I’m a Social Media Entrepreneur, Professor of Digital Marketing, Author of 9 books, Podcaster and an Organic Farmer.

Artificial Intelligence is becoming a must-have portfolio in government cabinets, but experts question whether the trend reflects policy depth or mere signalling.

When artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming industries, economies and everyday life, can governance be far behind?

In India, that race is increasingly taking shape inside state governments. Kerala took the lead in appointing its first ever AI minister. Tamil Nadu swiftly followed. Now other states are watching closely as the debate brews: Do governments need a dedicated AI minister at all?

On May 20, 2026, Kerala became the first Indian state to create a dedicated AI portfolio at the Cabinet level.

Senior IUML leader PK Kunhalikutty has been allocated Industries & Commerce, IT, AI, Startups, Mining and Geo…

Tamil Nadu follows

C Joseph Vijay-led Tamil Nadu government soon followed with its own dedicated AI portfolio. On May 21, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK)’s Velachery MLA R Kumar was allotted AI, Information Technology and Digital Services.

In fact, TVK had promised a dedicated AI ministry in its election manifesto, along with an AI university and an AI city.

The state has since begun operationalising its AI agenda, holding its first high-level review meeting to set priorities for digital infrastructure and AI-led…

Karnataka and Maharashtra’s integrated approach

In Karnataka, the approach remains integrated rather than creating a separate AI ministry. Priyank Kharge, Minister for Home, Information Technology, Bio-Technology and e-Governance, told Moneycontrol that the state prefers a broader ‘technology’ portfolio.

“If tomorrow, AI becomes redundant, do we need to change the ministry again? A simple ‘Technology’ ministry is better,” he said.

Kharge said Karnataka already has a strong AI ecosystem, citing its talent pool and ongoing innovation work.

“We have 40 percent of engineering and R&D skill sets, among the top five AI talent pools globally, a Rs 600-crore deep-tech fund, and are evaluating 258 companies,” he said.

Karnataka also runs a dedicated AI-ML Cell under the Centre for e-Governance, which vets AI projects before rollout. A government order mandates that all departments seek approval before launching AI-based initiatives. The state has also set up a committee on responsible AI to ensure ethical and transparent deployment of AI systems.

In April, the Maharashtra cabinet approved the creation of an independent Department of Electronics, Information Technology and Artificial Intelligence, signalling the state’s growing focus on AI-driven governance and innovation.

As part of this move, the existing Information Technology Directorate will be converted into the Electronics, Information Technology and Artificial Intelligence Commissionerate.

In the same month, the state also announced a dedicated AI policy, which puts an emphasis on building AI infrastructure, skill development, and employment creation. The policy also proposes setting up six AI Excellence Centres, five AI Innovation Cities, and ‘Compute-as-a-Service’ facilities in the state.

Kerala’s institutional model

Kerala is expanding its institutional structure to integrate future technologies. Seeram Sambasiva Rao, Special Secretary (IT), told Moneycontrol that the state is strengthening the IT Mission with two new verticals: AI and emerging technologies.

“The Electronics & IT department will soon be renamed the IT, Future Technologies and Startups department,” he said.

“Kerala has drafted an AI policy and launched the ‘K-AI’ initiative, identifying use cases across departments. Of 237 proposals, around 70 were shortlisted and five reached the proof-of-concept stage,” he added.

Rao said the focus is now on scaling AI solutions across governance systems, subject to funding approvals.

Andhra Pradesh and Telangana: two models

Andhra Pradesh is pursuing a centralised AI strategy combining infrastructure, governance use cases and skilling. Its ‘Swadeshi AI Stack’, developed with IBM and partners, supports AI pilots in policing, citizen services and education, alongside plans to develop Visakhapatnam as a global AI and data hub.

Telangana is taking a more ecosystem-led approach anchored in Hyderabad’s startup and IT base. Institutions like T-Hub and We-Hub are driving AI innovation, while governance applications include AI in grievance redressal, urban services and digital administration.

AI minister: signal or symbolism?

Experts say the idea of a dedicated AI ministry cuts both ways. Former Infosys CFO and Aarin Capital Chairman Mohandas Pai said such initiatives need to be backed by a large budget, investment in innovation, and the right incentives to make a difference.

“Earlier, many states had a Minister for IT but none of them created a large enough budget to make a big impact,” Pai told Moneycontrol.

Umakant Soni, Co-Founder of Bharat1.AI, pointed out while the emerging AI economy and industry need support and innovation-focused policies to grow, the key challenge will be finding knowledgeable AI experts to run these ministries.

“Usually ministers and bureaucrats who have poor understanding of the technology might end up unintentionally killing or distorting the very sector they are trying to grow,” he said.

Kris Gopalakrishnan, cofounder of Infosys and chairman of seed fund Axilor Ventures, has said he believes in the idea, as the country is in an age where AI is touching all aspects of life and business

“We need policies to promote and regulate AI so that it creates an equitable and inclusive society. A large number of people need to be trained/retrained for AI… an AI minister will coordinate all these changes,” Gopalakrishnan earlier told Moneycontrol.

Kiruba Shankar, CEO of Business Blogging and founder-director of F5ive Technologies, said the move reflects both urgency and risk.

“It is important because AI will transform governance and jobs,” he said. “But it can also become symbolic – like a ‘Minister of Internet’ a few years ago – if it is not backed by real execution power.”

He warned that without domain expertise, such portfolios risk becoming cosmetic.

The global picture

India does not have a standalone AI ministry at present; its AI initiatives are managed by the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) under Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

That said, AI remains a top government priority, highlighted by major programmes such as the Rs 10,372-crore IndiaAI Mission and sectoral guidelines from RBI, SEBI, and other authorities.

The country is also pursuing its own sovereign AI stack, a foundational push to build indigenous AI models, compute infrastructure, and datasets designed for Indian languages and contexts.

Globally, AI governance structures are expanding.

United Arab Emirates (UAE) was the first country in the world to appoint a minister for AI in 2017, with Omar Sultan Al Olama taking on the role. The United Kingdom created a dedicated AI minister in 2023 under the leadership of Rishi Sunak. Today, Kanishka Narayan serves as the UK’s current Minister for AI and Online Safety.

