Source: Muslims in India, A Biographical Dictionary, Edited with an introduction by Naresh Kumar Jain, Published by Manohar, New Delhi, 1979 {India Office, V22587} Vol I, p 142

Chotani, Mian Mohammad Haji Jan Mohammad (1873-1932) Bombay merchant, Khilafat leader Belonged to Halai Memon Community; b 10 Nov 1873; grew up in religious surroundings; was a prosperous Govt contractor and timber merchant of Bombay. Was mem of Cttee to formulate a scheme of reforms, 8th Session of All India Muslim League, Bombay, Dec 1915; presided over a mass meeting (15-20 thousand) of Bombay Muslims at Nagpada, 19 Mar 1919, which adopted resolutions on Khilafat issue and also authorized the establishment of a Khilafat Cttee. Pres Provl Khilafat Cttee (later called Cent Khilafat Cttee of India) Bombay, Nov 1919; mem of Deputation to Viceroy, Jan 1920, on the Khilafat issue; mem Sub-Cttee (set up by Khilafat Cent Cttee, May 1920) to work out a scheme for th eintitiation of Non-Cooperation; re-elected Pres (and also Treasurer), Cent Khilafat Cttee, Bombay, Jan 1922; mem Second Khilafat Deputation to Europe, Feb 1921; was a signatory to a Manfesto regarding Turkish Peace Terms, 1922; came in for considerable criticism for his administration of the Angora Fund as 17 lakhs out of it had been diverted to his own use; later he handed over to CKC two saw mills (valued at 18 lakhs) as compensation. Was also associated with Indian National Congress; mem Cong Cttee to draw up a scheme of employment for those who gave up govt service (appt by Cong Working Cttee, Bardoli, Feb 1922); mem Civil Disobedience Enquiry Cttee (appt by All India Congress Committee, Lucknow, Jun 1922) but was unable to take part in either the tour or meetings of the Cttee. On his joining the Khilafat Movement was cold-shouldered by the Govt and was not given futher business contracts; was offered a baronetcy on condition of his severing all contacts with the Khilafat Movement but he refused. Died in Medina, Jun 1932, while undertaking Haj.

Sources: Memons International Directory; Histories of the Non-Cooperation and Khilafat Movements; R. Kumar (ed), Essays on Gandhian Politics - The Rowlatt Satyagraha of 1919; History of Indian National Congress, Vol I; Foundations of Pakistan, All India Muslim League Documents, Vol I.