Syed Ullah Sakhaf, a Muslim businessman from Mangalwar Pet in Channapatna, Karnataka, has built a Hindu temple entirely with his own money. The stone temple, which cost over ₹1 crore, was inaugurated on Kannada Rajyotsava Day (November 1), drawing a large crowd of devotees from nearby areas.
The inauguration marked the conclusion of three days of religious and community programs, including Anna Dasoha (free food distribution). The land for the temple was donated by local residents Kempamma and Motegowda.
Sakhaf, who heads the SK Group, has earlier funded the construction of the Veerabhadreshwara Temple in Santeh Mogenahalli and also built a Hindu temple and a Muslim tomb in the same compound to promote peace and unity. Speaking at the inauguration, he said his goal was to set an example of brotherhood for the younger generation.
“If we do good work, our children will live well. Hindus worship in temples, Muslims pray in mosques — but everyone wishes for peace and happiness for their families,” said Sakhaf. “It is important for Hindus and Muslims to live together. If we move forward as brothers and sisters, India will develop. But if we fight each other, the country cannot progress. We should respect everyone so that India can lead the world.”
Local residents hailed Sakhaf’s gesture as a symbol of communal unity. “It is a matter of pride for Channapatna to have a man like Sayed Ullah Sakhaf among us,” said Boraiah, a local leader. “There is no difference between Hindus and Muslims in our village. This temple is a shining example of that harmony.”
Villagers recalled that the temple, which is over a century old, had fallen into ruins before Sakhaf decided to rebuild it. “This temple had been neglected for years. Syed Ullah rebuilt it out of generosity and devotion,” said Manjula, a resident.
The temple’s inauguration ceremony was conducted under the guidance of Vidwan Nagendra Shastri and Manjunath Aradhya, with support from the Sri Basaveshwara Vinayak Youth Group. The event concluded with special prayers led by Chandan, Mahesh, and Manoj, sons of the temple’s former priest, Mahadev.
