the movements and struggles with
support of freedom struggle workers of northern India.

39. 25
Moithu Moulavi was held classes for the staff of Alameen Newspaper. Moidu
Moulavi was taught the Urdu language for the associate editor of the newspaper P.S
Gopalappilai and advertisement manager A.V Menon.
Moithu Mouilavi continued his Urdu teaching while he was in jail. Prisoners
of that time like Tharamal Krishnan, M.N Sathya Giri, K.P Chama, M.P
Narayanamenon,Appakoya Haji,Sainudheen Naina, Mattanchery were studied Urdu
language form his Jail life.
Muhammed Abdu Rahiman Sahib also interested in teaching Urdu language
for the prisoners during his living in jail. Abdu Rahiman Sahib was Urdu teacher of
Sakhar K Damodaran, K.P Gopalan,Muthu Rama Linka Thevar who was labor
minister in the first communist minstery and leader of forward block.
M. Rasheed who was son of Moithu Moulavi and famous social worker also
did precious contributions for the growth of Urdu language36
.
2.2.8.2 Anjumane Islahullisan
Anjumane islahullisan is the organization estabilished abdu sathar settu and Abdul
Kareem sett Akthar in 1931 september 5 in Telecherry aiming the preaching and
growth of Urdu language in Kerala. Its first presedent was Rhamthullah Settu and first
secretary was Abdul Kareem Akthar Settu, both of them were sons of brother of
Sathar Settu. Main patron of the organisation was Sathar Settu and Ibrahim Mahmud
Musa settu, uncle of Ibrahim Sulaiman Settu.Its main active memebers and workers
were Kachimeman family37
.
36
Ibd,p:676
37
Shamsudheen tirurkkad, Kerala me Urdu, Urdu duniya, 2005 July.P:20.

40. 26
In the period which Abdul Kareem Akhthar Settu was its general secretary,
they started publishing an Udru magazine known as “Narajeelisthan”38
. A hand
writing magazine “Cheman” and Anjuman-e Athfal students ‘ organizaton were
existed under Anjuman-e- Islahu lissan. Ibrahim sulaiman Settu was active member of
the students’ orgsnization namely Anjuman-e-Athfal. He was main prize winner of
speech and literature competition held by debating society under the organization39
.
The activity of this organisation was frozen in the period of India-Pakistan
partition. After this, Anjuman-e- Islahullisan began working properly by 1960 and
focused their attention fro the preaching of Urdu language through the universities and
educational institutions.
In 1947, the organization started Anjuman College to train the students writing
Urdu exams. They held All-Kerala Urdu convention by 1976. The convention was
five sections in two days. The convention was participated by Urdu scholars from
universities, colleges and other educational institutions from inside and outside of
Kerala.
Muhammed Yusuf Kokalan (Madrass), Dr Sayyid Anwar Ali (Batkal), Prof.
Hyderali Khan (Madrass) and Dr, Sulaiman Akthar Jareed (Andrapradesh) were
presented essays in the convention. Main committee of the convention were Ibrahim
Sulieman Settu and Prof. Muhammed Husain Shakir (Brennan College)40
.
38
MA Bakathuni, Urdu language and Kannur, Souvenir, (Kannur: Darul Hasnath Arabic College
Kannadipparamba, 2013).
39
Shamsudheen tirurkkad, goyr Urdu alaqoon me Urdu kalamkaroon ke masaael, Urdu duniya, 2008
JUNE.P:17-18.
40
K.P Shamsudheen, Tirurkkad,Kerala me jis par Urdu Duniya Baja Faqr Kar Sakthahe,The Etemaad
Urdu Daily,Hyderabad,2,april,2006,P:5.

41. 27
2.2.8.3Anjumane Tharaqqiyye Urdu
Anjumane Tharaqqiye Urdu was established as a part of Muslim educational
conference, started in 1903 January. This was known as N.P.U ( National council for
promotion of Urdu). Many branches were established under N.P.U.C in all states,
thus. Its Kerala branch was established in November 7, 1943.
Ba baye Urdu (father of Urdu) Abdul Haque was the president of formation
conference held in Himayathul Islam high school In Kozhikode. First leaders of
Kerala branch of anjuman were khan bahadoor attakkoya thangal (patron) and
maqbool Ahmad naqburi (general secretary).
First musha’ra (portry competetion) in Kerala was organized with the closing
ceremony of the convention. Babaye Urdu abdul haque, mahvi, asrar, shabir, sayyid
muhammed sarvar were participated in the musha’ra. Valattanam Abdulla was played
crucial role in the activities of the organization. The organization helped the growth of
Urdu language and literature.
After the India- Pakistan partition the activities of the organization anjumane
tharaqqie- Urdu were became frozen. Meanwhile, in 1956, then vice chancellor of
jamiya milliya islamiya Dr. Zakir khussain visited Kerala state aiming the preaching
and spreading of Urdu all over Kerala.
After 1991, Urdu lovers and scholars were restarted the activities of anjumane
tharaqqiya Urdu in Kerala. Mp Abdussamad samadani became president since then.
General Secretary is TK abdul hameed karashery. Its treasurer is P. Moideen kutty.
The organization’s main works are as flowing to give the scholarships for the
students to study Urdu language, free books distribution, subsidy for book writing,

