English
Shark Tank India returns for its fourth season, the upcoming season introduces a new judge, Viraj Bahl, founder and managing director of Veeba Foods. His journey of innovation, and success may add a fresh perspective to the show’s panel of seasoned investors, including Aman Gupta, Anupam Mittal, Namita Thapar, Vineeta Singh, and Peyush Bansal.
Viraj Bahl is a renowned entrepreneur and a key figure in India’s fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry. He is the visionary behind Veeba Foods, a leading manufacturer of sauces and condiments. Since its launch in 2013, Veeba has risen to prominence in the Indian food sector. However, Viraj’s journey to the top was far from easy, defined by personal sacrifices and unwavering determination.
Viraj’s fascination with the food industry began early, as he often accompanied his father, Rajiv Bahl, to their family-run food factory. Working at the Fun Foods stall in Aahar, Delhi, further deepened his interest. However, his father had a condition before joining the family business, Viraj had to demonstrate his ability to support the family independently.
Determined to meet this challenge, Viraj pursued marine engineering and graduated from Singapore Polytechnic. He secured a high-paying job with a merchant navy company, and by 2002, he achieved his father’s benchmark of a Rs 3 lakh monthly income, earning his trust and approval.
In 2002, Viraj joined Fun Foods, where he played a crucial role in transforming it into a household name. However, a major turning point came in 2008 when his father decided to sell the company to Germany’s Dr. Oetker for Rs 110 crore. Viraj strongly opposed this decision, feeling it was a professional and emotional setback. Despite the sale, the experience fueled his ambition to carve out his own success.
After the sale of Fun Foods, Viraj ventured into the restaurant business with a chain called Pocket Full in 2009. Unfortunately, the venture faced financial hurdles, leading to the closure of all six outlets by 2013. Left in a precarious position, Viraj and his wife made the bold decision to sell their house and invest the proceeds into his next venture.
In 2013, Viraj returned to his roots in the food industry and founded Veeba Foods in Neemrana, Rajasthan. Focused on creating innovative and high-quality sauces, Veeba quickly gained a foothold in the market and grew into a leading brand.
Under Viraj’s leadership, Veeba Foods has seen exponential growth. By 2023–24, the company is projected to achieve revenues of ₹1,000 crore. While the business remains privately held, Viraj’s major stake, coupled with strong investor backing, has been instrumental in its success.
Viraj Bahl’s inspiring journey from setbacks to creating a thriving Rs 1,000 crore empire embodies resilience, vision, and innovation.
For breaking news and live news updates, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram. Read more on Latest Business News on India.com.
