KSRTC busload of friends, relatives arrive at Karipur to welcome ‘Gafoorka’ — here’s why

Kottakkal (Malappuram): Residents of Karipur gave ‘Gafoorka’ the shock of his life, in the most heart-warming way possible. When the much-loved native landed at Karipur airport, he was met with a surprise homecoming with garlands, bouquets and a grand surprise reception.

A large group of relatives and well-wishers, who had hired a KSRTC bus for the occasion, stood waiting with broad smiles and loud cheers. The moment Ghafoorka stepped out, he was ushered onto the bus amid applause and joyful shouts, beginning the journey to his birthplace, Maruthinchira.

A loud microphone announcement erupted as the bus arrived in his hometown of Maruthinchira: "Our dearest Gafoorka has arrived!" Almost instantly, the sound of firecrackers lit up the celebration.

This reception was organised jointly by the KKB Citizens Forum and the YSSC to honour the return of 65-year-old Ghafoor Thayyil after 51 years of life abroad. To make the event unique, a KSRTC bus was rented from the Ponnani depot, specially for the day.

Gafoorka had no idea about any of these plans. From the moment he boarded from Dubai that morning by an Indigo flight at 10 a.m.

The reason for this outpouring of love is Gafoorka has long been known for his generosity. Over the decades, countless people from Maruthinchira have gone to the Gulf with his help; he helped them to the Gulf without a desire to get a single rupee in return. How will the community forget his good deeds? “Thank you to all my fellow villagers who gave me such a warm welcome. I am very happy,” he said. He also said that, he wish to continue with deeds that benefit society, with the blessings of the Almighty.

The eldest of five children born to Khader Haji and Biriyamu of the Thayyil family, Ghafoor left for the Gulf with his father at the age of 13, without having any formal schooling. He first worked at a supermarket in Ajman, later moving to a hotel job. Recently, he retired after serving as PR Manager for the Jumeirah Group for 28 years. He now returned to Maruthinchira with his wife and three children.

Ward Member Mubashir Ameer presided over the reception programme in Maruthinchira, which was inaugurated by Panchayat Vice-President Umarali Karekkad.