42. 28
classes for the old men, starting of Urdu educational institution, and to give financial
assistance for Urdu technical educational institutions and Urdu writers. The
organization conducted seminars, discussion and speeches to preach the Urdu
language41
.
2.2.8.4 Anjumane Ishaate Urdu
Following the re division of states on the basis of languages, in 1959 Kerala state was
established and Malabar region was departed from madras state. This caused for the
shortage of Urdu teachers in Kerala. This also created obstacles in the way of Urdu
language education in school level.
First educational minister of Kerala Joseph Mundassery interested only to
Malayalam language. In this situation, Urdu language lovers gathered in the
Madrasathul Muhamadiya hall in Kozhikode. The gathering was participated by
eminent social workers and writers like Sayyid muhammed Sarvar, Abdulla
Valapattanam, Sayyid Abdul Rabb (lecture of Faroke College), Muhammed Ishaq
Thalassery, and Batkal Muslim Jama’th committee members.
Owner of Colombo store Abdul Rasaq gave all financial assistances for the
gathering. It was provided over by him. In the discussion section of gathering an
opinion rose to established a organization to protect the Urdu language following the
opinion in the gathering there established Anjuman-e-Urdu.
Its main work in its history was an important petition they submitted to
government and their efforts to achieve their needs. The petition includes mainly two
factors, To conduct lower and higher exams in Urdu language as helping these exams
in minority languages like Arabic language and Sanskrit language, and to appoint
41
Islamika vikjana kosham, (Kozhikode: IPh Islamic publishing house)-vol-6, p: 667.

43. 29
Urdu teachers in the unoccupied posts. Its organizers submitted petition to the Kerala
University to held Adeebe Fazil exam in Urdu. The government considered these
matters after 13years.They established a branch of Anjuman-e-Isha’the-Urdu” in
Kochi in 1962.
2.2.8.5 Bazme Hasanath or Urdu Prachar Sabha
Bazme hasanath or Urdu prachar Sabha was made precious contributions for the
growth of Urdu language and literature.
KTC Veeran established an organization named ‘Bazme Hasanath’ for the
growth of Urdu language in 1951 in Chandamangallore in Kozhikode district. In 1970,
its name changed as Urdu Prachar Sabah’.
Its main services were translations of some Urdu moral teaching books and
sent to houses and its efforts to teach Urdu.
Urdu Prachar Sabha established private institution in Kozhikode and Wayanad
districts since 1970 to train the Urdu exam writers. These institutions were known as
oriental college. Since1984, Urdu calligraphy centre was established under Markazi
Urdu Taraqqi Bureau with stipend.
In 1922, Urdu Prachar Sabha organized Urdu conference and Urdu art fest.
They honored famous Urdu writer MN sathya Garhi by receiving him. The Sabah also
published magazine named ‘Malabari Awaz’ from 1993.42
42
Ibd,p:678

44. 30
2.2.8.6 Urdu Development Association
This organization was established in 1950 in malappuram for the preaching of
language. Famous Urdu poet and iqbal of Kerala sayyid Muhammad sarvar was its
main organizer.
Its main workers were moitheen kutty (the former Kerala Urdu teachers
association’s president), Moytheen Kutty (in the Malappuram language teachers
training centre), former Hassan engineer Kutty Hassan, Sayyid Ali Valanchery, and
trader C.H Abdul Kadir.
In 1976, Urdu Development Association organized an Urdu seminar Dr Sayid
Qudrathulla participated in this seminar and delivered speech. Main work of the
association was coaching for the Urdu exam writing students of Kerala.
2.2.8.7 Kerala Urdu Teachers Association
“Kerala Urdu Teachers Association” came into existence by untiring efforts of
Syed Mohammed Sarwar, Ishaq Mohammed Faqirs and K.T.C. Beeran to help solve
Problems of Urdu teachers since with the promotion of Urdu at the school level
several new problems were also experienced43
This organization was established in 1974 in the name of Anjuman -e-
Asathide Urdu Kerala (Kerala Urdu Teachers’ Association). Nowadays, it is known as
KUTA in short. Majority of Urdu teachers in Kerala members in this association
KUTA takes important role in the current history of Urdu language in Kerala.
43
.M.H. Hashim Urdu Education at the School Level in Kerala, since Independence. Language in India
www.languageinindia.com, 11: 11 November 2011. (Accessed on 12, November, 2014).

45. 31
Before establishing this association, there were another organization namely
Urdu Pandit Association in the districts of Malabar. Urdu Pandit association of
Kozhikode district was established in 1972 February 28 in the gathering of officers
and Urdu lovers held in Himayath school of Kozhikkod.M.A Vahid Muneer
(president), P.T.C Mohammadali (General Secretary) and M Mohammed kutty
(treasurer) were selected as its committee.
In 1974 August 28, a grand gathering was in Sabeelul Huda Madrassa,
Kozhikode under the aegis of this association. From the gathering of there was formed
an preparatory committee including K P Velayudhan and Hassan Vayyoli with above
mentioned personalities. So, KUTA was established in the meeting under presidency
of Mohammed Ishaq, convener of Anjumane Islahu llisan of Thalassery. The meeting
was held in Lozhikkopd Sabeelul Huda Madrassa. KPS Thangal (President), [PTC
Mohammad Ali (general Secretary) and M Mohammed (treasurer) were the first
leaders of the organization44
.
K U T A played important role in the growth of Urdu language in academic
level of Kerala. Now, the organization has branches in all district s and Taluks.
In 1978, when P Moideen Kutty was selected as its state President, all
activities and movements of the organization became very fast. The organization
could solve all problems faced by Urdu teachers of Kerala.
44
Shamsudheen tirurkkad, goyr Urdu alaqoon me Urdu kalamkaroon ke masaael, Urdu duniya, 2008
JUNE.P:17-18.

