Mohammed Kolugege

(K.G. Mohammed)

Environmental Protector | Cultural Revivalist | Songwriter | Community Leader
Minicoy Island, Lakshadweep

Mohammed Kolugege, popularly known as K.G. Mohammed, is one of the most distinguished sons of Minicoy (Maliku) in the Lakshadweep. A lifelong environmental advocate, cultural revivalist, educationist, and songwriter, he has devoted decades to protecting the fragile island ecosystem while preserving the rich cultural heritage of his homeland.

In 2024, he received international recognition through the prestigious Seacology Prize, becoming the first-ever international award winner from Lakshadweep.

 

Environmental Leadership & Conservation

Mr. Kolugege has dedicated his life to safeguarding Minicoy’s natural resources and marine biodiversity. His key environmental contributions include:

Promoting eco-friendly Pole & Line tuna fisheries across Lakshadweep in collaboration with the Fisheries Department and local experts from Minicoy.

Advocating for the preservation of historic shipwrecks off Minicoy and other islands, which have evolved into thriving coral reef habitats.

Working closely with local communities, fisherfolk, and authorities to establish marine reserves and promote sustainable fishing practices.

Supporting initiatives that led to measurable recovery in fish stocks and marine ecosystems.

He also represented island environmental interests at the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) World Conference held in Jeju-do, South Korea, in 2012, and participated in a special marine conservation program in Madagascar in 2015 focusing on Octopus Closures, Seagrass, and Sea Cucumber Culture.

 

Cultural Revival & Heritage Preservation

Alongside environmental activism, Mr. Kolugege has been a central figure in preserving Minicoy’s unique cultural identity:

Revived the traditional Lava Dance in the early 1980s with assistance from Fonimau Vili of Falessery village.

Played a major role in promoting Bandiya dance, especially as a folk song writer, in collaboration with renowned dance teacher Mr. Ibrahim Kudahaji.

Contributed to the revival and promotion of traditional boat races.

Curated and supported cultural preservation initiatives showcased in the Maliku Natural & Cultural Heritage Museum, supported by Seacology.

Played a pivotal role in introducing Mahal language typography and establishing a Mahal Press in Minicoy.

His literary and musical contributions earned him the Best Folk Song Award from the Lakshadweep Sahitya Kala Academy.

 

Education & Institutional Contributions

A pioneer in education, Mr. Kolugege:

Completed BAEd (1978) from the erstwhile Regional College of Education Mysore, becoming the first person from Lakshadweep to complete a four-year integrated education course.

Became the first BEd holder from Minicoy Island.

Served as President of the PTA of the School Complex, Minicoy.

Became the first Coordinator of the Parent Teacher Council (PTC) of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya Minicoy, possibly the longest-serving coordinator.

Served as a member and interpreter in the special committee for preparing Mahal textbooks under guidance from the Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL) and supervision of Late M. Ali Ismail Umeri.

 

Public Service Career

Mr. Kolugege retired from Government service in 2011 after 32 years of dedicated service (1979–2011):

Mahal Translator, Department of Education

Senior Publicity Officer, Department of Information & Public Relations

Earlier served as Field Assistant in the Department of Fisheries

His public service career combined communication, language development, and community outreach.

 

Community Leadership

Founder of Funhilol Friends Club (FFC), the first local sporting club in Minicoy (early 1970s).

Founder and Life Member of the Maliku Development Society (MDS) and currently one of its Patrons.

President of the recently established NGO, Maliku Natives Welfare Association.

 

Awards & Recognition

Mr. Mohammed Kolugege’s contributions have been widely recognized:

Seacology Prize (2024)

Priyadarshini Paryavaran Puraskar (2013)

Best Folk Song Award – Lakshadweep Sahitya Kala Academy

Silver Medal for outstanding services during Census Operations

About the Seacology Award

The Seacology Award includes a Plaque, USD 10,000 cash prize, and a visit to the United States. It recognizes individuals who make exceptional contributions toward preserving island ecosystems and cultures. The award ceremony for Mr. Kolugege was held on October 14, 2024, at the David Brower Center in Berkeley.

 

Legacy

Mohammed Kolugege stands as a rare combination of environmental guardian, cultural custodian, educator, public servant, and songwriter. His life’s work reflects a deep-rooted commitment to:

Protecting fragile island ecosystems

Preserving indigenous culture and language

Empowering communities through education and sustainable practices

His journey from Minicoy to international recognition is not merely personal achievement—it is a proud milestone in the history of Lakshadweep.