Magazine Visionary Built Kerala’s Business Narrative
From commerce lecture halls to publishing, Kurian Abraham built a business media empire, forever altering Kerala’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. His publications fueled local businesses and shaped the state’s economic outlook, inspiring generations of entrepreneurs.
Pioneering a Business Magazine
After teaching and working in journalism, Mr. Abraham pursued his passion for magazines. He transitioned from journalism to launch Kerala Spectrum, then began Rubber Asia, which went on to become the top magazine in the rubber industry. Recognizing an opening in regional business news, he then founded Dhanam in 1987. At the time, Kerala’s business climate was underdeveloped, and Dhanam became a vital voice.
Dhanam has diversified into books, business events, and digital publishing over the years. Dhanam Business Media is one of Kerala’s most respected media organizations. Mr. Abraham, as Chairman & Chief Editor of Dhanam Publications, shared insights from his journey, discussing business media evolution and his guiding values. His key drivers have been passion, positivity, teamwork, and a love for business storytelling.
Challenges and Triumphs
Mr. Abraham, inspired by publications like Reader’s Digest, aimed to create something impactful with Dhanam. He had built up experience at Indian Express and Financial Express. Launching Dhanam proved challenging, requiring building a team and distribution network. Despite hurdles, Dhanam secured its place in Kerala’s business media landscape.
Dhanam‘s digital presence expanded around 2018. Its website, DhanamOnline.com, now gets up to 24 lakh monthly visitors, with over 1 crore page views. The Dhanam Titan Show video series and english.DhanamOnline.com, focused on English business news in Kerala, were also established.
Shaping Entrepreneurship
Dhanam played a key role in promoting business and entrepreneurship within Kerala. It provided visibility for entrepreneurs when business was viewed with skepticism. Initiatives, like summits, created networking platforms. Dhanam‘s initiatives include conferences, summits, and workshops, and have created platforms for networking, learning, and idea exchange. Events like the Annual Business Summit & Award Nite have drawn business leaders and global investors. An early feature on Kochouseph Chittilappilly, founder of V-Guard, is a prime example.
“From the beginning, Dhanam stood out as the only voice championing business in Kerala.”
—Kurian Abraham, Chairman & Chief Editor, Dhanam Publications
Dhanam influenced investment habits and promoted wealth creation. The magazine has spotlighted early-stage entrepreneurs, who built large enterprises. It has inspired many to become entrepreneurs, fostering a pro-business mindset. The publication aims to inspire business success and support a pro-business mindset in Kerala.
Impacting Economic Thought and Policy
Dhanam pioneered honoring entrepreneurs and business leaders in Kerala, influencing policies by highlighting issues such as industrial policies and tax issues. The publication serves as a forum for businesses, regardless of political affiliation, and has never compromised on its editorial values. The magazine has directly influenced business development and entrepreneurial culture.
Colleges now have entrepreneurship clubs and government-supported incubation centers. Organizations like TiE have become more active, partially inspired by Dhanam‘s initiatives. The magazine consistently highlighted investment opportunities in banking and the stock market. According to the India Brand Equity Foundation, the Indian media and entertainment industry is projected to reach $55-65 billion by 2030 (IBEF 2024).
The Business Summit
The Dhanam Business Summit & Award Nite evolved from smaller events. It brings in speakers from India and abroad, and has been expanded to include summits focused on retail, MSMEs, and healthcare. This year’s theme, “Entrepreneurship: Creating Impact Beyond Profit,” signifies a shift to purpose-driven business, encouraging entrepreneurs to embrace social responsibility.
The summit’s chief guest will be Guneet Monga Kapoor, with keynote speakers like Faizal Kottikollon and Muralee Thummarukudy. The Dhanam Powerlist, spotlighting Kerala-based companies with ₹1,000 crore+ turnover, will also be launched. Awardees include Dhanam Businessman of the Year and Startup of the Year. An independent jury selects awardees without charging fees, ensuring credibility.
Kerala’s Business Climate
While Kerala’s business climate faces challenges, improvements in ease of doing business are visible. The state offers immense potential in tourism, healthcare, software, and financial services. The entertainment industry is poised for growth, with creative talent reaching global audiences. Mr. Abraham believes the entertainment sector is set to become a significant contributor to the state’s economy.
The publication’s mission to inspire business success and a pro-business mindset in Kerala continues to be relevant. The magazine continues to play a crucial role in shaping Kerala’s pro-entrepreneurship mindset.