Canada also expanded its cabinet in 2025 to create a dedicated Minister of AI and Digital Innovation. France has also strengthened its AI governance framework through dedicated ministerial roles.

Albania has taken the concept a step further by appointing an AI-powered virtual assistant ‘Diella,’ as Minister of State for AI in September 2025 to oversee public procurement and government tenders. It is the first AI system in the world to be named in a cabinet-level government role and is a key part of Albania’s anti-corruption strategy.

The significance of the move is hard to miss. Diella’s image appears in the first row of the cabinet list on the government’s website, next to photos of Prime Minister Edi Rama and Deputy Prime Minister Albana Koçiu.

Diella, which initially launched as an AI-powered virtual assistant, was developed in collaboration with Microsoft using OpenAI’s AI models and is hosted on Microsoft Azure.

As more governments experiment with AI portfolios, the debate is likely to intensify.

Whether standalone ministers, specialised departments or broader technology portfolios are a sign of serious intent and institutional readiness, or simply administrative branding for the age of AI, remains an open question.

Source: https://www.moneycontrol.com/artificial-intelligence/indian-states-are-appointing-ai-ministers-but-do-they-matter-article-13942600.html

If you own an Airbnb, homestay, farmstay, or boutique hotel, you already know one truth:

👉 Getting bookings on weekdays is a challenge.

👉 Pritability is a challenge.

You may have:

• Listed your property on Airbnb, Booking.com, or other OTAs
• Invested in good interiors and amenities
• Tried Instagram or digital marketing
• Got a few great reviews

Yet… something still feels stuck.

• Occupancy fluctuates.
• Revenue is unpredictable.
• Marketing feels like guesswork.
• And scaling? Even harder.

If this sounds familiar, STAYPRENEUR workshop is designed exactly for you.

Introducing STAYPRENEUR: A 2-Day Intensive for Serious Hospitality Entrepreneurs

📅 April 26 & 27

📍 Vaksana Farms (Award-winning 14-acre organic farmstay near Chennai)

STAYPRENEUR workshop is a deep, practical, strategy-driven workshop for owners who want real results.

This workshop is specifically built for:

• Airbnb hosts
• Homestay owners
• Farmstay entrepreneurs
• Boutique hotel operators

If you are serious about growing your hospitality business, this is your room.

—

Why This Workshop is Different

Most workshops talk theory.

This one is built from real experience, real failures, and real growth.

I’m Kiruba Shankar — and here’s why this workshop is worth your time:

• 12 years consulting for Club Mahindra
• 14 years consulting for Sterling Holidays
• Built Vaksana Farms into:
• India’s Best Farmstay (Outlook Traveller Award)
• One of the most loved experiential stays in Tamil Nadu

This workshop is an extension of the STAYPRENEUR book — a result of 2 years of research and hands-on execution.

—

The Real Problem Most Stay Owners Face

Let’s be honest.

Most stay owners struggle with:

❌ Inconsistent Bookings

You get full occupancy on weekends… and silence on weekdays.

❌ Dependency on OTAs

You rely heavily on Airbnb/Booking.com and lose margins in commissions.

❌ Poor Pricing Strategy

Either you underprice and lose revenue… or overprice and lose bookings.

❌ Weak Brand Positioning

Guests don’t see your stay as unique — just another option.

❌ No Repeat Customers

Guests come once… but don’t come back.

—

What You’ll Learn at STAYPRENEUR

This is where things change.

Over 2 intensive days, you will learn:

1. How to Position Your Stay So It Sells Itself

Not just “nice rooms” — but a compelling experience people crave

2. How to Increase Bookings Without Increasing Spend

Smart strategies to:

• Improve conversion rates3. Pricing Strategies That Maximize Revenue

3. Learn how to:

• Price dynamically
• Increase average revenue per guest
• Avoid underpricing traps

4. Build a Brand That Guests Remember

From:

• Storytelling
• Visual identity
• Experience design

To creating a stay that guests talk about

5. Social Media That Actually Drives Revenue

Not vanity metrics — but:

• Content that converts
• Reels that bring bookings
• Instagram as a sales engine

6. Guest Experience That Drives 5-Star Reviews

Because: 👉 Reviews = Trust

👉 Trust = Bookings

—

Why the Venue Itself is a Masterclass

The workshop is hosted at Vaksana Farms, a 14-acre organic permaculture farm.

This is not just a venue. It is a live case study.

You will experience:

• A fully functioning farmstay business
• Real guest journeys
• Revenue models in action
• Experience design in real life

You won’t just learn — you will see, feel, and understand.

—

A Residential Experience That Changes Your Perspective

This is a residential workshop.

Which means:

• You stay at the property
• You observe guest behavior
• You experience what your customers experience

And that changes everything.

Because the biggest breakthroughs happen when you step into your guest’s shoes.

—

Who This Workshop is For (And Not For)

✅ This is for you if:

• You own or plan to run a stay business
• You want to increase bookings & profitability
• You are ready to invest in learning and growth
• You want actionable strategies (not fluff)

❌ This is NOT for you if:

• You are looking for free tips only
• You are not ready to implement
• You are not serious about scaling

—

This is Not an Expense. It’s an Investment.

This workshop is designed to pay for itself many times over.

—

Limited Seats. Only 10 Participants.

• This is an intensive, hands-on workshop.
• Seats are intentionally limited to ensure:
• Personal attention
• Deep discussions
• Real problem-solving

—

Ready to Grow Your Stay Business?

If you’ve been:

• Struggling with bookings
• Unsure about pricing
• Confused about marketing

This is your moment to fix it.

👉 Learn more & book your spot at www.vaksanafarms.in/staypreneur

📞 Or call directly: 9841597744

—

Final Thought

Running a homestay or Airbnb is not just about hospitality.

It is about:

• Strategy
• Positioning
• Marketing
• Experience design

The difference between an average stay and a profitable, thriving business is not luck.

It is knowledge + execution.

STAYPRENEUR gives you both.

I was listening to the interview with Seth Godin at the Mel Robbins Podcast. I have a lot of respect for Seth. Here are my top 10 key takeaways from this podcast.

