Gateway to world: Kerala juice seller travels to 10 nations; China next on list
A humble sugarcane juice vendor from Kannur, Hashim VP, has turned his roadside stall into a launchpad for global exploration. For nearly three decades, his earnings have funded trips to ten countries, including Israel and Egypt. Now, the 67-year-old is preparing for his next adventure to China with his wife and brother, proving dreams can be realized through dedication.
![]()
KANNUR: For nearly three decades, Hashim VP, a native of Pappinisseri, has been selling sugarcane juice outside the Jawahar Municipal Stadium in Kannur—quietly transforming his modest roadside stall into a gateway to the world.What started as a simple livelihood gradually fuelled his greatest passion: travel. Over the years, Hashim has visited 10 countries, including Israel, Palestine, Jordan, Egypt, Iraq, Malaysia, Thailand, Azerbaijan, Turkey and Saudi Arabia, turning his dream of exploring the world into a lifelong journey.Now, he is preparing for his next adventure—a trip to China in the coming months—accompanied by his wife and elder brother.Speaking to ANI, Hashim said, "I travelled to 10 countries so far, including Israel, Palestine, Jordan, Egypt, Iraq, Malaysia, Thailand, Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia. The last trip I did was to Turkey; it is beautiful. Now, after 3 months, I'm planning to visit China." Using the income from selling sugarcane juice, Hashim has journeyed far beyond his hometown, always accompanied by his wife, Haseena.His first international trip sparked a passion for travel, opening the door to countless adventures.
Since then, he has explored destinations across India and abroad, visiting ten countries in total.Looking back on the start of his journey, the 67-year-old recalled that his first trip to Delhi was in 2012. At the time, June and July marked the off-season for his business, and he would typically close his shop and stay home. However, a conversation with his elder brother shifted his perspective on life.His brother spoke to him about the importance of travel and the experiences it offers, sparking a passion within him."From then on, I have not stopped travelling and continue to explore new places whenever I can," he said.