Bhicajee Cowasjee: A Prominent Figure and Pioneer of Commerce in Aden
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Bhicajee Cowasjee was a prominent figure in the history of Aden, a British colony located in modern-day Yemen. Born in India in 1844, he was a Parsee like Cowasjee Dinshaw. In 1871, Cowasjee moved to Aden and started a business that would eventually become one of the most successful trading companies in the region.
Cowasjee began his business in Aden with just a few employees, importing goods from India and other parts of Asia and exporting them to markets in Africa and the Middle East. His business rapidly grew, thanks to his astute business sense, hard work, and dedication to customer service. As a reliable and trustworthy merchant, his business expanded to include a wide range of products, from textiles and spices to tobacco and firearms.
Despite facing stiff competition from other traders and navigating a complex web of regulations and tariffs imposed by the British colonial government, Cowasjee persevered and built a business empire that would endure for generations.
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In addition to his business activities, Cowasjee was a philanthropist and community leader in Aden. He supported various charitable organizations and played an active role in local civic affairs, including serving as a member of the Aden Municipal Council.
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Bhicajee's legacy can still be seen in Aden, where his company, Bhicajee Sons & Co., remains a major player in the region's trade and commerce. His example of hard work, dedication, and service to the community continues to inspire generations of entrepreneurs and leaders in Aden and beyond.
The Cowasjee family owned several businesses, including the Shenaz Cinema and Shalimar Dance Bar, which were later taken over by the Motiwala brothers, grandsons of Bhicajee. They also took over the Bhicajee Cowasjee shop in The Crescent. The family had a shop in Crater and extensive business interests. After 1967, the Motiwala brothers moved to the Gulf.
Interesting anecdotes from Bhicajee's life involve Colonel Arthur John Doig, who died testate on 14 July 1888. Colonel Doig was indebted to Bhicajee, which resulted in Bhicajee receiving £1,226, 6s. 6d from the estate in partial satisfaction.
In 1961, 'Melody Corner' was located in the Cowasjee Dinshaw building with a large sign above the door, "Bhicajee Cowasjee". An enduring legacy is his range of postcards which are traded on eBay today.
In conclusion, Bhicajee Cowasjee of Aden was a pioneer of commerce and a leader in his community. His entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence helped him build a successful business that endured for generations. He was a model of integrity, honesty, and service to others, and his legacy continues to inspire people today.
