Bhatkal: Dr. S.M. Syed Khaleelur Rehman, a prominent leader and community figure, was laid to rest in Dubai amidst thousands of mourners.

People from Bhatkal and its surrounding areas, residing in Dubai and across the UAE, gathered in large numbers to pay their final respects, reflecting the deep admiration for his lifetime contributions and services.

According to Mr. Jailani Mohtisham, General Secretary of the Bhatkal Muslim Jamaat, all legal formalities were completed by the afternoon. The body was transported to the Al Qusais Cemetery Mosque (Sonapur) at around 3:30 PM, where thousands attended to catch a final glimpse of the departed leader. After the Maghrib prayer, the mosque's Imam delivered a heartfelt address, recounting Dr. Khaleel Saheb’s virtues, community service, and their personal bond. The burial was performed shortly after at the adjacent cemetery.

To facilitate attendance, the Bhatkal Jamaat in Dubai arranged three buses from the Al Ras area, enabling many residents from Bhatkal and nearby regions to participate in the funeral rites. Attendees included not just Dubai residents but also individuals from Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and other Gulf cities. Relatives of Dr. Khaleel from Bhatkal also traveled to Dubai for the solemn occasion.

Mr. Jailani Mohtisham described the turnout as unprecedented. "It was the first time I have seen such a large gathering at a cemetery in Dubai," he remarked. The gathering included nearly every Bhatkali resident working in Dubai, along with individuals from Murdeshwar, Manki, Valki, Honnavar, Kumta, Karwar, Udupi, and Mangalore.

A condolence meeting has been scheduled by the Bhatkal Jamaat for Friday, November 22, at 8:30 PM at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Deira, Dubai. Mr. Jailani Mohtisham has urged residents of Bhatkal and surrounding areas in Dubai to attend and join in prayers for the deceased.

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