Muhammad Ibrahim, a 76-year-old resident of Pulimoodu in Tholikode, Thiruvananthapuram, has carved out a unique niche for himself by selling honey-soaked gooseberries, a product he buys from the lush hills of Wayanad. His enterprise is not just about selling a popular regional delicacy; it’s about connecting with people, particularly tourists, who are eager to taste authentic products from Kerala’s famed regions. Ibrahim’s business thrives in tourist hotspots, where the demand for these traditional treats is high.
Each day, Ibrahim starts on a journey of approximately 30 kilometres to reach Tholikuzhi, where he sets up his small but vibrant stall. For many, such a daily commute might seem exhausting, but for Ibrahim, it’s just another part of his life’s routine. When he looks back on his life’s path, he doesn’t see the distance as a burden. Instead, he views it as a necessary step in his journey, one that brings him closer to his customers and allows him to share a piece of Wayanad with them. The name ‘Wayanad gooseberries’ alone is enough to stir cravings, drawing people to his stall in search of this local delicacy.
Despite being well into the age where most people have settled into a comfortable retirement, Ibrahim remains active and committed to his work. While his peers may be enjoying a more leisurely pace of life, Ibrahim continues to explore new tourist destinations, always in the role of a dedicated vendor. He sells each gooseberry for Rs 10.
His strategy of focusing on Wayanad’s famous products, particularly those with a strong local identity, resonates with tourists who are eager to sample the authentic flavours of the region. This approach has not only kept his business alive but also made it thrive, even as he competes with other vendors in busy tourist spots. Ibrahim’s daily efforts are a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. His story is a powerful reminder that the drive to work and succeed doesn’t diminish with age.
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