KANNUR : Purushothaman T V, a resident of Velloor in Payyannur, has turned his humble livelihood of coconut plucking into a ticket to see the world. With the firm belief ‘thengu chadikkilla’ (coconut tree never cheats), the 62-year-old built his life around the trade, and in return, coconuts rewarded him with opportunities he never imagined.

Once convinced that he would never step beyond the country, Purushothaman has now travelled to countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and several Arab nations. His journey stands as a testament to how dedication and faith in one’s work can open doors to experiences far beyond expectations. Currently, he is preparing for his next trip, to Vietnam.

“I have always had a passion for travelling and exploring new places,” Purushothaman tells TNIE.

“But during my childhood, financial limitations stood in the way. And being the eldest of three children, I had to start working at a young age, which also affected my education.”

His travels began with visits to temples like Sabarimala and Kollur Mookambika. “I often visit these temples multiple times a year. Accompanying other devotees on these trips gave me the chance to explore not only the temples but also the places around them. These experiences brought me immense joy, not just in exploring new places but also in meeting and interacting with new people,” he says.

For Purushothaman, coconut palms are more than just a livelihood, they are a way of life.