Mangta Sheikh (1947-2024), the renowned contractor of Phagsoo (Thathri).

Nestled in the serene Figsoo village of then Tehsil Bhaderwah (now known as Phagsoo village in Phagsoo Tehsil of Thathri sub-division, Doda district), Mangta Sheikh was born in 1947 to a family rooted in simplicity and service. His father, Lal Din Sheikh, a registered hakeem, was a healer under the J&K Board of Ayurvedic and Unani Medicine. Though his beginnings were humble, Mangta Sheikh’s life would become an inspiring story of resilience, ingenuity, and indomitable spirit.

Thathri.com is honored to recount the life of this extraordinary man who, despite having limited formal education, rose to prominence as a celebrated contractor and engineer in ropeway construction.

Mangta Sheikh (left) and Florian Kropivinik (right) in 1971. (Photo: Thathri.com)

Mangta Sheikh’s education ended at the fifth grade, but his will to learn never ceased. As a laborer in his late twenties, his fate took a dramatic turn when he met Florian Kropivnik, an Austrian director of Kropivnik Cableways Pvt Ltd, during a project in Thathri. Impressed by Sheikh’s work ethic and natural aptitude, Kropivnik recognized his potential and took him under his wing.

With Kropivnik’s mentorship, Sheikh traveled to various construction sites, mastering skills that would soon define his career. It wasn’t long before his talents caught the attention of R.B. Jodhamal & Co. Private Limited, a company renowned for its engineering projects. Despite lacking formal qualifications, Sheikh’s work spoke volumes. He became a trusted hand, contributing to 31 major ropeway projects across Jammu & Kashmir and others in Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Shimla, and Chandigarh.

Mangta Sheikh's most remarkable contribution remains his expertise in ropeway engineering, a field that demands both precision and innovation. In the 1980s, the J&K State Forest Corporation acknowledged his exceptional capabilities and entrusted him with significant projects. This recognition was formalized in 1986 when Sheikh received his contractor license from the Public Works Department.

Mangta Sheikh reviewing work in Drabshalla in 1992. (Photo: Thathri.com)

One of the most compelling stories documented by Thathri.com is about the Gulmarg ropeway. Originally installed by a reputed company, the ropeway suffered severe damage in 1992. For over a decade, no one dared to undertake the repair. In 2003, Mangta Sheikh’s name surfaced as the man who could breathe life back into the project. With unmatched dedication and expertise, he reinstalled the ropeway, cementing his reputation as a master of his craft.

Mangta Sheikh (left) discussing with MD State Forest Corporation (right in blue shirt) in 1991. (Photo: Thathri.com)

Mangta Sheikh’s personal life was as challenging as his professional one. He was a father of seven—three sons and four daughters—but tragedy struck his family repeatedly. In 2007, he lost one of his sons in a devastating fire. A year later, a bus accident claimed the life of one of his daughters. These heartbreaks never deterred him from fulfilling his responsibilities, both as a family man and a professional.

After decades of contributions to the infrastructure of Jammu & Kashmir and beyond, Mangta Sheikh passed away in 2024 after a prolonged illness. His legacy, however, continues to inspire. His journey from a laborer in Figsoo to a celebrated contractor fixing ropeways in Gulmarg is a testament to resilience, skill, and determination.

Thathri.com takes pride in preserving and sharing the stories of remarkable individuals like Mangta Sheikh. His life serves as a beacon of hope for those who dare to dream beyond their circumstances. From his early struggles to his monumental achievements, Mangta Sheikh’s story is one that deserves to be told, remembered, and celebrated.

For generations to come, his contributions will remain etched in the landscapes he helped shape, and his story will continue to inspire those who visit Thathri.com to learn about the unsung heroes of our region.

Previous Post Next Post