46. 32
In 2000 march, there was held its Silver Jubilee conference in Kozhikode. K U
T A also helped for the formation of All India Urdu Association. The association’s
main work was ‘Urdu bulletin’ mouth piece, which started in 198445
.
2.2.8.8 All Kerala College Urdu Teachers’ Union
This organization, which was known shortly A. K. C. U. T. U’ was formed in 1984.
Its main aim was improvement of Urdu language in colleges. Muhiyudheen
(President) and Mohammed Kasim (General Secretary) were the prime committee
members.
The leaders of the organization visited into various college under Calicut
university and they submitted petition to government to start Urdu education there in
1986, the higher education department of Kerala planned to cancel some of courses.
Urdu BA degree courses that promoted Thalassery Brenan College were included in
these courses. But they were forced to with draw the planning of counseling the
courses because of strengthened struggles under Urdu organizations including All
Kerala Urdu Teachers’ Union.46
2.2.9 Educational Institutions
As we know that, educational institutions had important role in the growth of Urdu
language all over Kerala. It is very difficult to say that how and when was started the
Urdu education in Kerala.
Importance of Urdu education was growing in educational level of Kerala.
Urdu education was started in government schools and aided schools. Now days Urdu
45
2. Shamsudhhen Tirukkad, Kerala me Urdu thaaleem, Urdu Duniya, 2008, aguest, p: 14-
17.
46
Islamika vikjana kosham, (Kozhikode: IPh Islamic publishing house)-vol-, p678.

47. 33
was taught in schools from 5th
standard to +2 level also. Brenan College of talassery,
St.joseph high school B.E.M.P school, and munawarul Islam school of eranakulam
and haji esa haji memorial school of Cochin were taught Urdu. Malappuram
government high school was also important in the history of Urdu language Kerala.
Besides these schools, Urdu BA was promoted in many government colleges.
Sri Sankara Sankrit University was providing Urdu MA also.
Urdu education was officially started in telecherry st. josaph high school. But,
Urdu education get importance in government institution after 1970, Urdu lower and
higher exam was held under Kerala government exam board. In 1969, Calicut
University was established; it held adeebe-e- fazil exam under them.
In that period Urdu was thought only in Brenan collage of telecherry and
Faroke College. By the strong and continues efforts of Urdu development association,
Urdu education started in malappuram government college.
In 1968, first batch adeebe-e –fazil came out side. Numerous developments
were made in Arabic and Urdu language education in the period of education minister
CH MUHAMMED KOYA. More education institutions were started and Arabic and
Urdu languages could achieve many academic achievements, in this period.
After 1970, Urdu department were started in many schools. In 1976-77,
government Urdu training centre was established in mayyippadi in kasargod district.
After some years, it was changed to malappuram. Another “Urdu teachers” training
centre was established in Kozhikode. Now, an Urdu calligraphy centre was
established in chendamangalloor under the aegis of human resources development
ministery of center government.

48. 34
2.2.9.1 Palli Dars
Urdu language was taught in first half of 19th
century in Dars(commonly Known as
Palli Dars), because many of Kerala students were going to Darul Uloom of
Dayooband, Umarabad Darussalam and Vellor Baqiyathu Swalihathu for higher
education in Islamic studies. The teaching language medium was mainly Urdu47
.
There were Dars in various region of Kerala like Palakkad, Malappuram,
Kozhikode mangalloor, Thalassery and Kannur. Urdu was taught also in Chaliyam,
Ponnani, vazhakkad and Manarkad, because the teachers (Mudarris) were studied
from above mentioned colleges outside of Kerala. Urdu education was very important
in the syllabus of Vazhakkad Darul Uloom Arabic College and in A’lia Arabic
College in Kasargode.
In 1909, Islamic Madrassa (Dars) system was started by Vazhakkad Darul
Uloom College. Chalilakath Kunchahamed Hajji (known as Sir Sayyid of Kerala) was
principal of Darul Uloom Arabic College. Urdu and Arabic languages were taught
there along with Qur’an, Hadeeth, Fiqh, thafseer, science and geography.
Kunjahammed Haji was voracious reader of Urdu news paper name ‘Al-HilaL’ of
Moulana Azad. He was suggesting the students to read it also. Babaye Urdu Moulavi
Abdul Haq, Dr Abdul Haqq and Mahvi Siddiqi were visited Darul Uloom to check the
status of Urdu education there and were satisfied by its activities48
.
Urdu was also taught Madrassa of Kochi and Ksargode. Urdu education was
developed in kodiyathur Sirajul uloom Madrassa (established in Kodiayathur in 1917),
Tirurangadi Yatheem Khana (established in 1939), Tirurangadi Nurul Islam Madrassa
47
K.P Shamsudheen, Tirurkkad,Kerala me jis par Urdu Duniya Baja Faqr Kar Sakthahe,The Etemaad
Urdu Daily,Hyderabad,2,april,2006,P:4.
48
Ibd,P:5

