Billionaire carries coffin of employee in a rare and touching display of compassion, proving that leadership is not just about wealth and power but about humanity and responsibility. Indian billionaire and chairman of Lulu Group, MA Yusuff Ali, carried the coffin of his deceased employee, Shihabuddin, who passed away due to a heart attack in Abu Dhabi.
This profound gesture not only showcased his deep respect for his workforce but also resonated widely, garnering admiration and appreciation from people across the world.
Shihabuddin, who worked as a supervisor at the Lulu Hypermarket in Al Wahda Mall, Abu Dhabi, hailed from Thirur Kanmanam in Kerala, India. His sudden demise left his colleagues and family in grief.
Ali’s decision to personally carry his employee’s coffin during the funeral prayer demonstrated his unwavering commitment to his employees, treating them not just as workers but as an extended family.
This heartfelt moment was captured and shared on social media by Ali, evoking strong emotional reactions. Many users lauded his humility and humanity, stating that this is exactly what a true leader should be like.
A Leader Who Leads by Example
MA Yusuff Ali’s actions are a testament to the kind of leader he is. Billionaires are often perceived as distant and disconnected from their employees, but Ali has broken that stereotype time and again.
His involvement in Shihabuddin’s final rites went beyond mere obligation; it was a mark of genuine care and respect. Leading by example, he has shown that true leadership transcends financial success and is deeply rooted in human values.
The Lulu Group, which Ali heads, employs thousands of workers from various countries, particularly from India, the Philippines, and other South Asian nations. His presence at the funeral highlighted the significance of treating employees with dignity and compassion.
Read : Bizarre! Man Fined 8 Times for Driving Too Slow on Abu Dhabi-Dubai Highway
It sent a strong message to corporate leaders worldwide, emphasizing that employees are not just cogs in the corporate machine but integral members of a larger family. His willingness to personally participate in the funeral proceedings left an indelible mark on many, inspiring respect and admiration.
The social media response was overwhelmingly positive, with many netizens praising Ali’s humility and humanity. Comments such as “This is what a boss should be” and “This is the true meaning of leadership” flooded his posts. Such reactions underscore the public’s appreciation for leaders who go beyond professional obligations and exhibit genuine empathy.
Extending a Helping Hand Beyond the Workplace
This is not the first time MA Yusuff Ali has stepped forward to help those in need. His philanthropic efforts have been well-documented, and he has repeatedly demonstrated his commitment to uplifting the underprivileged.
Another instance that highlights his generosity is his intervention in the case of a Kerala woman, Sandhya, who was evicted from her home due to an unpaid loan.
Sandhya’s story became widely known after it was reported by Malayalam media. She and her husband had taken a loan of ₹4 lakh from Manappuram Finance in 2019 to build their house in North Paravur, Kerala. However, after her husband abandoned her and their children in 2021, she struggled to make ends meet and failed to keep up with loan repayments.
Over time, the outstanding loan amount grew to nearly ₹8 lakh, including accumulated interest. After multiple warnings, the finance company took legal action and foreclosed on the house, leaving Sandhya and her children homeless.
When MA Yusuff Ali learned about her plight, he immediately took action. He instructed his team in India to clear Sandhya’s outstanding loan and also provided her with ₹10 lakh in additional financial support.
His timely intervention not only restored her home but also gave her and her children a renewed sense of hope. This act of kindness further cemented his reputation as a business leader who genuinely cares about the well-being of those in need.
A Legacy of Compassion and Philanthropy
MA Yusuff Ali’s life and career are built on a foundation of hard work, vision, and compassion. Born in Nattika, a small village in Kerala, he moved to the UAE as a young man and gradually built one of the largest retail chains in the Middle East.
Lulu Group today operates hypermarkets, shopping malls, and other businesses across several countries, providing employment to thousands. Despite his immense success, he has never forgotten his roots, and his philanthropic contributions are a reflection of his gratitude towards society.
His contributions extend beyond individual cases like Shihabuddin and Sandhya. Over the years, he has made significant donations to healthcare, education, and disaster relief efforts.
Whether it is funding hospitals in India, providing aid during the Kerala floods, or supporting Indian expatriates in distress, Ali has always been at the forefront of humanitarian efforts. His initiatives reflect a strong commitment to social responsibility, setting an example for other corporate leaders to follow.
His actions serve as a powerful reminder that success is not just measured in wealth but in the impact one has on others. By carrying the coffin of his employee, leading funeral prayers, and supporting those in distress, MA Yusuff Ali has demonstrated a rare and invaluable quality—compassion in leadership.
At a time when corporate culture is often criticized for being impersonal and profit-driven, Ali’s actions stand out as a beacon of hope. His ability to connect with people at a human level and offer tangible support sets him apart. His deeds reaffirm that the true measure of a leader is not just in their business acumen but in their ability to touch lives with kindness and humility.
The world needs more leaders like MA Yusuff Ali, who not only amass wealth but also use their resources to make a meaningful difference.
Whether it is carrying the coffin of a loyal employee, helping a struggling woman reclaim her home, or continuously engaging in philanthropic efforts, he has shown that leadership is about service, not status. His story is one that will continue to inspire and remind us all of the power of compassion in leadership.