Mangaluru : M. Mudeyappa Malagi, an 85-year-old man from Yandigeri village in Bagalkot district, passed away, leaving behind a legacy in Mangaluru, where he was fondly remembered as the “Samosa Ajja.” Malagi sold samosas, chikkis, and other treats at St Aloysius High School and College for over 40 years, endearing himself to generations of students with his kindness and jovial nature.

Condolences poured in on social media after news of his death reached the coastal town on Wednesday. Many former students of St Aloysius College shared their memories of Malagi, who became an iconic figure on the campus, selling snacks in his traditional white kurta, dhoti, and Gandhi cap.

Malagi’s popularity extended beyond the school as he was featured on Radio Sarang, a channel of St Aloysius College, and was often celebrated in skits and YouTube videos. In 2020, when he was affected by the COVID-19 lockdown, the 1989 batch of students provided him with financial support.

Despite being from a small village, Malagi became a beloved figure in Mangaluru, where his simple presence left a lasting impression on the community.