Memon Abdul Habeeb Yusuf Marfani: The Unsung Patriot Who Gave Everything for India's Freedom
In the annals of India's independence struggle, some stories shine brighter yet remain less known. One such tale is of Memon Abdul Habeeb Yusuf Marfani, a Gujarati businessman who built his empire in Rangoon. He made the remarkable choice to donate ₹1 crore in cash, plus ₹3 lakh in jewelry and property deeds to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s Indian National Army (INA) in 1944—a gesture of patriotism that eclipsed personal wealth.
(₹1 crore 3 lakh in 1944 ≈ ₹3,000 crore+ today)
Memon Abdul Habeeb Yusuf Marfani — a businessman originally from Dhoraji in Saurashtra — emerged as a remarkable, yet widely overlooked, figure in India’s freedom struggle. While most Gujaratis supported Mahatma Gandhi’s nonviolent methods, Marfani aligned himself with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s Indian National Army (INA). In a historic act of patriotism in 1944, he donated nearly his entire fortune—about Rs 1 crore—to the INA, a princely sum at the time.
Life and Background
Marfani hailed from a Memon family settled in Rangoon (now Yangon), Burma. The family had established a flourishing business there, enabling him to accumulate substantial wealth.
The Historic Contribution
On July 9, 1944, during a public gathering in Rangoon where Netaji relaunched the INA and called for support, Marfani stepped forward to make an unprecedented contribution to the Azad Hind Bank. He reportedly emptied a tray of cash, jewelry, and property documents before Netaji.
One account even mentions that he donated "everything he had" — with a total around Rs 1 crore and ₹3 lakh in jewelry and property deeds.
Recognition and Medal
Netaji was deeply moved by the gesture. Historian Yunus Chitalwala noted that Marfani was among the first, if not the first, to donate. Netaji awarded him the Sevak-e-Hind medal in gratitude.
Noble Resolve
After learning that Marfani had effectively become destitute, Netaji asked him what he wished in return. Marfani’s response was profound: “Give me the uniform of an INA soldier. I have donated my valuables. Now allow me to give my blood. I only want freedom for India and nothing else.”
Impact and Legacy
Marfani’s act inspired many others—rich and poor alike—to come forward and contribute whatever they could, solidifying the morale and strength of INA.
Despite his extraordinary sacrifice, his story has remained relatively obscure in mainstream history, often overshadowed by more prominent figures.
Why It Matters
- Patriotic Sacrifice: Marfani’s dedication exemplifies a selfless love for the nation, going beyond ideology or religion.
- Inspirational Legacy: His donation spurred a wave of support among expatriate Indians in Southeast Asia during WWII.
- Historical Remembrance: Remembering Marfani’s contribution highlights the broader, diverse efforts behind India’s freedom movement.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Memon Abdul Habeeb Yusuf Marfani |
| Origin | Dhoraji, Saurashtra; later settled in Rangoon |
| Donation Amount | Approximately ₹1 crore to the Indian National Army |
| Date of Contribution | July 9, 1944 |
| Recognition | Awarded "Sevak-e-Hind" medal by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose |
| Notable Quote | “Give me the uniform of an INA soldier…” |
Early Life & Rise in Rangoon
Born in Dhoraji, Saurashtra, Gujarati Memons—known for trade and philanthropy—often migrated to Southeast Asia. Marfani’s family settled in Rangoon, where he developed a thriving business network in trade and property.
The Life-Changing Donation — July 9, 1944
During a public rally in Rangoon, when Netaji reactivated the INA, Marfani stepped forward to contribute everything he had:
- ₹1 crore in cash (~3,000 crore today)
- ₹3 lakh in jewelry and property deeds (~₹30 crore today)
Netaji was visibly moved and said—“I feel very happy about what Seth Marfani has done … It is extremely commendable.” He then gave Marfani the Sevak-e-Hind medal, making him the first recipient.
Marfani, now destitute, humbly asked only for an INA uniform: “I have donated my valuables; now allow me to give my blood … I only want freedom for India and nothing else.”
Ripple Effects & Legacy
Marfani's sacrifice inspired countless others—workers, farmers, and ex-pat Indians—to contribute what little they could. His example galvanized support and unity across class lines.
Today, however, Marfani remains largely unrecognized. While his grandson was felicitated during Netaji’s birth centenary celebrations, official commemorations in his hometown barely mention his name.
Searchable FAQs: Key Questions & Clear Answers
Q1: Who was Memon Abdul Habeeb Yusuf Marfani?
A: A successful businessman from Dhoraji who donated his entire 1944 fortune—₹1 crore plus ₹3 lakh in jewelry/property—to support Netaji’s INA.
Q2: When did he make this historic donation?
A: On July 9, 1944, at a public rally in Rangoon when Netaji relaunched the INA.
Q3: How much did he donate, and what would that be worth today?
A: He donated ₹1 crore (₹3,000 crore today) and ₹3 lakh (₹30 crore today).
Q4: Was he officially recognized for the donation?
A: Yes—he was the first recipient of the “Sevak-e-Hind” medal, awarded by Netaji himself.
Q5: What did Marfani request in return?
A: Only an INA uniform to serve; he didn't seek fame or fortune.
Q6: How did his gesture influence others?
A: It inspired widespread support from Indian expats, laborers, and even small-time donors.
Q7: Is there documentation of this event?
A: Yes—reported in The Times of India, Milli Gazette, Siasat.com, and history blogs.
Q8: What happened to his family afterward?
A: They faced hardship. Some descendants returned to India and were honored during Netaji’s centenary.
Q9: Why is he not widely known today?
A: Overshadowed in mainstream narratives and limited official recognition has led to his story being overlooked.
Q10: How can we better honor his memory?
A: By including his story in history books, classrooms, memorials, and public commemorations.
Q11: Did any others in Burma also support the INA?
A: Yes. For example, traders like Ghulam Husein Mushtaq Randeri aided recruitment efforts.
Q12: What broader message does his story convey?
A: That sacrifice for freedom transcends wealth, religion, and recognition—he remains a timeless symbol of selfless patriotism.
Final Thoughts
Memon Abdul Habeeb Yusuf Marfani’s story is not just history—it’s a beacon. His unwavering dedication and ultimate sacrifice remain deeply inspiring, yet disturbingly under-remembered.
By acknowledging his actions, we honor not only his memory, but also the countless unsung heroes whose patriotic spirit fueled India’s freedom.
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