Archive · 17 Nov 2025
Veeba Founder Viraj Bahl on Productivity, Mentoring, and Building a Brand
Viraj Bahl, the founder of Veeba Foods, noticed that India didn't have as many kinds of sauces and dips as other countries.
He wanted to change that and create a brand that was known worldwide but also loved in India.
To start his company, he made big choices, like selling his house to build a factory.
He believes that being a good mentor means helping others learn by asking them questions, not just giving them answers.
Bahl also thinks that working smart with focus is more important than just working long hours.
He encourages his team to have a good work-life balance, as this helps everyone be more productive and creative.
Viraj Bahl was inspired to start Veeba Foods by the limited variety of sauces and condiments available in India compared to other countries.
Bahl made significant early decisions, including selling his home to fund Veeba's manufacturing plant.
He believes mentoring involves creating opportunities for others to grow by asking effective questions rather than providing direct answers.
Bahl advocates for productivity through focus and intent for eight hours, rather than glorifying long working hours.
He emphasizes the importance of balance, family time, and disconnecting from work, stating these activities contribute to better performance.
- Who
- Viraj Bahl, Founder and Managing Director of VRB Consumer Products Pvt. Ltd. (Veeba Foods)
- What
- Shared insights on his entrepreneurial journey, including the inspiration behind Veeba Foods, his approach to mentoring, and his philosophy on productivity.
- When
- The article discusses past experiences and current views, with specific mentions of Veeba starting in 2013.
- Where
- In an interview with 'Lounge'.
- Why
- To discuss his business philosophy, leadership style, and the growth of Veeba Foods.
Focus and Intent
Long Working Hours
Productivity Approach
Focus and Intent
Productivity is achieved through focus, knowing what truly matters, and doing it well within defined hours.
Long Working Hours
Productivity is associated with working long hours, potentially leading to exhaustion.
Team Culture
Focus and Intent
A culture that values balance and intent for eight hours of work is preferred for sustainable growth.
Long Working Hours
The expectation from the team is to potentially work long hours, mirroring a founder's mind that may never switch off.
- Founder
- Viraj Bahl
- Company
- Veeba Foods (VRB Consumer Products Pvt. Ltd.)
- Founded
- 2013
- Inspiration
- Lack of variety in sauces and condiments in India compared to abroad.
- First Major Client
- Domino's
- Mentoring Philosophy
- Creating space for others' growth by asking the right questions, not giving answers.
- Productivity Principle
- Focus and balance over long working hours.