In recent years, India’s street food industry has opened new doors of opportunity for countless people. One such story is that of Danny Baby and Parvathi Jayakumar, a couple from Kerala who once struggled with low-paying nursing jobs but are now earning a comfortable living by running a food cart. Their journey is a reminder that determination and courage to take risks can completely transform lives.

From Nursing Jobs to a Food Business Dream

Danny and Parvathi both hold diplomas in nursing and paramedical sciences. Despite their qualifications, they were earning no more than ₹5,000 a month in private hospitals. Dissatisfied with the meagre pay and lack of growth, they tried several other jobs but never found real satisfaction. Eventually, they made a bold decision—to step away from their medical careers and launch their own street food business.

Just a month ago, they set up a modest food cart at X-ray Junction in Cherthala, Alappuzha. Today, they serve tea, coffee, hot bhajji, fries, and other snacks to a growing customer base.

A Leap of Faith That Changed Everything

Speaking about their new venture, Parvathi shared in an interview that the support of local people has been their biggest strength. “Our home is just two kilometers away. We open the cart at 3 PM and work until 9 PM. Shopkeepers, union workers, and nearby residents not only welcomed us but also helped us set up the stall,” she said.

Danny added that returning from Hyderabad was a turning point. “The salaries there were not sufficient. When we came back, private hospitals were offering only ₹5,000 a month, while daily wage laborers could earn up to ₹1,000 in a single day. That made us rethink our choices.”

Starting Small, Learning Fast

The couple bought their food cart for ₹50,000 from a friend. In the beginning, cooking and serving customers was not easy for them. But local residents guided them with recipes, tips, and practical advice. Slowly, Danny and Parvathi improved their skills, gained confidence, and built a loyal customer base.

Now, their cart generates daily earnings of ₹2,000–₹3,000, far higher than what they used to make in hospitals. Customers enjoy their menu, and the couple already has plans to expand by adding items like dosa. However, they admit that more helping hands will be needed before they scale further.

The only challenges they face are heavy rains and possible relocation due to ongoing highway construction. Yet, with the monsoon season coming to an end, they expect business to grow even faster.

A Love Story That Started in Nursing School

Their professional journey is closely tied to their personal one. Danny and Parvathi first met while pursuing their diploma at St. Xavier’s School in Kuruppamthara, Kottayam. Their friendship blossomed into love, and soon after completing their studies, they decided to marry.

Danny began his career at a private hospital in Hyderabad, while Parvathi completed her training in Malappuram before joining him in Telangana. Initially, their families were hesitant to accept the marriage, but over time, they gave their blessing.

Redefining Success on Their Own Terms

Today, this couple stands as an example of how ordinary individuals can rewrite their destiny with determination. From struggling with low-paying nursing jobs to running a successful street food cart, their story shows that taking risks and following one’s passion can lead to a far more fulfilling life.

Danny and Parvathi’s journey is not just about earning more money—it is about gaining independence, satisfaction, and the courage to pursue a dream.