49. 35
established in 1943) and Ilahiaya Madrassa in Tirurkkad. Five volumes of Hamari
kithab which was recognaised in Hyderabad and etc were included in the syllabus of
Tirurangadi.
Ilahiyya Madrassa was upgraded as college and it became centre of Urdu
language. Its Principal was Kaderi Muhammad Musliyar. He taught there integrating
Arabic and Urdu languages. Abdul Khadir Moulavi was led the Urdu language
forward in Kodiyathur.
2.2.9.2 Malappuram Govt: High School
Kerala had behaved properly to Urdu and people had welcomed it warmly. According
to all districts of Kerala Malappuram has great and memorable role in socializing this.
And it is only one district in which department based teaching started. Government
collages, some other institutions, and universities also had taught it as a result of hard
works from some vital persons.
Malappuram government high school includes in the list of famous educational
institutions which helped for the growth of Urdu. It was known as “Aligarh of
Malabar”. There were no more Urdu teachers of teach Urdu there till 1944. Sayyid
Muhammad sarwar was the Urdu teacher in 27 years from 1944 to 1971. That time
Urdu got its importance and concern.
2.2.9.3 Sir Sayyid College, Taliparamba
In 1946, an organization was established in the name “Bazme Urdu “for
students. Many famous Urdu poets and writers of country were participated in its
annual conference. In sarvar’s teaching many students were grew up loving Urdu. By

50. 36
their efforts a village was made known as “Urdu nagar” Kannoor municipal school
and Trissur Hidayathuul Islam high school were became important in the Urdu
teaching.
2.2.9.3 Telechery Brennen College
In 1888, Telecherry Brennan College was established by Eduard Brenan for the
preaching of English education49
. From 1957, its degree couse was started. Before
this, Urdu language was taught there as second language. It was the first college
established for teaching of Urdu in Kerala.
In the starting period, temporary teachers were taught and worked there. In
1955, Muhammad Husain shakir was appointed as permanent Urdu teacher. Thus,
Urdu language gets more concern in the college. He bought rare and precious books
for the college.
After him, Mir Ahammed Ali (Andra predesh) he came head of Urdu
department of college .now shiek Goes Muhyudheen is the head of Urdu department
prof assu, Dr.muhammed qasim and E.muhammed (achieved mfill about development
of Urdu language in Kerala)were its teacher.
Thalassery Brennan College played important role in the history of Urdu education in
Kerala.
2.2.9.4 Feroke College
It was established in 1948 in the leadership of Abu swabah moulavi .Urdu education
was started in the college from 1950 prime lecturer of the college was Abdu rabb of
49
Noushad Rahmani, Urdu: lalitha Sunnaramaya Basha, Suprabatham News paper, 9, November,
2014.p:4.

51. 37
thumkoor in Karnataka. After him Muhammad Ibrahim was became the teacher of
Faroke College in 1970, Dr.qudrathulla baqavi was appointed Urdu professor in the
college .many professors who studied and achieved the degree from Aligarh. Were
come to Faroke college, so Urdu language was much progressed there.
2.2.9.5 Malappuram Govt: College
In 1970, Malappuram Government College was established. After two years, in 1972
Urdu education was started there. The personality who served for the Urdu language
very well, Dr.Abdurahman thaqib (from kadappa in Andra Pradesh) was its teacher.
After him, abdul gaffar from chittur in Andra Pradesh became head of Urdu
department there.pk Aboobakkar, Dr.Shahsadi beegam; Moytheen kutty and Nakulan
were its Urdu teachers. Sir Sayyid College, Taliparamba
In 1964 April 28, Muslim educational Association of Kannur district was
established aiming development of kannur peoples in the educational field. It helped
the poor students giving them financial assistance to study. In 1967, sir Sayyid
College was established under the ages of this association. Now, this college is the
biggest of colleges under Kannur University.
Urdu language was taught in the sir sayyid college as second language. The
college was very famous in the educational institutions helping the growing of Urdu in
Kerala. Urdu education was started here in 197750
.
50
Shakkela Teacher, Government collog/e, Malappuram, Interview by researcher, Munduparambu,
10/10/2014.

52. 38
2.2.9.6 Darul Huda Islamic University
Darul Huda Islammic University is a prominent Islamic institution in Kerala. It
established in 1986, its unique syllabus and academic structure keeps it as best Islamic
university of Kerala. Its integrative educational system has gained a great popularity.
First and foremost target of Darul Huda is to create a group of scholars who can
spread Islamic light in different places where different languages are being talked.
Syllabus of Darul Huda gives more importance to Urdu language by making students.
Under Darul Huda Islamic university established institution for Islamic and
contemporary studies (NICS). The various students from out of Kerala studying in this
institution, they speak Urdu and interact with Malayalam students. This helped to get
more influence Urdu language in Kerala students,
Darul Huda Urdu syllabus its 19 affiliation colleges in Kerala and 5
institutions out of Kerala .Recently Urdu institution started in Pallippuram (Fadfari
college), for Urdu language Darul Huda gives great important. As the result of Draul
Huda syllabus and its victory among scoiety, other Islamic institutions began teaching
in Wafi syllabus and Jamia junior colleges, etc.
2.2.9.7 Other Institutions
In 1922, an institution namely ‘jam’iyathe De’wath-vo- thableeg-e- Islam (JDT) was
established in Kozhikode. We-can say that this institution was the centre of Urdu
language in Malabar. Abdul Qadir Qasoori, who came to Kozhikode with all his
wealth from Punjab, was established the institution by the help of local peoples. He
was also preacher of Urdu language. Its first secretary Maqbul Ahmmed’s mother

