Rayagada: In today’s world, finding a stable job has become a daunting challenge for many young people. While most of them move from one interview to another, chasing uncertain opportunities, Chandra Ramesh chose a path less traveled. He turned to farming—not merely to earn a living, but to create hope and opportunity. By cultivating ‘MARIGOLDS‘ and providing employment to others, he has not only made himself self-reliant but also brought smiles and stability to dozens of families.
Earlier, flower sellers in Odisha had to depend entirely on Andhra Pradesh to meet the demand for flowers during festivals, rituals, and ceremonies. But Chandra transformed this scenario. By producing flowers locally, he now supplies not only his own district but also neighboring areas such as Andhra Pradesh, Nabarangpur, Berhampur, and Rajamahendravaram. His vision has helped reduce dependence on external sources and strengthened the local economy.
Chandra is the only child of Bangari Babu and his mother. His father worked tirelessly to provide him with a good education, hoping Chandra would secure a stable job and make the family proud. Chandra successfully completed his B.Com and computer studies at a college near Tadepalligudem, Andhra Pradesh. Yet, instead of following a conventional career path, he returned home with determination and eagerness to work alongside his father and expand the family nursery.
Chandra has leased 40 acres of land in Kothapeta village of Rayagada block, dedicating 4 acres exclusively to cultivating marigold flowers. Every day, he and his family in Kothapeta village rise before dawn to plant, water, and tend to the flowers with care and precision. Each acre yields around 150 kilograms of marigolds, generating approximately Rs 60,000 per acre. With four acres under marigold cultivation, Chandra earns nearly Rs 2.4 lakh every month. The remaining land is used to grow cauliflower and cabbage, ensuring diverse agricultural productivity and a sustainable income.
“I completed my Bachelor of Commerce, and after that, I had no wish to pursue a conventional job. My father did not force me either. To expand our family nursery, I leased 40 acres of land and focused on agriculture. We provide employment to around 50 people, including 10 to 12 workers from other states. We also have two supervisors, and everyone here is happy, receiving their salaries on a weekly basis,” said Chandra Ramesh.
Chandra also encourages young people who think they must leave their state for better opportunities.
“Many go outside for jobs, but they can stay here, work, and earn while living with their families. Working here with family support is far better than facing challenges alone outside. Together, we can grow, succeed, and live happily,” he said.
Chandra’s success is not measured by money alone. He has provided employment to around 50 people, including workers from Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and other regions. Both men and women working with him express pride and satisfaction in being part of his venture, feeling respected and valued.
“We did not have work in our area, but here we are planting marigolds and earning a livelihood. We have been working here for the last five months, and we are happy. When the flowers bloom, we also help in collecting them,” said one worker.
“I used to work in West Bengal, but I was not happy there and did not earn much. Since coming here, I have been earning more over the past three months. I can send money home, and my family is very happy. Working here has truly changed my life. I enjoy the work, and we receive our salaries on time. It has brought real happiness to my life,” shared another worker from West Bengal.
Today, Chandra Ramesh stands as a symbol of hope, courage, and inspiration. In an era where many young people feel disheartened by unemployment, he demonstrates that determination, hard work, and innovative thinking can transform even the smallest dream into a reality.
By choosing farming over a conventional job, Chandra has not only built a thriving business but also planted seeds of opportunity, prosperity, and happiness in his community. His story reminds everyone that with vision, dedication, and compassion, it is possible to create meaningful change that benefits not just oneself, but entire families and communities.
