Sridhar Vembu is one of India’s most respected entrepreneurs, but his life away from the spotlight is what truly explains him the best. The Zoho founder and Padma Shri awardee is known not only for building a global tech company but also for choosing a simple, grounded way of living. While most tech leaders prefer luxury homes in big cities, Vembu lives in a rural home in Tamil Nadu that keeps him connected to his roots.
Leaving Silicon valley for Tamil Nadu
In 2019, Vembu made headlines when he left Silicon Valley and returned to Tamil Nadu. He settled in Govindaperi village near Tenkasi, close to Zoho’s rural campus. The decision surprised many, but Vembu has often said that talent can be found everywhere, not just in big cities.
A home built for climate and comfort
Vembu’s home in Govindaperi is not a luxury villa. It is a simple house designed to suit the local climate and surroundings. According to the Archidust report, the house follows traditional Tamil rural architecture. The walls are made using brick or mud-based materials that naturally keep the house cool. The roof is likely tiled or thatched, helping reduce heat during the summer months.
Natural light and open spaces
The house includes open spaces such as verandahs and courtyards. These features allow fresh air and sunlight to flow through the home during the day. Because of this design, the house does not rely heavily on air conditioning or artificial lighting. Comfort is achieved through natural ventilation rather than modern gadgets.
Sustainability at the core
Sustainability plays a key role in Vembu’s lifestyle. His home uses local materials that require less energy and are easier to maintain. The design works with nature instead of against it, reducing electricity use and environmental impact. Such homes are better suited to India’s climate than concrete-heavy modern buildings.
Part of a larger rural ecosystem
Vembu’s home is part of a larger rural setup that includes farms, open fields, and community spaces. He is actively involved in agriculture and supports education initiatives in the area. A learning centre for local children operates nearby, highlighting his focus on community growth.
From village roots to global success
Born in 1968 in a village in Tamil Nadu’s Thanjavur district, Vembu grew up close to nature. His early life in a rural setting shaped his thinking long before he entered the world of technology. He studied engineering at IIT Madras and later earned a PhD from Princeton University. After working in the United States and building Zoho into a global software company, Vembu chose not to stay tied to a city-centric lifestyle. Vembu’s work and personal life are closely connected.