53. 39
tongue was also Urdu language. Abdu Rahman and Aslam, those were served in the
preaching and improving of Urdu language in Kerala. They were collected a fund for
this purpose. Urdu is being taught in J.D.T.
2.2.9.7.1 Malabar Special Police
(MSP)Officers were forced to know Urdu language. M.S.P was formed by British
government for keeping peace and low of Malabar. There were provided chances for
Urdu education. British men were studied Urdu language in Roman script.
Batkal Muslim jama’th and uppala Hanafi jama’th were played crucial role in
maintaining the Urdu language in Kerala. Urdu madrasa, primary school, library and
jumua Masjid were held under the aegis of uppala Hanafi jama’th.
Private institutions are conducting courses for University exams because the
government and aided institutions were didn’t promote these courses.
Oriental college under chendamakkallur Urdu prachara samithi , Elite college
in Malappuram Kottappady under Urdu development Association , Urdu study center
in Vadakara ,Galib Urdu college were famous in these institution there are many
Urdu teachers considering Urdu education as main duty .nowadays ,Urdu distance
educational course were held in Kerala under the aegis of maulana abul kalam asad
Urdu university . Its center was in Kozhikode markaz complex.

54. 40
CHAPTER THREE
URDU LITERATURES IN KERALA
3.1 POETRY
The arrival of Urdu language into Kerala was in 16th
century. The zamorins of Calicut
required help from The Adhilsha kings of Bijapur for supporting his troops in resisting
against the Portuguese who tried to capture the Kerala land considering the request,
Adhil shah send troop for Zamorin. After the end of last struggle, some of the troop
began dwell in Calicut, and thus some of Urdu words became used in Malayalam too.
The elevation of Urdu language in Kerala was in the reign of Tipu Sultan. A vast area
of Kerala land was under the control of Tipu. The troop and governance officials of
these areas were who spoke Urdu language natively. During this period Urdu
language mania arose in Kerala, and thousands of Urdu words entered into
Malayalam.
For being confined only in oral field, the literal field of Urdu language was not
wide in Kerala as much it was in other territories. Both the helps with people and
property were done by Nizam Trust of Hyderabad for the propagation and teaching of
Urdu language in Kerala. The taste of Urdu poetry was emerging frequently during
this period.

55. 41
The only one Muslim kingdom in Kerala “Arakkal” which was centralized in
Kannur was closely related with Nizam of Hyderabad51
. In 19th
century, The Durbar
of Arakkal king became a stage of performing Qawali and Na’th, where Qawali
singers from Hyderabad began attend. Doctor Navas Kaleem once came to Arakkal
king for Qwali perfomance and settled here, he was a poet too. Abdu Rahman Ali
Raja who assumed charge as king in 1930, was found of Music and poetry, a lot of
poets have came here during his reign. The son of Navaz Klaeem Mr Abdul Qader
kaleem had great knowledge about Hindustani music; he connected with it in very
personal interest. Likewise his father, Abdul Qadar Kaleem too kept a relation with
Arakkal Darbar. Chandh Pasha, the son of Abdul Qadar Kaleem who died during the
life time of his father was needless to be introduced to Kerala society; he was also a
fond of poetry. The Meman family which was living in Kochi and Thalassery had
played a key role in Making Urdu language spread in Kerala wide. Meman family had
used Urdu language for communication along with their language. The special role
done by them in the political field to Kerala is very clear52
.
The cradle of Thalassery’s political field was 20th
century. The famous social
and political volunteer Haji Abdu Sathar Ishack Settu worked hard for the
development of Urdu language. Moulana Zafar Ali Kahan who came to Calicut and
Thalassery from Lahore for exploring the political situations of Kerala published a
journal named “Zamindar” including some poems about Kerala.
On 1931 September 5,Sathar Settu and his companions formed an organization
in Thalessery named “Islahulisan organisation” through which they held Urdu
51
Shamsudheen tirurkkad, Kerala me Urdu, Urdu duniya, 2005 July.P:19-21.
52
Ibd, P: 19.

