The Enduring Legacy of Meezan Hajiar

A.M.M.MUZAMMIL
A biography titled “The Legacy of Meezan Hajiar – A Life of Faith, Service and Vision” was ceremonially launched at the BMICH on Saturday, 13th December 2025. The prestigious event was graced by eminent legal luminary Mr. Faiz Musthapha, PC, as Chief Guest, with Dr. Sarath Amunugama attending as Guest of Honour, in the presence of a large and distinguished gathering representing all walks of life.
Although the publication primarily seeks to preserve the cherished memory and enduring legacy of Sathkorale Muhandiramlagedara Segu Abdul Cader Hajiar Mohamed Mohideen—widely known across the province as Meezan Hajiar—its contents transcend those of a conventional biography.
The narrative bears the hallmark of inspirational masterpieces reminiscent of Napoleon Hill and Dale Carnegie, offering profound management insights and motivational anecdotes designed to guide future generations. It serves as a compelling source of inspiration, encouraging readers to emulate Meezan Hajiar’s sterling personal qualities, exemplary work ethic, and unwavering commitment to success and personal excellence.
His remarkable journey began in 1925, at the tender age of twelve, when—armed only with his mother’s single sovereign of gold, his uncle’s meezan (a pair of weighing scales), and a cartload of betel leaves—he boldly ventured into the world of business.
This humble beginning was driven by an indomitable entrepreneurial spirit, steadfast perseverance, far-sighted vision, and a mindset akin to the prudent investment philosophy later epitomized by Warren Buffett.
Within a span of 53 illustrious years of his earthly sojourn, Meezan Hajiar not only built a formidable business empire—eventually encompassing over 3,500 acres of estates—but also selflessly devoted a significant portion of his wealth to charitable and religious causes.
Summarizing the salient features of this comprehensive 147-page volume is indeed a herculean task. However, for the convenience and clarity of readers, the narrative may be broadly categorized into three distinct phases, each of which played a pivotal role in shaping the life journey, character, and enduring success of Meezan Hajiar, as vividly captured in his biography.
The first phase represents a crucial period of stabilization, during which Meezan Hajiar laid a firm economic foundation through his engagement in the betel-leaves trade. At the time, the chewing of betel leaves was a widespread and fashionable social custom embraced by all communities in Ceylon, providing a steady and reliable source of income. Having achieved modest yet meaningful success in this venture, Meezan Hajiar demonstrated foresight and entrepreneurial acumen by prudently diversifying into other lucrative commodities—most notably pepper and cloves—thereby expanding his commercial footprint and setting the stage for future growth.
The second phase, spanning the 1940s, was a period of consolidation and rapid expansion. He capitalized on Ceylon’s World War II rubber boom by focusing on the rubber trade and ensuring uninterrupted supplies to Colombo through his own fleet of lorries. Building on this success, he diversified into plantations and commerce, acquiring the Ancoombra Estate in 1946, establishing Meezan Hardware Stores in Matale, and later expanding his planting legacy with the 1961 acquisition of the 2,400-acre Wariyapola Estates, which he developed into a diversified portfolio of tea, rubber, high-quality cocoa, and cardamom alongside trusted shareholders.
Following stabilization and consolidation, the third phase marked an era of transformation and empowerment. During this stage, Meezan Hajiar judiciously delegated responsibilities to trusted confidants to manage and expand operations.
One such confidant was his brother-in-law, Mr. M. K. N. S. Mohamed, fondly known as “Officer Mahaththaya.” His unwavering moral support played a pivotal role in Meezan Hajiar’s rapid expansion and strategic diversification into the plantation sector, where large estates were managed with notable success. Today, the late Mr. M. K. N. S. Mohamed’s eldest son, Mr. Ashraff, continues this legacy with the same zest and zeal in serving the Meezan enterprise.
While Meezan Hajiar seemed to possess a Midas touch—turning each venture into a success—his legacy was truly defined by his fairness and unimpeachable integrity. On one notable occasion, following a sharp rise in pepper prices, he voluntarily shared a substantial portion of his windfall—Rs. 7,000—with the original trader, the son of a former Chairman of the Rattota Town Council. This remarkable act stands as a testament to his principled approach and rare ethical character, as documented on page 51 of the biography.
Among his many enduring contributions were the construction of the Matale Town Mosque; the establishment of the Meezaniyyah Arabic College; the development of Zahira College, Matale; and his pivotal role in founding Ceylon House in Mecca, with the noble objective of ensuring the comfort and welfare of Sri Lankan pilgrims during their sacred journey to the Holy Lands. Through these selfless endeavors, he left behind a legacy firmly rooted in faith, service, and community upliftment.
Meezan Hajiar’s political career spanned from 1944 to 1963, during which he served on the Matale Urban Council and eventually held the office of Vice Chairman. He is best remembered as a kingmaker in Matale politics; indeed, the late A. C. S. Hameed entered the political arena entirely due to Meezan Hajiar’s patronage. A staunch UNP loyalist, he further demonstrated his commitment by financially supporting Alick Aluvihare’s successful 1961 by-election campaign.
For fifty-three years, Meezan Hajiar fashioned a life guided by purpose and anchored in principle. On the 16th of August 1964, he gently took his leave from this world. In a final, solemn tribute, the town of Matale stood still as a vast sea of humanity—men and women from every walk of life—gathered to honor a soul marked by humility and grace.
Today, his children and grandchildren carry his torch with steadfast faith, extending his vision beyond his time. As stated, “The Legacy of Meezan Hajiar – A Life of Faith, Service and Vision” is not merely a chronicle of an extraordinary life, but a timeless testament to enduring values—one that inspires future generations, especially aspiring entrepreneurs, by affirming that faith, integrity, and disciplined hard work ultimately yield lasting dividends.
With apologies to Elton John, “the candle has blown out, but the legend never will.”