The latest episode of Shark Tank India 4 featured an emotional and impactful pitch from Varun and Babita Raheja, the mother-son duo behind Raheja Solar Processing Group . Their innovative business empowers farmers by providing durable solar dryers , which help reduce food wastage by effectively drying fruits, vegetables, and flowers using solar technology. Seeking an investment of ₹50 lakh for 1% equity, the entrepreneurs presented their vision of a sustainable agricultural solution that could transform the farming industry.
During their pitch, Varun shared a deeply personal motivation behind the venture. He revealed that studying cases of farmer suicides, particularly among those from his friends' families, inspired him to create a business that could offer financial stability to farmers while minimizing food waste. Through a detailed video montage, the Sharks were given a glimpse into the entire solar drying process and its potential impact.
While the concept impressed the Sharks, Anupam Mittal expressed concerns about its viability as a business. He remarked, “It is not a business yet. It is a passion and a movement. If you see it as a business, you will fail. You have to look at it as a business development project. You have to change your thinking.” Due to this, he chose not to make an offer. Aman Gupta also declined to invest.
However, Vineeta Singh saw potential in the venture and offered ₹50 lakh for 2% equity. Peyush Bansal matched the offer. Kunal Bahl, on the other hand, took a bolder approach, presenting two options: ₹2.5 crore for 10% or ₹1.25 crore for 5%. As the pitchers deliberated, Vineeta and Peyush teamed up to offer ₹50 lakh for 1.25%, later joining forces with Kunal for a combined offer of ₹1.75 crore for 7% equity.
After careful consideration, Varun and Babita accepted the deal, marking a significant step in their journey to revolutionize sustainable food processing for farmers across India.