Saudi-based NRI Zakariya Jokatte chosen for Karnataka Rajyotsava Award
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Mangaluru: The Karnataka government’s Department of Kannada and Culture has announced the 2025–26 Karnataka Rajyotsava Awards, honouring Zakariya Jokatte, founder of Al Muzain Company in Jubail, Saudi Arabia, and chairman of M Friends Charitable Trust in Mangaluru, under the “Non-Resident Kannadiga (NRI)” category.
Born on May 10, 1958, in Thokur, Jokatte, Zakariya is the eldest of five children of Haji B. Shekhoonji and Katheejamma. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming a successful global entrepreneur is marked by sheer hard work and perseverance. Having discontinued his formal education early, he began his career doing small-scale jobs, selling jaggery, welding, and working as a daily-wage labourer. During his early years abroad, he even carried cement up to the 28th floor of a building as part of construction work.
After years of tireless effort, Zakariya established Al Muzain Manpower Company in 2008 at Jubail, along with his eldest son Zaheer and three employees. The company gradually expanded to employ over 8,000 workers, with a target of creating 10,000 jobs by 2027.
Following the success of Al Muzain, Zakariya went on to set up several other enterprises, expanding his business footprint across Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, UAE, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, London, and India. He also entered the education sector by founding an international school in Al Khobar in collaboration with Yenepoya Institutions. Plans are underway to establish a hospital and medical college as part of his future vision. He is also working on AI innovation projects and development initiatives for the coastal region.
Currently residing in Bolar, Mangaluru, Zakariya lives with his wife Hazra Zakariya. Their three sons Zaheer, Nazir, and Zahid, are involved in various business ventures abroad.
As chairman of M Friends Charitable Trust, Hidaya Foundation, and Zara Family Charity Trust, Zakariya has been at the forefront of social service. He serves as a director, advisor, and sponsor for several organisations across Karnataka, contributing extensively to the welfare of the poor and underprivileged. His philanthropic work and business excellence have earned him numerous awards and recognitions at national and international levels.
Reacting to the award, Zakariya said he had never applied for the recognition, and it came as a pleasant surprise.
“I never sought awards while doing social work. I didn’t even know about the nomination some of my friends worked behind the scenes to make this happen. I grew up in poverty, so I understand the pain of the needy and always try to help them. When the award was announced, I was in Saudi Arabia, preparing to travel to Jaipur for a friend’s wedding on November 1. The news left me overwhelmed. This honour has not only brought joy but also reminded me of my greater social responsibility. I sincerely thank the state government for this recognition,” he said.
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Woman dies after falling off crowded local train in Thane district
Thane (PTI): A 28-year-old woman died after falling off a crowded suburban local train during the morning rush hour in Maharashtra's Thane district on Saturday, the Government Railway Police (GRP) said.
The incident occurred around 8.10 am at the Badlapur railway station, an official from the Kalyan GRP said.
The victim, Chetana Devrukhkar, was attempting to board a moving train heading for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) when she slipped and fell on the platform, senior inspector Pandhari Kande of the Kalyan GRP said.
He said that the deceased worked with a firm in Thane and was travelling to work.
A case of accidental death has been registered in connection with the incident.
