Tribute to Omim Maneckshaw Debara: Hyderabad’s Heritage Hero

Mr. Omim Debara’s roots trace back to the vibrant land of Gujarat. His grandparents hailed from the charming towns of Chikli and Navsari, where they left their mark by establishing the Dadabhoy Italia School and an Agiyari, in Chikli respectively. The Debara family’s adventurous spirit led them to traverse the distance from Gujarat to Hyderabad in traditional bullock carts, driven by the allure of business opportunities.

The Rise of the Debaras

The Debara family began their Hyderabad journey with a liquor business, eventually buying a house called Din Lodge. Mr. Omim’s grandfather, Hormazji Pestonji Debara, identified the lack of oil mills in the city and established one, marking the family’s entry into the industrial sector. On the maternal side, his grandfather, Dinshawji Dadabhoy, was a prominent figure, serving as the first member of Parliament in independent India and as the Nizam’s Defence and Railway Advisor. One of the first Airway that was started- Deccan Airways, Omim’s uncle (mama) Mr. Italia was Director Finance and Advisor.

The Dynamic Mr. Omim Debara

Mr. Omim Debara’s father worked in the excise department of Osmanabad, which was slated to become part of Mumbai State. On the day he was transferred, he tragically passed away at the young age of 40. Born and raised in Hyderabad, Mr. Omim Debara’s life took a turn; he, his younger brother and cousins were sent to St. Joseph’s Boarding School in Coonoor, where he thrived and developed a lifelong passion for learning. Though he aspired to be a doctor or join the armed forces, destiny led him to become an engineer, ultimately serving as the Chief Engineer at VST Industries Ltd. He also played a pivotal role as a trustee of the Parsi Zoroastrian Anjuman of Hyderabad and Secunderabad.

Omim Debara’s name carries a fascinating tale. Initially named after his grandfather Hormuzji due to astrology and tradition, young Omim fell ill soon after. Concerned for his well-being, the family decided to change his name. It was during this time that his aunt, returning from Russia, brought back the name “Omim” with her. Captivated by its uniqueness, she bestowed this name upon him.

A Passionate Social Activist

Mr. Debara was more than just an engineer; he was a fervent social activist dedicated to preserving Hyderabad’s heritage and improving its community. His fearless crusade saw him challenging injustices, such as when he fought against private hospitals for not providing free treatment to the poor, a condition under which they were allotted prime land. His efforts led to significant legal victories and policy changes that benefited the underprivileged.

Memories of Old Hyderabad

Mr. Debara’s stories paint a vivid picture of old Hyderabad. From the well-maintained roads and the disciplined lifestyle to the lush gardens and the city’s lakes, his nostalgia transports us to a time when the city was a serene haven. He fondly recalls his grandparents’ house at Khammam (district headquarters) which was close to the railway station. In those nostalgic days, whenever the grandchildren had to return home, Mr. Debara’s grandfather had a special arrangement: he would contact the station master at the previous stop, who would signal the approaching train to hoot loudly. Upon hearing the cheerful sound, Mr. Debara’s grandmother would swiftly do the traditional “sagan” and “tilo,” and the children would walk over with a garland (“haar”) as the train would be waiting for them at the station. It was a time of pure joy and anticipation for the entire family.

The Debara Aramgah

In a lesser-known yet intriguing facet of history, the Debara family dedicated a piece of their land to create an aramgah, a resting place, named the Debara Aramgah. This gesture highlights their commitment to their community and their cultural heritage.

Celebrating a Life Well-Lived

Mr. Omim Debara’s life was a testament to his dedication to his community, his passion for social justice, and his love for Hyderabad. His fearless activism, ranging from working in slums to influencing policy changes, made a lasting impact.

Farewell to a Visionary Leader

Mr. Debara passed away on August 24, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, courage, and commitment to the betterment of society. As we bid farewell, we honour Mr. Omim Debara’s life—a journey through time that resonates with resilience, integrity, and a profound love for Hyderabad.

May his soul rest in peace, and may his inspiring journey continue to motivate future generations .

Freny Daruwalla wrote this piece in collaboration with Parzor exclusively for the Parsi Zoroastrians Worldwide – The Hyderabadi Page