In Ludhiana, siblings Asthika and Shankar Narula have turned a family idea into a thriving Rs 26 lakh venture by growing authentic Kashmiri saffron indoors using aeroponics, a soil-free cultivation method that recreates ideal growing conditions within a controlled environment.
- Indoor saffron cultivated via aeroponics controls temperature, humidity, CO₂, and light.
- Family spent five years researching, including learning traditional Kashmir saffron farming.
- Two farming seasons have generated nearly Rs 26 lakh in revenue so far.
What happened
During the COVID-19 lockdown, banker Vikas Narula began researching indoor saffron farming after studying successful techniques abroad. Inspired, his children Asthika and Shankar, despite coming from non-agricultural backgrounds, committed to making the idea a reality. Over five years, the family immersed themselves in research, traditional saffron farming practices in Kashmir, and consulted scientists to replicate the ideal growing conditions indoors using aeroponics.
They established a soil-free facility in Ludhiana equipped with climate control systems that manage temperature, humidity, CO₂, and light to mimic Kashmiri conditions. Starting with limited seed stock and overcoming transport challenges, the family succeeded in raising authentic saffron indoors. Their first harvest in the 2024–25 season produced 1.3 kg, selling largely abroad, and the current season has already added significant domestic sales, bringing total revenue close to Rs 26 lakh.
Why it feels good
This indoor farming approach represents a fresh direction for agriculture by removing the dependency on vast fields and seasonal changes, particularly important as traditional saffron farming faces climate-related challenges. It combines technology with heritage, preserving the uniqueness of Kashmiri saffron while innovating sustainable production methods.
For the Narula family, the journey was deeply personal and emotional, marking a breakthrough that turned an experimental idea into a viable business supporting local farmers and fostering Indian contributions to the global saffron market. Their story exemplifies perseverance, innovation, and the potential for new farming futures.
What to enjoy or watch next
Grow Grower is expanding its reach by partnering with 30 farms across India, aiming to scale indoor saffron farming and increase domestic and international supply. Follow their progress as they refine cultivation practices, enhance collaboration, and sustainably grow operations while balancing infrastructure and energy costs that affect return on investment.
As interest in vertical and indoor farming grows worldwide, this model offers inspiration for aspiring agri-entrepreneurs interested in specialty crops with premium value. Watch for how Grow Grower’s success might encourage more innovation in India’s agricultural landscape and beyond, helping build resilient food and spice systems in the face of changing climates.