A young Brahmin boy named Virendra’s childhood dream of building rockets for the military. Today, that same boy, now known as Viren Sharma, is the “Dogman of India,” revolutionizing the pet care industry and touching countless lives, both human and dog. This is the story of a man who turned adversity into opportunity and found his life’s purpose in the wagging tails and wet noses of man’s best friend.
When Going gets tough, the Tough gets going
Born into a Brahmin family, Viren’s early years were marked by spiritual and academic excellence. His father, a pharmacist, and his mother, a homemaker, provided a comfortable life until Viren turned 11. Then, as if scripted by fate, financial hardship struck the family.
These challenging years, from ages 11 to 18, became what Viren calls his “greatest teacher of his life.” Faced with the stark reality of limited resources, the young Virendra sold science models, gave tuitions, and did whatever he could to contribute to the family’s income. It was during this time that he learned the joy of giving, a lesson that would shape his future and became his quintessential life’s purpose.
Paws for Thought, The Human-Dog Connection
During the family’s struggles, three dogs, Kalu, Candy, and Sheri, became Viren’s constant companions. His father’s love for dogs created an environment where Viren developed an unconditional bond with these furry friends. Little did he know that this connection would become the cornerstone of his life’s work.
Barking Up the Right Tree, The Birth of IDB
As Viren entered college, his entrepreneurial spirit began to take shape. Despite facing scepticism and rejection of his thought, he persevered in his vision to create a business cantered around dogs. With the support of his family and mentor Mr. Kamal Gandhi, Viren conceptualised his dream for International Dog Bazar (IDB) in 2000.
Starting with a modest loan of 5,000 rupees to buy pet accessories for a dog show stall, Viren’s dream quickly grew. By 2003, he was organizing dog shows, and in 2024, he organised biggest 25th silver jubilee dog show attracting over a million visitors.
The growth of a self-made empire
What began as a small, non-profit venture soon boomed into a thriving business? Today, IDB’s model has encompassed more than 300 pet shops, numerous pet cafes, pet hospitals, and even a unique “dog Airbnb.” Viren’s initiative has not only created a brand but also provided employment opportunities for countless young people.
Pawsitive Impact, Viren’s Contributions to Society
Viren’s work is far more than just a business success. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he took to the streets to rescue and feed stray dogs. He established a non-profit chain providing medical services to injured dogs and shelter for those abandoned during the crisis.
His commitment to animal welfare is further exemplified through P.A.W.S. (Protection of Animal & Welfare Society), an organization dedicated to the social upliftment of stray and underprivileged animals. Viren has been organizing marathons and annual rallies for dogs and mass concerns for over 15 years.
Awards and Accolades
1. Setting a World Record of India for the highest number of stray puppy adoptions in a day (2,000 on February 14, 2021).
2. Receiving the MyFM Jio Dilse National Award for efforts during the COVID-19 peak.
3. Winning the Award for Excellence for India’s Best Dog Show at PET IKON AWARDS-2018.
4. Being honoured with the IIPTF-2021 award in two prestigious categories of the Indian pet fraternity.
5. Receiving the National Brahmin Ratna Award from the “Sarv Brahman Mahasabha.” And many more.
The IDB Philosophy
Under Viren’s leadership, IDB has become more than a pet care brand. It’s a movement to revolutionize and set standards to quality and assurance of the pet industry in India. His efforts have helped increase dog owning families in Rajasthan from 300 to over 200,000, realizing the dream of “IDB ka ek hi sapna, har ghar mein ho dog apna” (IDB has one dream, a dog in every home).
The Guru of Growls – The Dog Expert
Viren has over 25 years of expertise and is a top dog behaviourist and pet nutritionist. He has attended over 300 dog shows across four continents, learning and adapting to the most recent developments in the dog market. His skill has drawn clientele ranging from the President of India to several state chief ministers and Bollywood stars. Viren saw the potential of the digital era and successfully developed India’s first online pet site. This e-commerce website has become India’s one of the highest-rated and most popular pet website, bolstering IDB’s position as an industry leader.
Food for thought and philosophy
Despite his business accomplishments, Viren remains spiritual. He believes he is the “chosen one” and owes his achievement to a greater power. His personal belief involves giving 100% in all he does, balancing his personal and professional lives, and believing in the power of gratitude
Viren’s approach to healing and self-improvement is equally profound. He advocates for self-talk and self-awareness, believing that ultimately, it’s up to the individual to overcome their challenges and convert them in opportunities.
Mantra for Success
As the “Dogman of India,” Viren Sharma has built a successful business empire that is open and provides shelter to these innocent animals. He has also tried to create an impact in the society by spreading a message of compassion and empathy through his work and dedication. Viren believes that to be successful in life a person has to have many other traits and values that make him a good human being before a successful one. For Viren it is essential to give and share what we take from society and learn from everywhere. Viren is a firm believer of God and feels that dogs are also part of HIS creation, which make him devote his time and energy for the cause.
Viren’s story teaches us that success isn’t just about personal gain but about making a positive impact on the world around us. Through his work with IDB and his dedicated initiatives, he continues to spread love and awareness for our four legged companions, one wagging tail at a time.
In the end, Viren Sharma’s legacy is not just about dogs; but his compassion, perseverance, and the power of following one’s passion. As he continues to innovate and expand his reach in the pet care industry, one thing remains constant, his unwavering commitment to creating a world where every home is brightened by the love of a furry friend.