In the bustling city of Chennai, Shriram Gopal stands as a testament to the wonders of innovation and determination. Utilizing hydroponics technology, he has transformed traditional agriculture norms and built a business empire with a turnover surpassing Rs 2 crore annually.
Sri Ram, an engineering graduate in Electrical and Electronics, later pursued a Masters in Marketing from the prestigious Kali Donian Business School in the United Kingdom. Originally, his family was into the business of photo processing, led by his father, Gopalakrishnan. Unfortunately, due to health challenges and dwindling profits, the business was shut down in 2007.
Being an avid camera enthusiast during his college years, Sri Ram opened a high-end camera repair shop after his studies. He also had a stable job in an IT company, earning a commendable salary. However, his trajectory shifted when a friend introduced him to a hydroponics video on YouTube, sparking an interest that would soon transform his life.
Understanding the agricultural backbone of India, Sri Ram recognized the urgency to integrate technology with farming. With urbanization rapidly consuming agricultural land and water scarcity affecting irrigation, he saw the potential in hydroponics – a method to grow plants without soil. The initial experiments began on weekends atop his father’s defunct factory’s rooftop. Not only did the venture show promise, but it also remarkably improved his father’s health.
Seeking to expand his knowledge, Sri Ram connected with international companies specializing in hydroponics. After absorbing the necessary expertise, he proposed representing these companies in India and investing in the innovative agricultural niche.
With a vision in mind and a seed capital of five lakh rupees, “Future Forms” was born. Hydroponics technology allowed individuals to cultivate trees, plants, and vegetables within their flats or homes, making farming more accessible. This business model quickly found traction, and in just five years, the turnover skyrocketed to Rs 2 crore. Today, “Future Forms” employs over 60 individuals and has attracted 12 investors.
Shriram Gopal’s journey from a camera enthusiast to the pioneer of a hydroponic revolution in India exemplifies the power of innovation and resilience. Through “Future Forms”, he has not only built a successful business but has also paved the way for sustainable agriculture in an increasingly urbanized India.