1. Pick yourself instead of waiting for permission

Stop waiting for an invitation, a publisher, or a boss to authorize your ideas. If you want to create something, make it, share it, and say, “Here, I made this”. For example, if you want to write a book, turn it into a PDF and email it to 20 people to see if it spreads.

2. Replace the word “but” with “and”

When processing challenges, swap “but” for “and”. For example, instead of saying, “I’m making positive changes, *but* my spouse doesn’t like it” (which makes the spouse an excuse to stop), say, “I’m making positive changes, *and* my spouse doesn’t like it.” This holds space for both realities and empowers you to figure out how to address the challenge.

3. Categorize your obstacles as “situations” or “problems”

Assess what is holding you back. If it is a “situation” (something you cannot change or control, like the laws of physics or someone else’s choices), let yourself off the hook and accept it. If it is a “problem,” recognize that it has a solution—even if that solution requires uncomfortable action, like a difficult conversation or sticking to a budget.

4. Accept that important work comes with resistance and “tiredness”

Stop expecting meaningful changes to be easy. If you don’t feel resistance, the task might not be important enough. When you take on a big goal, tell yourself, “I’m going to do this, *and* I’m going to get tired,” knowing that you need to be able to handle both the forward motion and the exhaustion that comes with it.

5. Define “Who is it for?” and “What is it for?”

Before you put effort into a project or post on social media, answer two specific questions: Exactly who is this for, and what is its purpose? If you cannot identify who benefits and what the impact should be, you are just hiding or floundering.

6. Start with the “smallest viable audience” and the “smallest piece of art”

Instead of getting paralyzed by massive goals, shrink them down to the smallest actionable unit . If you want to revamp your workplace but lack authority, start a lunch book club with five coworkers [13]. If you are dreaming of nursing school, volunteer at a senior home for two hours a week to start changing lives immediately.

7. Call out your own status-seeking behavior out loud

When you find yourself chasing things to keep up with others (like an expensive vacation or a kitchen remodel), pause and explicitly name what you are doing. Say out loud, “I am doing this because I am afraid,” or “I am doing this to buy status.” Naming the behavior exposes how ridiculous it is and helps you break out of the exhausting cycle of trying to fit in.

8. Stop being a perfectionist and “merely ship it”

Perfectionism is not a tool to make things better; it is an excuse to keep you from sharing your work. Instead of striving for zero defects, figure out the baseline requirements your work needs to meet (the “spec”). The minute your work meets that spec, “merely ship it” and move on to the next thing.

9. Consistently play the role of the best version of yourself

Stop using “authenticity” as an excuse to be cranky or act out. Instead, ask yourself, “If I was playing the role of the best version of me, what would that be like?”
. By intentionally choosing to show up consistently as your highest self, you will eventually grow into that person.

10. Build an accountability cohort

Do not try to make big life changes in isolation. Find a small group—one to five people—to act as a cohort. Talk to them about your goals, hold each other accountable, tell each other the truth, and challenge one another to become the best versions of yourselves.

When we recently announced four unique summer camps for kids at Vaksana Farms, I was filled with excitement. These camps were thoughtfully designed with a simple but powerful purpose: to give children a joyful and meaningful rural farm experience.

Each camp has a distinct theme, but the heart of all four programs remains the same — helping children reconnect with nature while learning valuable life lessons through hands-on experiences.

At Vaksana Farms, children don’t just sit in classrooms or listen to lectures. They actively take part in farm tasks. And in the process, they begin to learn some of the most important life skills that no textbook can teach:

The dignity of hard work

The importance of punctuality

The joy of teamwork

The power of creative thinking

The habit of problem-solving

The value of empathy and responsibility

These are lessons that stay with children for life.

However, soon after announcing the camps, I began receiving calls and messages from parents. While many loved the idea, there was one concern that repeatedly surfaced.

The moment parents realized that some of these camps are residential summer camps where children stay overnight at the farm, their excitement turned into hesitation.

“Can my child really stay away from us for a night?”
“Will they be comfortable?”
“Will they be safe?”
“Will someone take care of them properly?”

As a parent myself, I completely understand this concern.

Letting your child spend a night away from home without you is not easy. It requires trust — trust in the place, trust in the organizers, and most importantly, trust in your own child.

But interestingly, the very reason these residential camps exist is because children grow the most when they are given a little space.

When children step away from the comfort of home and spend time with other kids their age, something magical happens.

They become more independent.
They begin solving small problems themselves.
They build friendships.
They gain confidence.

It is in these moments that children begin to discover their own wings.

Of course, parents’ concerns are natural, especially when they are unfamiliar with the place or the people organizing the camp. That is why it is important for us to share more about who we are and what Vaksana Farms stands for.

Vaksana Farms has been recognized nationally for its work in responsible tourism and rural experiences.

Outlook Traveller magazine awarded us Gold in the India Responsible Tourism Awards.

We have been recognized among India’s best farmstays by the Department of Tourism.

Condé Nast Traveller featured Vaksana Farms among the Top 100 Most Beautiful Homestays in India.

We have received more than 1,600 five-star reviews from guests who have stayed with us.

These recognitions are not just awards. They represent the trust that thousands of families have placed in us.

On a personal note, I will be leading these summer camps myself.

My name is Kiruba Shankar, and I have been involved in teaching, mentoring, and training people for over three decades. As a speaker, author, and entrepreneur, I have spent a significant part of my life working with students and young minds.

Over the years, I have learned that children flourish when they are encouraged to think, explore, and challenge themselves.

At the farm, I will be personally present throughout the camp.

My parents, Kasthuri Amma and Sivaraman Appa, who live at the farm, are incredibly affectionate towards children and treat every visiting child like their own grandchild.

My wife Sujani, an entrepreneur herself,will also be present.

In addition, we have a dedicated team of ten women staff members who will be supervising and supporting the children throughout the program.

Most importantly, the safety and well-being of every child is our highest priority.

We have hosted numerous school trips, workshops, and children’s programs in the past where hundreds of students have visited the farm. These experiences have given us deep expertise in handling children responsibly and ensuring they feel safe, comfortable, and happy.

