Early Life and Education
Born in Delhi in 1980, Viraj Bahl showed an early inclination toward business and entrepreneurship. He pursued his higher education in Industrial Engineering from Singapore Polytechnic, graduating in 2002. Upon returning to India, Bahl joined his family’s business, Fun Foods a company specialised in sauces and seasonings. His sharp business acumen and strategic thinking led to rapid growth for the brand, eventually catching the attention of German conglomerate Dr. Oetker, which acquired Fun Foods in 2008 for ₹110 crore.
A Setback in the Restaurant Business
Fuelled by his earlier success, Bahl ventured into the restaurant industry in 2009. However, this chapter did not unfold as planned. Despite his relentless efforts, the startup faced significant challenges and was eventually shut down by 2013. It was a tough phase that tested Bahl’s resilience and determination. In a bold move to fund his next business venture, he sold his house a decision that, though difficult at the time, became a pivotal turning point in his entrepreneurial journey.
The Birth of Veeba Foods
In 2013, Viraj Bahl founded Veeba Foods with a clear vision: to bring premium quality sauces and seasonings to India’s quick-service restaurant (QSR) market. Drawing valuable lessons from his previous experiences, he focused on innovation, superior taste, and healthier ingredients. His meticulous approach resonated strongly with the industry, and Veeba quickly established a strong foothold in the B2B segment.
Soon after, Veeba expanded into the retail market, making its products a staple in Indian households. Today, Veeba stands as one of the most trusted names in the Indian food industry, offering a diverse range of products including mayonnaise, salad dressings, sauces, and dips. The brand’s commitment to authenticity, quality, and health-conscious choices has won the hearts of millions, both in India and abroad.
What began as a small startup has now evolved into a ₹1,000 crore brand, serving both commercial kitchens and everyday consumers with equal excellence.
Recognition and Role on Shark Tank India
Viraj Bahl’s contributions to the Indian food industry did not go unnoticed. In 2019, he was featured in The Economic Times’ prestigious “40 Under 40” list, recognizing him as one of India’s most promising young business leaders.
In 2025, Bahl further expanded his influence by joining the panel of investors on Shark Tank India Season 4. On the show, he shares insights from his entrepreneurial journey, mentors aspiring founders, and invests in innovative startups. His presence on Shark Tank reflects not just his business success, but also his deep understanding of building brands from the ground up.
Personal Life and Beliefs
Beyond his business pursuits, Viraj Bahl is a family man. He is married to Ridhima Bahl, and together they have two children. Despite his demanding schedule, Bahl emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. His humility, transparency about his failures, and grounded personality have made him a respected figure within the startup ecosystem.
Legacy and Inspiration
Viraj Bahl’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and unwavering belief in oneself. His journey from shutting down a failed restaurant business to building one of India’s leading food brands is a powerful reminder that failure is not the end but a stepping stone to greatness.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, Bahl’s life offers an invaluable lesson: setbacks are not defeats they are opportunities to rebuild stronger, wiser, and with greater purpose.
