Vinod Sahadevan Nair, 64, from Parassala in Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram, turned his life around by cultivating 500 varieties of bananas. Today, he earns Rs 1 lakh monthly and has become a sensation in the banana farming world.

Vinod’s journey wasn’t always rooted in farming. He began his career with a BSc in Physics and later ran a web design firm in Kochi. However, a significant life event brought him back to farming.

After his mother’s passing, Vinod returned home to Parassala and decided to expand his family farm. His goal? Cultivating as many banana varieties as he could find.

Vinod travelled to states like Gujarat, Karnataka, and Bengal, searching for and collecting unique banana varieties. His journey also took him to horticulture departments, research institutes, and universities.

“Every kind of banana has a certain cultural element attached to it as well. ‘Manoranjitham’, a variety of Kanyakumari, emanates a beautiful fragrance. So in the olden days, people would hang them in their homes during auspicious occasions, marriages and festivals,” Vinod explains.

Vinod’s passion extended beyond India, taking him to countries like Malaysia, Australia, and Hawaii. He brought back rare varieties suited to coastal climates.

While only 10-15 varieties are commercially grown in India, Vinod’s farm is home to 500 unique banana varieties, including lady’s finger, red banana, and the rare blue java. His farm has become a wonder for banana enthusiasts.

By selling his produce wholesale, Vinod earns up to Rs 1 lakh monthly.

He also spreads awareness through a Facebook group, where he shares insights about banana varieties and offers them for free. It’s his way of giving back to the community.