56. 42
teaching, Eminent personalities of the time like Suleiman Settu, Moosa Nasih, and
Ishack Fakeer were in connection with this organization. In the time, Ibraheem
Sulaiman Settu wrote many poems and Gazals.and they were published in timelines.
He called himself in the pen name of “kousar”. Moosa Nasih became very famous
bout his poetry and literal skills as he wrote some ghazals. But unfortunately they
were not published anywhere, and none did try for spreading his works. The secretary
of Islahulisan organiasation, Ishaq spend whole his time for the propagation of Urdu.
All Kerala Urdu convention was held before years upon his work, he frequently
accessed Urdu poetry even while his busy life, his pen name was “faqeer”53
.
In 1938 April, a magazine named “Narajeelisthan” was published under
Islahulisan. Its producer Abdul Kareem Settu was well known Urdu poet, his pen
name was “Akther”. Through the publication of a”Narajeelistan” many poets got
chance to reveal their literal works, Sayyid Haroon was such one. Jany Settu was a
contemporary poet who lived in Kochi, who gave himself the pen name “Shoukh”.
The granddaughter of Jani Settu M/s Sulaikha Hussain is a famous Kerala
novel writter, who had written 36 novels; Jani Settu was a pupil of Semab Akbar. The
Ali Haji mosque of Thalessery which was preserved by Meman Hazrtath is very
famous and old. A well was digged in Mosque compound as a monument of Thahir
Muhammed Moosa Uroof Bchu Settu and it yet exists, there are Urdu poems
pertaining to this well. During the political activities of Sathar Settu in Thalaseery,
eminent personalities like Navab Sidheek, Ziyakath Ali Khan, Yoosuf Haroon,
Bahadoor Yarjak, Moulana Zafar Ali Khan, Moulavi Abdul Haqqu, and Jamal
53
Shamsudheen tirurkkad, Kerala me Urdu, Urdu duniya, 2005 July.P:20.

57. 43
Muhammed were used to visit Calicut and Thalassery. Hoastage was always in the
palace of Sathar Settu. They performed “Mushaara” after supper. It would not be
wrong if be said that the visiting of Mushara in Kerala was related to this. In this time
there lived in lady poet in Thalassery named Ayisha with pen name “haya”. She left to
Trivandrum with family after marriage.
A close friend of Ayisha named Mahmooda got interested in poetry through
their relation and she translated English poems to Urdu and they were published in
“Thdeebunnisa” magazine of Lahore. Trivandrum once cradle of Urdu language. The
rulers of Trivandrum and Navabs of Arakkad were in close relation. Only a few
details are available only about Abdul Hameed who is a poet of Trivandrum wihich
was eroding in the darkness of oblivion. His pen name was Quraish. He had a
distinguished style in prophetic poems, Quraish had written ample elegies. He wished
to publish his collections, but he was no more in 1986 before he could complete his
dream. The greatest Mushara performance was held in 1943 November 7 at Calicut,
where a Urdu conference was conducted in which moulavi Abdul haq came from
Delhi for presidential speech. The Malabar branch of Urdu development movement
was formed in this conference. After the dispersal of conference, Musha’ra
programme was organized in himayathe Islam hall. Many poets from Mysore and
Bangalore were participated the program besides Moulavi Abdul Haq, Mahvi, Asrar
and Shibr. The young poet of Kerala muhammed Sarvar was also a participant in the
programme. After two days, on November 9 Moulavi Abdul Haq Sahib came to
malappuram along with some comrades, where 70 students have selected Urdu
language as their elective language in a government school. In 1944 sarvar sahib
began to serve as Urdu teacher in this government school. He was a well known

58. 44
Kerala Urdu poet, who had published two poem collections in the name of Argamane
Kerala and Navaye Sarvar. Due to these poetic skills, kerala become recognized not
only in India but also in whole world. After the partition of India in 1947, Urdu
languages undergone for many crises in Kerala as were in other territories. Evaluating
the Argamane Kerala of sarvar, moulana Abul hasan Ali Nadwi says “poetry is done
in very perfect language I feel sarvar was given something like Allama Iqbal” sarvar
was appreciated through letters many times by son of Allama Iqbal Mr Javed Iqbal.
Considering his contributions, Urdu accadamy of uttarpradesh gave him award and
certificate. Many literates like Mahwi Siddiqi, Arshad siddiqi, sager Mahdi, Sulaiman
athhar haved, profeser muhammed Kamaludheen, Abdul Majid, and Dr Swafdar …..
And Maqmoor saeedi have appreciated Mr Sarvar very much.
Mr Sarvar had relation with Malappuram district Tirur, a famous town of
Malappuram, where the famous poet noorudheen was lived.he was a business man, he
mainly composed romantic poems and his name was “Bechaini Keralavi”, he have
wrote countless poems. Unfrtunately he became dump due to an accident. In 1991
September 8, the people who loved Urdu language formed a Kerala branch of Urdu
development movement of India. Janab Abdu Samadani was selected as the president
of the movement. N Muhyidheen Kutty was one of the well accepted Kerala Urdu
poets of the time. His domenstrated poetic skills infront society through short poems,
his pen name was “Mhroom”. His poems were published in Magazines and included
in school syllabus of Kerala. Through collaburation with Hameed Karasherry, and
Muhyidheen Kutty, published “byari byari Nasmen” a valuable collection for children
at present. It contained two types of poems relevent and selected poems were in first
type, their own compositions were in second. Hameed Karasserry writes for children

