Success Story: Jasmine, a resident of Thodupuzha, is a source of courage for those who give up in the face of adversity. Life constantly threw her into challenges, but she learned to navigate through every situation. Her son’s serious illness and the gradual loss of her vision could have broken anyone, but Jasmine turned these difficulties into her strength.
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A Life Full of Challenges and the Beginning of Struggle
After marriage in 1998, Jasmine’s happy life changed when her son, Akhil, was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. She had to travel to several cities for treatment, putting the entire family under stress. Meanwhile, in 2001, she herself was struck by a serious neurological problem. Over the next ten years, her vision steadily deteriorated and eventually vanished completely. Between a sick child and her own deteriorating health, she began to feel helpless, but responsibilities kept her from breaking down. During this struggle, a visit to the Velankanni Church changed the course of her life, where a priest advised her to keep her mind occupied and start a small work with a positive purpose.
Small Beginnings That Gave Birth to Big Dreams
Inspired by the priest’s advice, Jasmine began making traditional Neyyappam, a prasad offered at religious places in Kerala. She began with just two kilograms of rice from her husband’s grocery store and one assistant. On the first day, all the packets sold out within a few hours. This success gave her the confidence to found Appoos Foods. The business formally launched in 2005, but production had to be halted in 2009 due to deteriorating health. When she resumed work, she had completely lost her vision, yet she had adapted to the new circumstances.
The First Big Order That Changed Direction
In 2009, she received a large order for 1,200 kg of Neyyappam for the Alphonso Church Festival in Kottayam. At the time, she had only four employees, but by setting up temporary tents and hiring additional help, she completed the entire task in ten days. This proved to be a turning point in her business. In 2010, she set up a small mill near her home, supplying it to churches, wholesalers, and shops. By 2011, she had completely lost her vision, but by then, she had learned to identify the texture and quality of Neyyappam by touch. She also began handling crucial tasks like finance, production, and mixing.
New Products and Strength in the Pandemic
When demand began to decline during the pandemic, instead of giving up, she diversified her business by adding new products like rice, ragi, and puttu flour. This not only kept the business going but also protected the jobs of her employees. This change further strengthened her venture.
Appoos Foods Today: An Example of Hard Work and Confidence
Today, Jasmine’s business produces approximately 1,500 kg of Neyyappam every month. On special occasions, production can reach 7,000 kg in just ten days, generating monthly revenue of approximately ₹1.4 million. She also encourages her employees to save through post office savings accounts. Her son also enjoys being a part of this work environment. Jasmine’s story is now used as a motivational example in many schools and colleges. Through her life experiences, she teaches society that difficulties cannot deter a person if one’s courage is strong.