At the same time, we genuinely respect the emotions and concerns of parents.

So we decided to make a thoughtful adjustment.

Out of the four summer camps we are organizing, two will be exclusively for children, giving them the full independent residential experience.

The other two camps will allow parents to accompany their children, so families who feel more comfortable staying together can still participate in the experience.

This way, parents can choose what feels right for them.

Ultimately, our hope is simple.

We want parents to have confidence —
confidence in their children,
confidence in themselves,
and confidence in us as organizers.

Childhood is a precious phase of life. Experiences like these create memories that stay forever.

At Vaksana Farms, our goal is not just to host a summer camp.

Our goal is to give children a summer they will never forget.

A summer where they run barefoot in the soil, laugh with new friends, learn from nature, and return home a little stronger, a little braver, and a little wiser.

And if parents choose to give their children this opportunity, we promise to make it a truly memorable and meaningful experience.

For the last few years, something beautiful has been happening whenever children visit Vaksana Farms.

When they arrive, most of them come with the habits of city life — a little cautious about mud, unsure about animals, and very attached to their screens.

But give them a few hours on the farm, and everything changes.

They start climbing trees, chasing goats, pulling carrots from the soil, running barefoot on grass, and asking endless questions about how plants grow and where food comes from.

Watching this transformation convinced me of one thing:

Children need nature more than ever.

And that is why we have decided to host Vaksana Farms Summer Camps 2026.

—

A Farm With a Story That Began With My Grandmother

Before I tell you about the camps, let me share a little about the farm itself.

Vaksana Farms is a 14-acre organic permaculture farm nestled in a quiet village near Tindivanam.

This farm was started by my 92-year-old grandmother, Lakshmi Paati. She believed deeply in simple living, growing food naturally, and living in harmony with the land.

Even today, when I walk through the farm, I feel her spirit everywhere.

After Paati passed away, the responsibility of nurturing the farm was taken up by my parents, who are now 74 years old. They continue to lovingly care for the land, the trees, and the animals.

Over time, the farm has grown into a beautiful ecosystem — with fruit trees, vegetable gardens, farm animals, ponds, and peaceful open spaces.

Many guests who visit tell us that it feels like stepping into a completely different world.

And that’s exactly the experience we want children to have.

—

Why I Personally Love Hosting These Camps

For over two decades, I have worked as a professor, interacting with thousands of young students.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this:

Children learn best when they experience things with their hands.

When a child plants a seed…
When they water a plant…
When they feed a goat…
When they see vegetables harvested fresh from the soil…

Something powerful happens.

They develop:

• Respect for nature
• Appreciation for good, clean food
• Curiosity about how things work
• Empathy towards animals
• Confidence from doing things themselves

These are lessons that stay with them for life.

That’s why these camps are very close to my heart.

—

Summer Camps 2026 at Vaksana Farms

This summer we are hosting four unique nature-based workshops, each designed to give children meaningful outdoor experiences.

The idea is simple:

Less screen time. More green time.

🌾 FarmFit Kids – Outdoor Fitness Camp

📅 April 23–24, 2026
👦 Age Group: 8–15 years

This camp is perfect for energetic kids who love running, playing, and exploring.

Children participate in farm-style fitness activities like:

• Obstacle courses
• Team challenges
• Traditional village games
• Tree climbing
• Gardening activities
• Nature exploration

It’s a fun way to build strength, confidence, teamwork, and resilience.

Register for FarmFit Kids Summer Camp

—

🌱 Young Farmer Workshop – Organic Farming for Kids

📅 May 5–6, 2026
👦 Age Group: 8–15 years

In this Young Farmer workshop, children experience the life of a farmer.

They learn:

• How soil works
• How seeds grow
• Composting and natural farming
• Planting and harvesting vegetables

Most children have never seen how food is actually grown.

By the end of this workshop, they develop a completely new respect for farmers and for the food on their plate.

—

🎨 Nature–Art–Build Workshop

📅 May 12–13, 2026
👶 Age Group: 2–7 years

This Nature Art & Build workshop is specially designed for very young children.

Kids explore creativity through nature-based activities like:

• Leaf printing
• Natural painting
• Clay crafts
• Simple building projects
• Exploring flowers, fruits, and textures

At this age, children learn through touch, play, and imagination. This workshop is designed exactly for that.

—

🐾 Animals & Pet Lovers Workshop

📅 May 26–27, 2026
👦 Age Group: 8–15 years

Many children love animals but rarely get the chance to interact with them.

At this Animals & Pet Lovers camp, kids spend time with friendly farm animals including:

• Camels
. Cows
. Goats
. Sheep
• Turkeys
• Ducks
• Chickens
. Guinea Fowls
. Geese

Through guided activities, they learn how to care for animals responsibly and develop empathy and compassion.

—

Learning Beyond the Classroom

At Vaksana Farms, learning doesn’t happen inside four walls.

It happens while digging soil.

It happens while feeding animals.

It happens while running in the open fields.

My mother Kasthuri Amma, who hosts guests at the farm, beautifully says:

> “When children touch soil, care for plants, and interact with animals, they develop respect for nature and life itself.”

And that’s exactly what we hope to nurture.

Not just a fun vacation.

But a meaningful experience that leaves a lasting impression on young minds.

—

A Safe and Memorable Experience

The camps are conducted in a safe and supervised environment at our award-winning farmstay, surrounded by nature and fresh air.

Children get to experience:

• Outdoor exploration
• Hands-on learning
• Farm life
• Traditional games
• Interaction with animals
• Screen-free fun

For many children, this becomes their first real connection with nature.

And often, their most memorable summer experience.

—

How to Register

If you feel your child deserves a few days away from screens…

A few days of mud, nature, animals, and laughter…

Then we would love to welcome them to Vaksana Farms Summer Camps 2026.

You can register here:

🌐 www.vaksanafarms.in/summer

Or contact me directly:

📞 Call / WhatsApp: +91 98415 97744

🔗 Registration Link:
https://www.vaksanafarms.in/summer

—

Sometimes the best lessons for children don’t come from textbooks.

