idea factory

  Introduction Perumkulam, a serene village in Kerala, has earned the unique distinction of being the state’s first book village. Recognized for its deep-rooted literary culture, Perumkulam (also known as Pusthakagramam) stands as a testament to the power of books and the transformative potential of literature in community development. M. T. Vasudevan Nair, a legendary Malayalam writer, acknowledged this remarkable transformation, further cementing its place in Kerala’s cultural landscape. Perumkulam was officially declared as Kerala’s first book village by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in 2021. Background Situated 5 km from Kottarakkara, Perumkulam is located along the historic Veluthampi Dalawa Road. It was once a typical Kerala village, thriving on agriculture and traditional livelihoods. However, a collective vision to integrate books into everyday life has redefined its identity. The idea was simple yet powerful: make books accessible to all, instilling a culture of r...

Creativity is like a river. It flows steadily, sometimes gently carving its path, other times rushing forward with uncontainable force. At its core, creativity is not something that can be captured, held still, or even fully understood. It is an intrinsic part of human nature, flowing freely through our minds, hearts, and imaginations. Just like a river, creativity can begin from the smallest of sources—a fleeting thought, an overheard conversation, or a quiet moment of reflection. These droplets of inspiration gather over time, merging to form the stream of ideas that shape our world. But the journey of creativity is not always a smooth one. It may encounter obstacles—boulders of doubt, dams of fear, or dry spells of uncertainty. Yet, just like a river, creativity finds a way to navigate these challenges, often emerging even stronger and more vibrant. The Flow of Inspiration Inspiration is the lifeblood of creativity. Just as the river draws its water from springs, rainfall, and tribu...

Gramo Zapiens is an innovative YouTube channel combining Malayalam and English in its identity. “Gramo” (from the Malayalam word “ഗ്രാമം” meaning village) reflects the channel’s strong connection to rural life, while “Zapiens” (derived from the English “sapiens”) signifies wisdom and knowledge. The channel serves as a platform for ordinary people from rural backgrounds to share unique travel experiences, forgotten traditions, and valuable knowledge rooted in village life. With its dynamic logo designed by Prakash Varma, Gramo Zapiens captures the essence of blending tradition with modernity. Key Themes: 1. Travel: Exploring hidden rural destinations, untouched by mainstream tourism, offering immersive cultural and local experiences. 2. Unique Knowledge: Highlighting lesser-known facts, skills, and wisdom passed down through generations in rural communities. 3. Forgotten Traditions: Reviving customs, crafts, and practices that are at risk of fading away, showcasing their historical and ...

Presenting some of the projects I’ve ideated and executed in my native village, Perumkulam (Pusthakagramam), Kerala’s first and India’s second book village. These initiatives reflect a deep connection to my roots, blending creativity with a vision to uplift the cultural identity of the community. A creator’s life attains true significance when their work contributes to the greater good of their homeland. The journey becomes even more fulfilling when they get the opportunity to accelerate their community’s cultural legacy. 1. Radio Park Kiosk - The concept of reviving the radio broadcasts that once echoed through the Perumkulam Radio Junction was presented to the Bappuji Memorial Library. With their support in funding and logistics, a miniature version of the old, forgotten radio pavilion was created, restoring the lost voices and precious memories of the village. #radio #park #kiosk #radiojunction 2. Pusthakappura – A symbol of pride for Pusthakagramam, Pusthakappura arose from a sugge...

In the verdant forests of Japan, a time-honored technique known as "daisugi" offers a sustainable and inspiring approach to forestry. Perfected since the 14th century, this method transforms the cedar trees into fountains of life, allowing them to flourish and provide wood multiple times without the need to fell them. Through careful and skilled pruning, these majestic cedars are encouraged to sprout new, upward shoots. These shoots grow into uniform, straight timbers, free of knots, embodying strength and durability. This wood, revered for its quality, becomes the perfect material for construction and fine carpentry, cherished by artisans and builders alike. Moreover, this wood boasts a natural resistance to insects and is remarkably easy to work with, making it a favored choice for those who seek harmony with nature in their creations. Plant Trees, Plant Hope—this philosophy resonates deeply, reminding us that in each seed and every careful cut, there lies the potential for...

Satva Designs' branding project for Mayim Greens is a visual symphony inspired by the rhythmic nature of water. Rooted in the Hebrew word "Mayim," meaning water, our brand's typefaces mimic the graceful flow of water, symbolizing adaptability and continuity. The typography, reminiscent of flowing currents, echoes the brand's commitment to fluidity and transformation. The iconic water drop, crafted from the letter 'a,' embodies both a droplet and a leaf, symbolizing life and nature. The launch at a hydroponic farm in Karnataka underscores our dedication to sustainable practices. Our branding extends beyond the present, strategically designed for a future that encompasses oils, Aqua, and more. This dynamic identity serves as a canvas for Mayim Greens' evolving ventures. As the brand ventures into oils, it seamlessly adapts, ensuring a consistent and versatile presence across diverse industries. Mayim Greens: where innovation meets the ever-flowing stream...