59. 45
at present. It was recently that K.T Abdu Rasheed published a collection of poems for
children from Calicut named “Pulvari”. Abdu Rahman Kuniyil Avaz is one of living
Urdu poets in Kerala, he have proved his mettle in lyrics than in poetry. The famous
poems like Javani and Samundhar are belonged to him. Faizal Naeem the youngest
among Kerala poets is a gifted on who posses exequisite writing style. The collections
“Thefle Bihar, Thulooe Hrkath” are his works54
.
The tri monthly magazine “Urdu Bulletin” published by Kerala Urdu teacher’s
association offer opportunities to Urdu poets. The works of interested people in Urdu
poetry are also published in it. Above interest, there are many poets who related Urdu
poetry for mental satisfaction; former head of Urdu department in Farook college Mr
Janab Qudrathulla Sahib, head of department in Sir Sayyid College Thalipparamb, Mr
Yakkob Shareef Sahib and the former head of Urdu department in Thalassery Bernan
College, Mr Mir Ahmad are some of such kind.
The president of Urdu development movement of Kerala Mr Abdu Samad
Samadani have key role in spreading Urdu poems of Allama Iqbal among common
people. He does excess recitation of poems of Allama Iqbal in speeches apt to
moments. This make common people interested in Urdu language even they are
unaware of Allama Iqbal. The lovers of Urdu language were joyful when Mr Abdu
Samad Samadani was elected to Rajya Saba in 1993, he sworn in using Urdu
language. Kerala was a real home to growth Urdu poetic literature through not much
as other territories. For being the mother tongue of Kerala, Malayalam. Despite it yet
the Urdu and its literature is growing faster in Kerala. There are many other Urdu
54
Shamsudheen tirurkkad, Kerala me Urdu, Urdu duniya, 2005 July.P:19.

60. 46
poets who were not mentioned here and who are not known to me. The place of
Kerala in this regard is undeniable, seeing the spreading of Urdu in Kerala.55
Urdu language was spreading all over Kerala by the effects of rulers and later
by the movements. But, in addition to other states, Urdu literature was less improved
in Kerala. Hyderabad Nizam trust was giving financial assistances for teaching Urdu
in Kerala. Meanwhile Urdu poetry was emerging here.
3.1.1 Arakkal Dynasty
The unique Muslim dynasty in Kerala was ruling in Kanuur. They were in close
relation with Hyderabad Nizam. In 19th
century, there were organized Qawwalis in
Arakkal Durbar and were participated by Hyderabad poets. Famous poet, Dr. Nawaz
Kaleem was working as medical officer in Madras residency, he was came here.
Arakkal Sulthan AbduRahman Ali Raja (1930) was fond of music and poetry
in his period. Many poets and poem recites were coming here from Hydrebad and
other regions of India. His son, Abdul Qadar Kaleem was studied about Hindusthani
musics. He was quite close to Arakkal sultan. His son Chand Pasha was prepared
songs mixing Urdu poems with hindusthani music.
3.1.2 Memen Family
They played important role for improvement of Urdu in Kerala. They are living in
Kochi and Thalacherry. They are using Urdu as their mother tongue. They were
played vital role in political field of Kerala.
55
K.P Shamsudheen, Tirurkkad, Kerala me Urdu Shaeree, Munsif daily, 16, September, 2014.

61. 47
Janni settu of this family was famous Urdu poet. His penname was ‘Shouq’.
His granddaughter Suleika Husain published 27 Urdu novels
3.1.3 Some Urdu Poets In Kerala
Haji Abdul Sathar Settu was doing untired efforts for the improvement of Urdu in
Kerala. Ibrahim Sulaiman Settu wrote many Urdu ghazals and poems in the penname
‘Kousar’.
Muhammed Ishaq (Penname), Abdul Kareem Settu (famous in the name of
Akhthar and the owner of Narajeelisthan) were famous Urdu poet. Narajeelisthan
provided many chances for emerging Urdu poets. Its editor sayed harun was writing
Urdu poems. Many well-known poets like Nawab Siddiq, Maolana Zafar Ali Khan,
Liyakath Ali Khan and etc were visited Talacherry as chief guests of Sathar Settu.
There were mushaaras held in his house after dinner and the above mentioned
personalities were participated in the mushaaras. We can say that the starting of
Mushaaras is from here. Mahmuda (cousin of Ibrahim Sulaiman Settu) and Ayisha
Gaga were Urdu poets.
Abdul Hameed Trivandrum (penname Quraish) wrote Na’th and elegies. He
was dreamt to publish a collection of Na’ths. But he was passed away in 1967 without
completing his dream.
A big Mushaara was held in 1943 in Kozhikode. It was participated by Bahaye
Urdu Moulabi Abdul Haq, Mahvi and many poets from Banglore and Mysore. Young
poet Sarvar was also participated in it. As we mentioned he published collections od