They come from soil on their hands, sunshine on their face, and curiosity in their minds.

And that is exactly what we hope to offer at Vaksana Farms.

Kiruba Shankar
Co-owner, Vaksana Farms
9841597744

For the longest time, I had successfully convinced myself that I didn’t need a motorcycle.

My logic sounded perfectly reasonable.

I already had a good car. It was comfortable. It was safe. It had air-conditioning. It protected me from dust, pollution, heat, and unexpected rain. For long drives or city errands, it did everything I needed.

So in my mind, the case was closed.

Why buy a bike when a car already serves the purpose better?

But life has a funny way of quietly rearranging our beliefs.

The Ride That Changed Everything

A few weeks ago, I met my college friends for a reunion. Instead of the usual coffee-shop nostalgia or dinner conversations, we decided to do something a little crazy.

We went on an 1100-kilometer motorcycle ride through the Himalayas.

And that ride changed something in me.

Anyone who has ridden through the mountains knows this feeling. The moment the engine starts humming, the wind brushes past your jacket, and the road snakes through valleys and forests—you realize that riding a motorcycle is not merely transportation.

It is an experience.

You feel the terrain.

You smell the pine trees.

You sense the temperature dropping as the altitude climbs.

You notice things you would completely miss inside a car.

There is a rawness to it. A freedom.

Somewhere during those mountain curves and long stretches of open road, a thought quietly crept into my head:

Maybe I should buy a motorcycle.

The Midlife Realization

I have just crossed the halfway mark of my life.

That realization makes you reflect on things differently.

When you are younger, life is full of “somedays.”

Someday I’ll travel more.
Someday I’ll learn that skill.
Someday I’ll do that adventure.

But as the years pass, you begin to realize something important:

Someday must become today.

And that’s when I decided.

It is time to add a little thrill to life.

Buying a motorcycle is not about practicality for me. I already have a car for that.

This bike will be about joy.

About adventure.

About occasionally heading out on long rides, maybe exploring farms as part of my 100 Farms project, or riding into the hills with friends.

The Kind of Bike I Want

Once I decided to buy a motorcycle, the next big question appeared.

Which bike should I buy?

I had a few clear criteria in mind.

First, the bike should feel manly and bulky.
I don’t want a slim commuter bike.

Second, it should have presence. When you look at it, it should have that oomph factor.

Third, it should be powerful. I want enough power to comfortably cruise highways and overtake without stress.

Fourth, I did not want the old-school “dug-dug-dug” Bullet style engine feel. While those bikes have their charm, that’s not the experience I am looking for.

With these filters in mind, a few bikes were automatically eliminated.

The First Contender: Himalayan 450

The bike that immediately caught my attention was the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450.

There is a lot to like about this motorcycle.

It is a beautifully designed adventure bike.
It looks rugged and purposeful.
The suspension is excellent.
It is designed to handle rough terrain.
And it has received fantastic reviews from riders.

Most importantly, it looks like a bike meant for exploration.

And I love that.

The Himalayan 450 also feels like a safe decision.

It is already in the market.
Thousands of riders have tested it.
The issues have been largely ironed out.

If I buy it today, I know exactly what I’m getting.

The price also sits comfortably around ₹4 to ₹4.5 lakhs, which feels reasonable for a premium adventure motorcycle.

So logically, the Himalayan 450 should have been an easy decision.

But there was one small thought nagging me.

The Shelf-Life Question

The Himalayan 450 is not brand new anymore.

By the time I buy it, ride it, and keep it for several years, it might already be approaching the latter half of its lifecycle.

I prefer buying something closer to the beginning of its product lifecycle.

Because I only plan to buy one motorcycle, not keep upgrading every few years.

If I’m investing several lakhs, I want the bike to feel relevant and fresh for a long time.

And that’s when the second contender entered the picture.

The Temptation of the Himalayan 750

Royal Enfield is working on a larger Himalayan 750.

This upcoming motorcycle promises something very exciting.

More power.
More torque.
A bigger engine.
Better highway performance.

For someone like me who enjoys long rides, that is a big attraction.

A larger engine means:

Easier overtakes on highways

More relaxed cruising

Better performance when carrying luggage or riding two-up

A bike that feels effortless even at higher speeds

The expected price is somewhere around ₹5.5 to ₹6 lakhs.

Which means for a little more money, I could potentially get a much more powerful motorcycle.

That was tempting.

Very tempting.

What I Don’t Like About the 750 (So Far)

However, the Himalayan 750 is not perfect in my eyes.

In fact, there are a couple of things I’m not thrilled about.

First — the looks.

To be honest, the current spy images make it look like a nun wearing a black veil.

I know that sounds harsh, but the design doesn’t excite me the way the Himalayan 450 does.

The second issue is the missing motocross-style front mudguard.

Adventure bikes traditionally look more aggressive with a raised front mudguard. Without it, the 750 feels slightly less adventurous.

And then there is the front wheel size.

I personally love the 21-inch front wheel on adventure bikes. It handles rough terrain better and gives the motorcycle a taller, more purposeful stance.

But the Himalayan 750 is rumored to come with a 19-inch front wheel, which is slightly disappointing.

I sincerely hope Royal Enfield releases a more hardcore adventure variant later.

The Risk of First-Generation Bikes

There is also another concern.

Royal Enfield’s history shows that first versions of their motorcycles often come with teething issues.

Over time, they improve dramatically through updates and iterations.

So buying the first batch of a new bike always carries some risk.

But sometimes, life also rewards people who are willing to take a small gamble.

The Final Decision

After weeks of going back and forth in my head, debating with myself, reading reviews, watching videos, and imagining different scenarios…

I finally reached a conclusion.

I will wait for the Himalayan 750.

Yes, it might take a year before the bike launches.

Yes, the first version may have minor issues.

Yes, the design may not be perfect.

But the larger engine, the additional power, and the longer product lifecycle make it worth waiting for.

In the end, this decision came down to one powerful idea:

Delayed gratification.

Instead of buying what is available immediately, I’m choosing to wait for something that aligns more with what I really want.

And sometimes, the anticipation itself becomes part of the joy.

