THATTA: It was a sad day for people in Thatta and Sujawal districts on Thursday as they bid farewell to their beloved philanthropist and an icon of Sindhi chivalry and gentlemanship, Syed Altaf Hussain, affectionately called ‘Banana King’ for his vast trade in the tropical fruit.

A staunch advocate for girls’ education and a trailblazer in raising awareness, especially among girls, late Hussain was a household name for his selfless acts of philanthropy during natural disasters.

He was buried in historic Makli graveyard, leaving behind a shining legacy of compassion and generosity.

He was always seen wearing traditional white Sindhi Patko (turban) and sporting grey beard and prominent moustache which added a peculiar charm to his personality.

He embodied the spirit of an old-fashioned patriot as he famously rode a white horse during election campaigns, which instantly captured hearts of local populace.

Hussain contested for NA-237 on a ticket of Pakistan People’s Party-Shaheed Bhutto and fought neck and neck with PPP’s Babu Ghulam Hussain.

Though he lost by a thin margin, he left an indelible mark on the minds of the electorate. His triumph finally came in 2004 when he emerged victorious in local government elections.

Thatta’s political leaders and civil society recalled Hussain’s life and said that during natural disasters of 1994 and 2010 super floods that wreaked havoc across Thatta’s coastline, he tirelessly worked day and night and devoted his own resources to aid the administration to overcome the crisis.

He had deep connection with people. Whether in times of celebration or adversity, he stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the downtrodden, sharing equally in their joys and sorrows. He always made his presence felt at weddings of the poor, national events and even protests.

Large crowds of people from all walks of life gathered in Makli to pay respects to their beloved celebrity.

Published in Dawn, September 2nd, 2023