“He was a very kind, giving and generous man."
A popular Desi Elvis Presley impersonator from Birmingham has died a few weeks after contracting Covid-19.
Mujahid Mukhtar, better known as Muj Presley, performed at various events across the city dressed in rhinestone-encrusted jumpsuits and sunglasses.
The 54-year-old from Yardley Wood did a lot of charity work and also owned Mukhtar Sweet Centre in Small Heath.
It is believed he passed away after contracting Covid-19.
Since the news of his death, hundreds of tributes have been paid.
His best friend and Radio XL presenter Mohammed Basharat spoke of his devastation when he heard the news and said Muj was a “larger than life figure, and amazing human being”.
Mr Basharat worked with Muj as part of Melody Masters International, a community-based charity.
He said: “The reason we all know him is his fanatical love for the great and late Elvis Presley. Hence the title Muj Presley.
“He would often go to Graceland, Memphis, where Elvis was born and gather with the other fans.
“He performed in all the melas including Big Johns in Cannon Hill Park and on the Soho Road.
“When he was on stage – he was Elvis Presley.
“He was a very kind, giving and generous man. He was a big supporter of MMI. The crowd loved him.
“His day job was at the family business. Muj would tell me the story of how his father started the sweet centre business and then his uncle and later how he came on board. He was a grafter.”
Majid Mahmood, councillor for Bromford & Hodge Hill, said:
“I met him a number of times at events and he was always the headline act.
“I had the pleasure of sitting at the same table with him at a event a few years back where he kept us entertained throughout the evening and we got to know a really unique, genuine and sincere person.
“He also did a huge amount of charity work in the city including with Melody Masters.
“He was a very humble, family orientated individual. A legend who will be sorely missed.”
Many others took to Facebook to share their grief of Muj’s passing.
Paul Gary-Share wrote: “So sad hear the passing of a true gentleman Muj Presley. You will be sadly missed RIP brother.”
Lee Newsome posted:
“Absolutely and totally devastated to have lost an absolute giant of a man and a true friend and brother Muj Presley. I just cannot believe you have gone.
“We will never forget you Muj, this world is a darker place without you in it.”
“Heaven has gained a true angel, I will miss you so much.”
Jaguriti Duggal commented: “After reading and then confirmed to hear Muj Presley sadly passed away.
“A great entertainer the Asian ‘Elvis Presley’ always putting smiles on faces.
“When out of his costume and not being a performer he honestly was a great guy, very humble, a deep thinker and a great believer in God.
“When he invited us to his shop Mukhtars then showed us around and making mum and I dress up in his Elvis jacket… memories, smiles and laughter.
“You seriously will be missed dearly, a guy respected and loved by many.
“Condolences to his family and I’m sure Muj will be entertaining everyone above. RIP dear friend.”
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