The Adventure Begins Before the Bike Arrives

Interestingly, the adventure has already begun.

Not on the road.

But in my mind.

Every time I see a long stretch of highway, every time I watch a motorcycle ride video, every time I remember that Himalayan ride with my college friends…

I imagine the day when I’ll start my own engine and head out on a journey.

Maybe into the mountains.

Maybe across farms.

Maybe just into the open road with no destination.

Because sometimes the best journeys start long before the wheels begin to roll.

And for me, that journey has just begun.

Here are personal resolutions—the kind that don’t impress anyone on Instagram but genuinely change how I live, think, and feel.

If 2026 had one theme for me, it would be this: show up better—for myself and for others.

1. Get Fit. Really Fit.

This is the heaviest I’ve ever been in my life.

• Current weight: 92 kg
• Target weight: 77 kg

That number isn’t about vanity. It’s about energy. Longevity. Self-respect.

In 2026, my focus is:

• Strength training (not just cardio)
• Long walks—especially while listening to podcasts
• Building a body that can keep up with the life I want to live

2. Learn Swimming (No More Excuses)

This one is personal. And honestly, a little embarrassing.

I have a beautiful, large pond at Vaksana Farms—and yet, I can’t swim confidently. Guests assume I can. I should be able to. But the truth is, I still depend on floaters and life jackets.

Not anymore.

• I’ve paid for swimming lessons
• The pool is close to my Chennai residence
• This time, I’m fully committed

2026 is the year I stop standing at the edge and finally enter the water with confidence.

3. Master Video Editing (Graduate from Mobile to Pro)

I love VN Editor. It’s been my faithful companion on the phone.

But it’s time to level up.

• New MacBook Air: Bought ✅
• DaVinci Resolve downloaded: ✅
• Enrolled in a 3-month professional course: ✅

I want to:

• Edit faster
• Edit cleaner
• Tell stories better through video

This isn’t about becoming a “techie.”
It’s about respecting my stories enough to present them well.

4. Master NotebookLM

I’ve been hearing incredible things about NotebookLM—especially for:

• Podcast research
• Long-form blogging
• Making sense of scattered ideas

Given how much I love podcasting, writing, and thinking aloud, this tool feels like a natural extension of my brain.

In 2026, I want to use AI as a thinking partner, not just a productivity hack.

5. Rebuild My Personal Brand (Slowly, Authentically)

I want to show up more consistently on:

• My blog
• Instagram
• YouTube
• LinkedIn

Not with noise. Not with pressure.
But with clarity and honesty.

Sharing:

• What I’m learning
• What I’m struggling with
• What I’m observing

Less “content.”
More context.

6. Journal Every Day (Beyond Events, Into Emotions)

This is one of the most important resolutions.

I don’t want journaling to be a log of what happened.
I want it to be a space where I process:

• Emotions
• Confusions
• Inner conflicts
• Moments of clarity

Writing to understand myself better, not to sound wise.

If my mind is messy, my life reflects it.
Journaling is how I clean up gently—one page at a time.

7. Appreciate People More (Genuinely)

The world doesn’t need more criticism.
It desperately needs sincere appreciation.

In 2026, I want to:

• Compliment people when it’s truly deserved
• Say thank you and mean it
• Acknowledge effort, not just outcomes

Not flattery.
Not politeness.

Just kindness, consciously practiced.

Closing Thought

These resolutions won’t make headlines.
They won’t go viral.

But if I stay true to them, they’ll quietly change:

• How I feel in my body
• How I think
• How I treat others
• How I show up in the world

And honestly, that feels like the best way to begin 2026.

Here are my lessons and observation from Day 2 of the workshop on Tropical Landscaping. I would encourage you to look at my lessons learned from Day 1 of the workshop.

Passion Over Perfection: You Don’t Need to Be an Expert to Begin

When Fayaz, a fellow participant, asked Musthafa, the founder of GreenAra, whether one should hire a professional landscaper or do everything on their own, Musthafa’s response was liberating. He compared it to an Audi car—some admire the advanced engineering and features, while others simply enjoy the drive. You don’t need to understand every technical detail to enjoy or build something meaningful. Passion, curiosity, and commitment matter more than formal expertise. Personally, I believe in a hybrid approach—doing a lot myself while taking professional help where it truly adds value.

The Real Joy Lies in the Journey, Not Just the Outcome

Building a farm is not a checklist project; it’s a long, evolving relationship. The real joy is not in “finishing” the farm but in figuring things out along the way—experimenting, failing, correcting, and learning. This mindset removes pressure and replaces it with playfulness and patience, which are essential when working with nature.

A Dream Farm Without Profit Is a Passion Drain

When I asked participants about their dream farms, most spoke about beauty, animals, water bodies, and self-grown food. Only one mentioned profitability. While these dreams are beautiful, ignoring revenue can slowly turn a dream into a financial burden. Without sustainable income streams aligned with one’s passion and skills, a farm can drain not just money, but enthusiasm. This is why profitability is a core focus of my two-day residential workshop, Build Your PROFITABLE Dream Farm, at Vaksana Farms.

Design Local, Live Modern

Architect Tony Joseph spoke about the importance of drawing from local architectural wisdom while thoughtfully integrating modern necessities. Local materials, climate-sensitive design, and traditional forms are inherently sustainable and timeless. This lesson strongly resonates with my plans for future farmhouses at Vaksana Farms—buildings that feel rooted, relevant, and resilient.

Niche Focus Is What Builds Strong Brands

GreenAra Life does not try to be everything. It focuses purely on tropical landscaping—not architecture, not multiple styles. This clarity has allowed their professional practice to grow directly from deep passion. It reinforced an important lesson: sticking to your niche and playing to your strengths creates stronger identity, better mastery, and long-term impact.

Rapid Implementation Beats Endless Ideation

I’ve been contemplating a talk series around farm life called Vaksana Vox. Coincidentally, seeing GreenAra’s Green Grid talk series drove home a powerful lesson—don’t overthink. Execute fast. Ideas gain value only when they are tested in the real world. Momentum often matters more than perfection.

