The vibrant state of Kerala is known for its rich culinary traditions, and one of its most beloved treats is the Kozhikode halwa. Known for its sweet, melt-in-the-mouth texture, Kozhikode halwa has been a staple of the region's rich food culture for generations. However, four enterprising friends from Kerala have decided to take this iconic sweet treat to the world. Their startup, Fulva, specializes in delivering 24 different varieties of Kozhikode halwa, alongside other traditional snacks, and has garnered a significant following.

What started as a small idea between four friends—Shabas Ahamed N C, Sanu Muhammed C, Irfan Safar S, and Thesreef Ali P K—has now blossomed into a thriving business. Fulva has earned Rs 84 lakh in revenue, growing rapidly by tapping into the widespread love for authentic regional delicacies.

The Birth of Fulva

The idea for Fulva stemmed from a deep appreciation for the food heritage of Kozhikode and a desire to share it with the world. The four friends were driven by the belief that traditional Kerala snacks and sweets, especially Kozhikode halwa, deserved to be recognized beyond the region’s borders. They realized that despite the dish's popularity locally, it had limited exposure to a larger audience.

After numerous discussions and brainstorming sessions, the idea to start a food business that would deliver Kozhikode halwa and other Kerala snacks was born. The friends chose the name "Fulva," which means "flower" in Arabic, symbolizing the blossoming of a new venture rooted in tradition.

A Sweet Success

Fulva’s success story is built around its deep respect for traditional recipes, authentic ingredients, and a strong commitment to quality. The business began with just a few varieties of halwa, but as word spread, demand grew rapidly. Today, Fulva offers a staggering 24 different types of Kozhikode halwa, each with its own unique twist.

From the traditional sugar and ghee version to variations infused with local flavors like saffron, cashews, and cardamom, Fulva’s halwas are made with the finest ingredients, preserving the authenticity of the original recipes. The startup also offers a variety of traditional Kerala snacks, including banana chips, achappam (rose cookies), and unniyappam (sweet rice fritters), further expanding its menu.

Authenticity and Quality Above All

One of the key factors behind Fulva’s success is its unwavering commitment to authenticity. The team sources all its ingredients from trusted local suppliers in Kerala to ensure the highest quality in every product. The halwa is prepared using time-tested techniques, and each batch is handcrafted with care to retain its traditional taste and texture. This attention to detail has helped Fulva build a loyal customer base, both in India and internationally.

The startup also prides itself on its sustainability efforts. All products are packaged using eco-friendly materials, reflecting the team’s commitment to the environment and responsible business practices. This eco-conscious approach has resonated with environmentally conscious consumers and further set Fulva apart from other food businesses.

Expanding to the World

While Fulva’s roots are firmly planted in Kerala, the startup has a vision of bringing the flavors of Kozhikode to the global stage. The team recognized early on that the world was becoming increasingly interested in authentic, high-quality regional foods. Fulva took advantage of this trend by launching an online platform that allows customers from around the world to order its halwa and snacks directly.

Fulva’s expansion has been fueled by word-of-mouth, positive reviews, and the growing online food community. With customers from various countries, including the UAE, the UK, and the US, the startup has rapidly scaled its operations to meet the demand. In just a few years, Fulva has managed to create a strong brand presence, earning Rs 84 lakh in annual revenue.

Empowering Local Communities

Fulva’s success is also intertwined with its commitment to the local community. The team works closely with local farmers and suppliers to source ingredients, ensuring that the business benefits the region economically. By creating a demand for traditional ingredients and products, Fulva is also helping to preserve Kerala’s culinary heritage.

Furthermore, Fulva is dedicated to providing employment opportunities to local artisans and home cooks who specialize in traditional Kerala snacks. The team collaborates with them to create a diverse range of products, helping them earn a steady income while preserving time-honored cooking methods.

Looking Ahead: Scaling and Innovation

As Fulva continues to grow, the team has ambitious plans for the future. In addition to expanding its product offerings and reaching more international markets, the startup is exploring new ways to innovate. The team plans to experiment with new flavors, create limited-edition variations, and collaborate with celebrity chefs and influencers to build brand awareness.

Fulva is also focused on enhancing its online presence and increasing its customer base. By focusing on quality, tradition, and sustainability, the startup aims to further solidify its position as a leading brand in the world of regional Indian sweets.

Conclusion

From a small idea to a thriving business, Fulva’s journey is a testament to the power of traditional flavors and the potential of regional food startups. By staying true to its roots and prioritizing authenticity and quality, Fulva has been able to carve a niche in the global food market, earning Rs 84 lakh in revenue and serving thousands of happy customers worldwide.

The story of Fulva also highlights the growing demand for regional, handmade products in today’s globalized world, where people are increasingly looking for authentic, high-quality food experiences. With its commitment to preserving Kerala’s culinary heritage and expanding its reach, Fulva is poised to become a household name, bringing the delicious tastes of Kozhikode halwa and other Kerala treats to food lovers across the globe.