How this visually impaired woman set up a thriving food business in Kerala; clocks Rs4 lakh monthly turnover

When life throws the toughest challenges, not one but many, what keeps one going? Jasmine, the founder of Appoos Foods in Kerala's Thoduppuzha, knows the answer.

Her story is not just about building a successful business of handmade neyyappam (rice-based sweet fritters). It is also about her unwavering determination, hope, and refusal to be defined by life’s obstacles despite complete loss of eyesight over a period of ten years.

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When life challenges

Jasmine got married to Aji in 1998 and they had a son, Akhil, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. This led to years of travel to various cities like Manipal, Chennai, and Kottayam for treatments, trying everything from physiotherapy to alternative methods like acupressure and Ayurveda. Despite their efforts, his condition showed no improvement. In 2001, Jasmine developed a nerve issue and within 10 years, she lost her eyesight.

"I remember feeling helpless when my son was struggling and my health, especially eyesight, was deteriorating. It seemed like life was testing me at every step, but I knew I couldn’t give up. I had to keep going—for my family, for my son, and myself," Jasmine tells 30 Stades.

When faith leads the way

At this time, a visit to Velankanni Church was the turning point in Jasmine’s life. "The church father advised me to start a small business or to keep myself engaged and bring positivity into my life. It was a simple idea, yet deeply meaningful. I had always wanted to do something of my own,” she says. 

After completing her degree in economics, she took up home science, stitching, and beauty courses, to start a small business and create opportunities for others too. “But life at home, with my son and ailing mother-in-law, didn’t leave much room for it. Encouraged by the church father’s words, I decided to leap," Jasmine says.

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She began making neyyappams, which are served as an offering in temples and churches in Kerala. She used the traditional recipe to make the first batch and shared it with her family and friends. They loved the taste. Her husband Aji, who ran a grocery store, suggested selling them there.

"At that time, I still had my vision, and my health wasn't as bad.  I started small - just 2 kg of rice and one helper. I would make small quantities and sell them,” she says.

“I remember the first day I put some packs up for sale – they were all gone in just two hours," she recalls, stating that the overwhelming response planted the seed for Appoos Foods.

When small steps bloom

In 2005, Jasmine officially set up Appoos Foods after her son's nickname. With one stove and two helpers, she began producing neyyappams regularly. Word spread quickly, and soon vendors began approaching her for larger orders.

But Jasmine’s health began to deteriorate. Severe pain near her eyes forced her to stop production for nine months. When she resumed, her vision had worsened significantly. 

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"I was diagnosed with a condition called Retinitis Pigmentosa. My vision slowly started diminishing. But I did not want this challenge to pull me down,” she says. 

“Instead, I trained myself to adapt. In the initial phase itself, I started practising doing daily chores by closing my eyes," she adds.

When opportunity knocks

In 2009, Jasmine received her first large order: 1,200 kg of neyyappams for the Alphonso Church festival in Pala, Kottayam. At the time, she had just four staff members. Determined to deliver, she set up a temporary tent, rented cooking equipment, and hired additional workers. Over ten days, her team completed the order, marking a turning point for Appoos Foods.

By 2010, she and her husband set up a small mill near their home, allowing them to supply neyyappams to churches, wholesalers, and retailers. In 2013, the business expanded further with semi-automatic machinery and a team of 12 staff members.

When resilience is the only option

"By 2011, I had completely lost my vision. However, by then, I had learned to do everything on my own,” she says.

Today, she can inspect the size and texture of neyyappams just by touch and feel. “I also handle the finances.”

She makes one person note down everything and gives out salaries to the staff. “Besides, I always step in to mix the batter, packing, and other such tasks," Jasmine adds.

Jasmine’s business faced challenges during the pandemic, with a drop in demand for neyyappams, as shops, and churches were closed down. But instead of giving up, she and her husband Aji diversified. She introduced new products like rice flour, wheat flour, ragi flour, avalose podi, millet flour, and puttu flour, ensuring her staff remained employed. "While I take care of the neyyappam production, my husband takes care of the flour mill," she says.

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When efforts pay off

Today, Appoos Foods produces an average of 1,500 kg of neyyappams monthly, with daily production ranging from 60 to 180 kilograms. There are also busy days when the daily production goes up to 700 kg. During the peak season, especially for the Alphonso Church festival in July, production soars to over 7,000 kg in just 10 days, supported by a team of 34 workers, and the revenue for this month alone goes up to Rs 14 lakh per month.

"The wholesale price of our neyyappams is Rs220 per kg, and the retail price is Rs 40 for a 132-gm packet. During our peak season in July, our revenue can reach up to Rs 9 lakh per month.” 

However, the production is based on orders, so it varies throughout the year. “We primarily serve markets in Idukki and Kottayam, supplying churches, shops, and wholesalers regularly,” Jasmine notes.

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When love builds community

Jasmine’s staff isn’t just her workforce; they’re her family. She encourages them to save through post office savings accounts, helping them secure their futures. Many have achieved financial stability, even buying gold.

Her son, now 26, remains wheelchair-bound but finds joy in being part of the bustling work environment. “He tries to talk to the staff, and they treat him like their own,” Jasmine says fondly.

When gratefulness shapes life

Jasmine believes that her visual impairment doesn’t define her, and she sees endless possibilities ahead. 

"Initially, many people used to feel sympathetic about my son's and my condition and wondered how I would be able to lead my life and take care of the family. I’m a woman of few words, so I would brush it off with a smile,” she says. 

“But deep down, I made a firm decision that I would define my own life on my own terms. Hence I decided to do something meaningful,” she says.

From a humble beginning with a single stove to a thriving enterprise, Jasmine’s journey with Appoos Foods is a testament to hard work, faith, and resilience.

"I am deeply grateful to God for giving me the strength and guiding me every step of the way. If it weren't for my husband, I wouldn't be where I am today. He has been my constant support. I feel truly liberated and happy leading my life this way. Today, I am invited to schools and colleges for motivational talks. It gives me happiness when I can make someone feel encouraged and empowered. There's one thing that I strongly believe--When life challenges you, choose to rise — and when you do, you'll see just how far you can go," Jasmine signs off, with a radiant smile.

(Chandhini R is a Kerala-based journalist specialising in human interest, entertainment, and art and culture stories)

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