The Power of Waking Up with the Sun

Faisal Kottikollon of Tulah Wellness spoke about waking up at 5 AM and aligning life with the energy of sunrise and sunset. There’s a quiet strength in early mornings—the clarity, stillness, and rhythm they bring. On a farm, this alignment with nature feels even more powerful and grounding.

When Passion Learns to Pay Its Own Bills

GreenAra began as a labour of love, but credit must go to Haneena for helping turn that passion into a sustainable livelihood. By identifying revenue models, GreenAra now supports full-time people who make the space and experience even richer. This transition—from passion project to self-sustaining ecosystem—is crucial for long-term success.

Mist Systems: Beauty That Builds a Micro-Climate

The mist system at Tulah Wellness was both aesthetic and functional. Visually, it creates a dreamy, almost ethereal atmosphere. Ecologically, it helps form a micro-climate that supports tropical plants. This reinforced how good landscape design can be beautiful and biologically intelligent at the same time.

Land Is Finite—Buy the Neighbouring Plot When You Can

Musthafa shared that he initially bought four acres and later acquired four more at double the price. The lesson is clear: if you have the opportunity to buy neighbouring land, don’t postpone it. Land doesn’t get cheaper, and expansion later often costs significantly more—financially and emotionally.

Continuous Learning Accelerates Farm Progress

This was my second time attending the Tropical Landscaping Workshop—the first was in September 2023. Surprisingly, nearly 80% of what I learned this time was new. Every edition injects fresh energy, ideas, and urgency to implement. Continuous learning doesn’t just add knowledge—it speeds up progress.

Right People Matter as Much as the Right Plants

One of the biggest benefits of such workshops is the people you meet. The first edition had more architects; this one had more farm owners. Being surrounded by like-minded people who understand the struggles, joys, and uncertainties of farm life creates a powerful support system where learning flows both ways.

Sensory Plants Transform Landscapes into Experiences

Plants like touch-me-nots, princess vine, and tattoo fern don’t just add visual beauty—they invite interaction. Touch, texture, and movement elevate a space from being seen to being felt. Tropical landscapes are sensory experiences, not just visual compositions.

Post Experiences Where They Truly Belong

Shihab Kunhahammed pointed out that I was sharing my GreenAra workshop experience on the Vaksana Farms Instagram page, which could confuse the audience. Since it was my personal learning journey, it belonged on my personal account. This simple but sharp feedback helped me realign my content strategy.

Boulders, Ferns & Water Plants Create Tropical Drama

The use of boulders around ponds, paired with ferns and water-loving tropical plants, creates a raw, immersive tropical aesthetic. While sourcing boulders in Tamil Nadu is difficult and expensive compared to Kerala, the takeaway is patience—collecting them slowly and intentionally over time.

Stories Preserve Legacy Better Than Structures

Haneena’s documentary And I Call Him My Father deeply moved me. It captured not just the making of GreenAra, but the emotional journey behind how her father created it. It reminded me that stories preserve legacy far better than physical structures. I feel inspired to create a similar transformation film for Vaksana Farms—an ode to Lakshmi Paati, Kasthuri Amma, and Sivaraman Appa.

Bamboo: The Backbone of Tropical Aesthetics

Bamboo adds instant tropical character—height, movement, sound, and texture. Sourcing diverse bamboo varieties from places like the KFRI Bamboo Nursery is essential, especially when local options are limited. Bamboo is not just a plant; it’s a design element.

Become a Collector, Not Just a Grower

Shihab’s advice struck a chord—be a collector of tropical plants. Make a list, build the collection slowly, learn propagation, and let the farm evolve organically. This mindset turns landscaping into a lifelong, joyful pursuit rather than a one-time project.

Ending Day 2 Inspired and Hungry for Day 3

Day 2 ended with physical tiredness but mental excitement. The lessons weren’t just about plants or design—they were about mindset, pace, people, and purpose. I’m genuinely excited to see what Day 3 unfolds.

This is my second time attending the Tropical Landscaping Workshop at GreenAra, Kozhikode.

But this time, my intention is very clear.

I am here to observe deeply, decide quickly, and implement obsessively at Vaksana Farms, our 13-acre organic permaculture farm.

No hoarding ideas.

No “we’ll do this someday.”

Only rapid action, real soil, and visible transformation.

1. Vertical Walls for Outdoor Bathrooms – Priority #1

One of the strongest takeaways from Day 1 was the lightweight vertical garden soil mix:

Perlite

Vermiculite

Organic matter

This combination is perfect for vertical walls—light, airy, moisture-friendly, and ideal for tropical plants.

Immediate action:

We will implement vertical green walls in our outdoor bathrooms at Vaksana Farms.

Bathrooms are intimate, sensory spaces—and greenery here will elevate the entire experience.

This goes straight into the “implement first, refine later” list.

2. Enhancing My Own Workshop: Build Your Profitable Dream Farm (9th Edition)

Among all the events I host at Vaksana, this is my most popular one.

Many of the participants at the workshop have farms and they are all eager to make it their own tropical paradise. But I noticed not many spoke about the profitability of their ventures. Dream farms have a penchant for listening to your heart. But it’s important to give space for the head too. To think deeply about profitability formulation long term viability of the dream.

My upcoming 9th edition of “Build Your Profitable Dream Farm” (Jan 27 & 28, 2026) does that. Now, am convinced even more to focus on various business models that aligns with one’s values.

This will be the best edition yet, shaped by lived experiences and lessons from my ‘100 FARMS IN 100 WEEKS’

3. Ponds That Feel Like the Tropics

Our ponds are functional—but they can be emotionally powerful.

Key learning:

Plant water-loving tropical plants along pond banks to create depth, softness, and immersion.

The goal is simple:

> When someone walks near the pond, they must feel like they’re inside a tropical forest.

4. Falling in Love with Princess Vine

Some plants don’t just look good—they invite touch.

Princess vine does exactly that.

Plan:

Train Princess vine at the entrance of our Events Hall

Let it flow over the pergola spaces

It adds a sensory layer that guests will instinctively interact with—without signage, without instruction.

5. Torch Ginger: Grow Them in Abundance

Torch Ginger has completely won me over.

