Kozhikode: Padma Shri awardee Ali Manikfan has finally got a roof of his own after a long wait. Hailing from Lakhswadweep, 85-year Manikfan is known for the roles of ecologist, shipbuilder, marine researcher, and is a polyglot too. However, he and his wife Subaida were not economically sound enough to afford a house even in their later years. 

The couple migrated to Kozhikode in 2017. For over seven years, the couple had been relocating from one place to another, living as tenants. Finally, they have a house of their own in Kodiyathur here due to the support of noble hearts. Many see it as a tribute to a man who has given exemplary contributions to society in multifarious ways. 

The house and eight-cent plot have been donated by Kodiyathur native and NRK businessman-engineer VK Abdulla. His son architect Ashique Abdulla designed the house. 

With a sigh of relief and fresh hopes, Manikfan and his wife entered the new house named 'New Moon' on Sunday.