The Story of Anwer Sadique and the Journey of Pranavam Resort & Spa
My name is Anwer Sadique, and I come from a small, peaceful village called Pozhuthana in Wayanad — the very place where Pranavam Resort & Spa stands today.
I was born into a middle-class family, growing up with my parents and two elder brothers. Life was simple, and like many young people, I had dreams of continuing my education and building a better future.
But sometimes, life has different plans.
After completing my 12th grade in 2006, I wanted to pursue higher studies. I applied to several institutes, but most required donations that my family could not afford.
It was a difficult moment.
Instead of giving up, I chose a different path — learning through experience.
During this time, I met Mr. Ravindran, who was running a farm tourism initiative in his estate. Foreign guests would visit, and I got the chance to assist him.
That was my first exposure to hospitality.
Soon after, I joined as a helper during the construction of what would later become Pranavam Homestay.
For eight months, I worked on-site, learning not from books — but from real life.
By the end, I had saved some money, but more importantly, I had learned the value of hard work and patience.
One day, Mr. Ravindran asked if I would manage the homestay once it opened.
I was hesitant.
I had no experience. I didn’t know English. I had never worked in hospitality.
That’s when he told me something I will never forget:
“You don’t learn first and then do. You do — and then you learn.”
That moment changed everything.
When the homestay began, most of our guests were foreigners.
I was shy. I avoided conversations because I couldn’t speak English.
But I knew I had to change.
So I taught myself.
Watching English news, listening to conversations, and practicing every day.
Slowly, I began communicating.
Within a year, I was confidently interacting with guests.
The next challenge was computers.
I had never used one before.
With help from friends, I learned the basics and began managing guest records and communication.
From 2007 onward, I kept learning about tourism, guests, and operations.
In 2017–18, a new vision emerged.
Mr. Homayon envisioned transforming the homestay into a full-fledged resort.
Construction began in 2018.
By 2019, the resort was ready.
We started small, but with belief.
Then came COVID-19.
The resort closed.
It was one of the most difficult periods of my life.
But we didn’t give up.
We reopened slowly, rebuilt step by step, and improved the property continuously.
Today, Pranavam Resort & Spa stands as a beautiful, fully operational resort welcoming guests from around the world.
And I serve as its General Manager.
From a village boy with no English or computer skills to managing a resort — this journey has come full circle.
None of this would have been possible without the trust and guidance of Mr. Ravindran and Mr. Homayon.
Pranavam is not just a resort.
It is a story of growth, resilience, and people.
And every guest becomes a part of that story.
