Latest news with #ThayyilAbdulGafoor
NDTV
18 hours ago
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Kerala Man Spent 51 Years In UAE Helping Indians, His Viral Return Will Move You
Thayyil Abdul Gafoor, a 64-year-old Indian expat from Kerala, has returned home after spending over five decades in the United Arab Emirates. Gafoor, who lived in the UAE for 51 years, played a key role in facilitating employment visa processing as part of his profession. Beyond his official responsibilities, he was known for personally helping many individuals from his hometown secure jobs in the Gulf. His efforts earned him deep respect among the Malayali community and the affectionate nickname "real-life Gafoor", a nod to the character from the Malayalam cult classic Nadodikkattu, though unlike the film's fictional conman, this Gafoor is celebrated for his genuine support. A video of his grand welcome ceremony in Kerala has gone viral on social media, with many praising his selfless service to the community over the years. Watch the video here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Siyotechandtravel by shihabu (@siyotechtravel) According to Gulf News, last week, he left Dubai for good after multiple farewell parties by friends and colleagues here. On his arrival at Calicut International Airport, Gafoor was given a surprise welcome. A busload of well-wishers shouting slogans and hailing Gafoor ushered him on to a state-run KSRTC bus rented to transport him to his village, Maruthinchira, in Malappuram district. As they reached their village with an overwhelmed Gafoor aboard the rented bus carrying a banner welcoming him, a public announcement through loudspeaker was made from an escorting vehicle: "Our own Gafoorka (brother Gafoor) has landed."
Hindustan Times
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Indian man who helped countless people land UAE jobs returns after 51 years, greeted by roaring busload of people
An Indian expatriate from Kerala, who spent over five decades in the United Arab Emirates assisting thousands with employment visas and personally guiding dozens from his hometown into jobs, has now returned home. The man, identified as Thayyil Abdul Gafoor, received a grand welcome as a roaring busload of people greeted him in Kerala, a moment that has since gone viral. The Indian expat known as the 'real-life Gafoor' left UAE after decades of helping jobseekers and received a grand welcome in Kerala.(Instagram/siyotechtravel ) Check out the clip here: Fondly called the 'Real-life Gafoor' Thayyil Abdul Gafoor, 64, is widely known as the 'real-life Gafoor' among Malayalis, a name earned for his generosity in securing jobs for others. The title draws a contrast with the fictional conman Gafoor from the 1980s Malayalam cult comedy classic Nadodikkattu. According to a Gulf News report, Gafoor bid farewell to Dubai last week after multiple parties organised by his friends and colleagues. Upon arrival at Calicut International Airport, he was greeted by a surprise reception. A busload of well-wishers shouting slogans rented a state-run KSRTC bus to carry him to his village, Maruthinchira, in Malappuram district. A celebration fit for a local hero As Gafoor entered his village aboard the bus, an escort vehicle announced through loudspeakers, 'Our own Gafoorka has landed.' His arrival was marked by a drum ensemble, followed by a public reception attended by local officials and residents. A tribute video highlighting his life's journey was also screened. The reception was organised by members of his neighbourhood group, the KKB Group, to honour the man who, unlike his on-screen namesake played by the late comedian Mamukkoya, truly changed lives. 'It is all thanks to Dubai' Speaking from Maruthinchira, Gafoor told Gulf News he was overwhelmed by the grand welcome. 'It is all thanks to Dubai,' he said. 'I reached heights that I had never imagined I would because of Dubai's generosity. If anyone's life has changed because of me, it is all thanks to Dubai. I have only been a catalyst.' He added, 'I am always grateful to Dubai and the UAE for providing livelihood to not just me, but millions of Indians, especially those from Kerala. In my case, it is the fourth generation that is calling the UAE home now.' Looking ahead in Kerala Community members said Gafoor personally helped dozens from his town with paperwork and references for employment in Dubai. While he admitted he never kept count, he credited his wife of 45 years for connecting many job seekers through her network. Now back in Kerala, Gafoor plans to enjoy his homeland, reconnect with people, and oversee a company producing Arabic breads, which he had started 15 years ago. 'I've spent a lifetime building a career and helping others. Now it's time to explore life in Kerala,' he said.
