In a social media post that went viral, creator Harish Varadharajan of the Chennai-based agritech startup Fragaria announced that the company is moving its headquarters to Bengaluru.

He claimed that a number of considerations, such as the city’s temperature, market accessibility, startup-friendly laws, expat friendliness, and the robust startup ecosystem in Bengaluru, had influenced the choice.

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“We put everything we had in Chennai, creating a worldwide brand and even growing strawberries in spite of all the obstacles.  However, this change was unavoidable due to Bengaluru’s favorable environment, supporting agriculture legislation, and improved startup prospects, Varadharajan wrote.

The announcement has rekindled discussion over why Tamil Nadu, despite its talent pool and facilities, finds it difficult to retain rapidly expanding startups, even if the company’s research and development farm would remain in Chennai.

Online responses revealed a clear rift.  Some commenters questioned the climate argument, pointing out that excessive heat is mostly limited to April and May and that sea breezes are present in Chennai for the majority of the year.  “Chennai already has infrastructure and talent.”  One user remarked, “Sustained startup support is what’s missing.”

Others complained that other states were profiting from Tamil Nadu’s infrastructure and education investments.  Another local startup relocates to Bengaluru.  A professional bemoaned, “We develop the talent, but Bengaluru benefits.”

Bengaluru’s advantage, according to the move’s proponents, is not just its livability but also its liberal policies that foster innovation.  Bengaluru prevails despite the heavy traffic and expensive expenses.  One critic stated, “Young talent wants to work where startups thrive, not just in factories.”

Some proposed substitutes in Tamil Nadu, such Coimbatore, which they think could replicate Pune’s development.

However, Varadharajan stressed that Chennai will continue to be Fragaria’s original home, with the R&D farm operating there and providing space for more projects in the state.