Lush green foliage

Striking, dramatic flowers

Strong tropical identity

Decision:

We will grow lots of Torch Ginger—not as accents, but as a defining visual language across the farm.

6. Heliconias and More Heliconias

No tropical landscape feels complete without Heliconias.

Different shapes.

Different colours.

Different heights.

Action:

Source and grow multiple varieties, not just one token plant.

7. Food Experience Matters as Much as Plants

Another subtle but powerful insight:

Food presentation is landscape too.

Serving food in:

Earthen pots

Bamboo woven baskets

adds a deep rural authenticity that no fancy crockery can replicate.

This will become part of how food is served during retreats and workshops at Vaksana Farms.

8. Bamboo Sourcing: KFRI & Uravu

Next steps include intentional sourcing.

I plan to visit:

Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI)

Uravu Bamboo Nursery

The aim is to:

Explore different bamboo species

Understand growth patterns

Use bamboo structurally and aesthetically across the farm.

9. A 10-Day Kerala Road Trip (Learning Mode ON)

One of my personal goals:

> A slow, intentional 10-day road trip across Kerala to feature amazing farms for my 100 Farms in 100 Weeks

Purpose:

Visit interesting farms

Explore outdoor cafés

Observe innovation in small details

I want to ask people, make lists, meet farmers, and absorb ideas—then come back and implement quickly, without overthinking.

10. Back to Bali: Two Weeks of Field Learning

Kerala inspires.

But Bali executes tropical landscaping like no other place.

A two-week field visit to Bali is on the cards—with one focus only:

Rapid experimentation and implementation.

Not tourism.

Not inspiration boards.

Only field notes, sketches, and actionable ideas.

11. Becoming a Fern Grower (At Scale)

Ferns are the soul of tropical landscapes.

Decision:

I want to become a massive grower of ferns, with special focus on propagation.

Ferns give:

Softness

Layers

Shade-friendly greenery

They will be everywhere—walls, under trees, shaded paths.

12. SEVA: Volunteer Living Reimagined

Inspired by GreenAra’s volunteer spaces, we will begin work on SEVA—our volunteer accommodation.

Vision:

Hostel-style bunk beds (but spacious)

Thoughtfully designed

Strong sense of community

Plus:

A beautiful outdoor social space

A natural bio-pool for cooling down and conversations

SEVA is not accommodation.

It’s a culture-building space.

13. Flexible Alfresco Dining (Design Detail That Matters)

Instead of one massive outdoor table:

We’ll use smaller tables that can be combined.

Why?

Flexible layouts

Intimate dining or large social gatherings

Easier movement and adaptability

Sometimes, good design is simply about not locking yourself into one format.

14. Marketing the Right Way: A Conversation with Hannena

One final but important action item:

I want to sit down with Hannena (Musthafa’s daughter) and have a focused discussion on:

Attracting passionate participants

Communicating depth, not discounts

Building a tribe around retreats, not just filling seats

Marketing must reflect intentionality, not noise.

Closing Thought

Day 1 at GreenAra reminded me of something vital:

> A beautiful farm is not built by grand plans—

but by hundreds of small, well-executed decisions made consistently.

This time, I’m not here just to learn.

I’m here to build, experiment, fail fast, grow wildly—and enjoy every step of the process.

As I prepare to attend the tropical landscaping workshop at GreenAra in Kozhikode, I find myself pausing—not to plan logistics, but to set intentions.

This isn’t just another workshop on my calendar. It feels like a timely checkpoint at the very end of 2025, gently nudging me to reflect, reset, and dream a little bigger for what lies ahead.

Gratitude, Groundedness, and a Quiet Reality Check

Our farm, Vaksana Farms, was recently rated India’s Best Farmstay for 2025 by Outlook Traveller. While that recognition fills me with gratitude, it also brings a deep sense of humility.

Because honestly, when I walk through the farm, I don’t see “the best.”

I see possibility.

I see corners that can be softened, pathways that can tell better stories, trees that can be framed more thoughtfully, and landscapes that can evoke deeper emotion. Awards are affirmations—but they are never destinations.

Attending With a Beginner’s Mind (Again)

This is the second time I’m attending this workshop.

The first was in September 2023—full of excitement, inspiration, and scribbled notes.

This time, I’m returning with something more valuable than excitement: clarity.

I’m not a landscape artist.

But I am a curator of experiences.

My intention this time is not to learn how to design landscapes myself, but to understand landscapes deeply enough to:

Ask better questions

Give clearer inputs

Collaborate more meaningfully with professional landscape designers

Better inputs lead to better outputs. And that’s the gap I want to bridge.

Looking Closely at the “Small Things”

Tropical landscaping, at its best, is not loud.

It’s subtle. Layered. Intentional.

Through this workshop, I want to train my eye to notice:

Micro-details that quietly elevate a space

Innovative yet practical tropical design elements

How light, shade, texture, and movement work together

Ways nature can guide people emotionally through a space

I want to see better—because better seeing leads to better creating.

2026: Bigger Dreams, Deeper Roots

The year 2026 holds ambitious plans for Vaksana Farms—new projects, new spaces, and new experiences. This workshop feels like the right foundation stone for all of that.

One of my long-term intentions is bold and deeply personal:

To shape the farm so beautifully that it becomes a case study in tropical landscape design

To see it featured in YouTube walkthroughs, architecture journals, and landscape magazines

To eventually host tropical landscape design workshops as part of the growing bouquet of retreats and learning experiences at Vaksana Farms

Learning first. Hosting later. That order matters to me.

From Inspiration to Action

If there’s one clear intention I’m carrying into this workshop, it’s this:

> Inspiration is useless unless it turns into action.

This time, I’m attending with focus.

With questions.

With a notebook meant not just for ideas—but for execution plans.

I want what I learn here to visibly reflect on the farm in the months to come.

Ending 2025 With Purpose, Entering 2026 With Energy

There’s something poetic about attending this workshop at the tail end of 2025. It feels like a closing ritual—and an opening one.

I’m walking in grateful, grounded, curious, and incredibly motivated.

Here’s to learning again.

Seeing deeper.

And creating landscapes that don’t just look beautiful—but feel right.

Super excited for what’s ahead