62. 48
poems ‘Armaghane Kerala’ and ‘Navaye Sarvar’. Javid Iqbal (son of Iqbal) was
appreciated him. Moulana Abul Hasana Ali Nadwi was also appreciated him and
adviced him. Sharib Redolvi called him father of Urdu in Kerala.
Sayed Nurudheen Tirur wrote more poems and ghazals about love in penname
‘Be chain Keralavi’. Muhyudheen Kutty published ‘Phulvari’. Faisal Zaeem published
three collections ‘Shu’la’, ‘Thulue Harkath’ and ‘Thifile Bahar’. He was editing his
poems from the poets of Delhi Galib Academy.
Shortly, there are more poets we didn’t describe about them. There are many
poets writing without real name.
3.2 INDIVIDUAL CONTRIBUTIONS
3.2.1 Sayyid Sanaullah Makthi Thangal
Sayyid Sanaullah Makthi was born in Veliyankodu at AD 1847, son of Sayyid Ahmad
Thangal (community leader and student of Umar Kazi) and Shareefa beevi from
Hamadani family56
. His birth, growth and primary education was from Veliyankodu.
The word Makthi was from the name of his third grandfather, Sayyid Abdullahil
Makthi. Vakkam Abdul Khadar Moulavi, Chalilakath Kunchahammed Haji,
Hamadani Thangal, Sri Narayana guru, Ayyankaali and DR: Palppada chavar,
Kurryakkos achan were the contemporaries of Sayyid Sanaullah Makthi. The age
from1750 to 1850 was a renaissance era of Kerala and the period of many religious
56
Islamika vikjana kosham, ( Kozhikode:IPh Islamic publishing house)-vol-6, P. 12

63. 49
scholars in Kerala. He learned the primary education from his father Sayyid Ahmad,
while his father was from an educated family57
.
Sayyid Sanaullah Makthi Thangal was the first reformer, against the fake
religious customs, among the Muslim community. He was a religious scholar, thinker,
writer, orator, reformer, good organizer, correspondent, great religious debater etc. He
was a potential and dedicated personality for the great progress of Muslim community
in all segments. When the Kerala Muslims were in crummy and wretched religious
situation in the last of 18th
century, Sayyid Sanaullah Makthi reached among the
community as a reformer and started a renaissance in Muslim community. The most
important stimulant for his entrance to the community was the Christian missionaries,
alleging the Islam and Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) to extend their religion,
Christianity.
He wrote countless texts, published many newspapers, delivered many
speeches and conducted many debates, to pull down the efforts of Christian
missionaries against the Prophetic teachings and Islamic ideologies. He promulgated
many ideas for the progress of Muslim community with answering the allegations of
Christian missionaries against Islam and prophet Muhammed (P.B.U.H).
He was served the Urdu language in its primary period. He was highly
educated and great scholar in Urdu language. He wrote books in Arabic –Malayalam
and Urdu. He tried his best for the growth of Urdu language in Kerala. He reformed
the current Arabic-Malayalam script by the Urdu letters.
57
TV Abdul rahman, the historian of Ponnani, Interview by researcher, Ponnani, Kerala, 20/7/2014

64. 50
Sayyid Sanaullah Makthi had a wide talent in Malayalam, by this educational
system and it should be known, when we read his masterpiece texts. The people
without Muslims used the pure and fine Malayalam language and they wrote many
texts in fine Malayalam language against the Islam and Prophet Muhammad
(P.B.U.H). Sayyid Sanaullah Makthi replied in pure Malayalam language against
those texts published against the Islam and its fine customs. The important factor in
the expertness of Sayyid Sanaullah Makthi was his early education. He was well
expert in Urdu language and he tried to improve the script of Arabic Malayalam by
some letters of Urdu language58
. In 1912 Makthi Thangal was passed away.
3.2.2 Chalilakath Kunchahammed Haji
In this time itself, Chalilakath Kunchahammed Haji (1855- 1918) became powerful
and prime preacher of Urdu. He studied his higher education in Latheefiyya College,
Vellore. In 1909 he became teacher (mudarris) of Vazakkad Darul Uloom. He was the
founder of madrassa system. Thus he started Urdu education in the madrassas like
Sirajul Islam madrassa in kodiyathoor, he was voracious reader of “Al-Balag” and “Al
–hilal” of Maulana Asad.
3.2.3 Malayam kulathel marakkar musliyar
Malayam kulathel marakkar musliyar was a rare personality who was taught Urdu
language in the old Ponnani taluk, after him, leader of Khilafath movement
Abdrahiman sahib and E Moyithu moulavi were became its preachers.
58
Islamika vikjana kosham, (Kozhikode: IPh Islamic publishing house)-vol-6, p: 13.

65. 51
3.2.4 T Ubaid
Mppila poet T Ubaid was translated Iqbal’s Urdu poem to Malayalam language, it was
known that there were writing letters between T Ubaid and Iqbal.
Vakkam Abdul Qadir (1912-76) was a Urdu scholar tried his best for the
improvement Urdu in Kerala
M P Abdul Kareem Moulavi (born in 1919) was famous Urdu teacher in many
Dars and educational institutions. He was started translation of holy Quran to Urdu
language, but unfortunately he was passed away before completing it.
3.2.5 Sayyid Muhammad Sarver
Sayyid Muhammad Sarver (1916-1994) was famous Urdu scholar known as Urdu
poet, teacher, translator, and as a guide of Urdu organization in Kerala .his real name
was sayyid Muhammad and Sarver was his penname
He passed Adeeb-e-fazil from Madras university in1942. He became teacher
till 1944 in Tellichery .Sarvar served in malappuram government high school for 27
years till 1971. He was published his poems and essays in about 10 periodicals in
various parts of the country
He was translated famous Malayalam stories to Urdu and Urdu novels and
stories to Malayalam. In 1970 he published his first collection of poems named
‘Armaghan-e-karela.in 1988 ‘navaye Sarver’ was published.He was achieved
doctorate and awards. He played a leading role in all Urdu organizations and
movements of the states.