In the latest episode of Shark Tank India 5, Delhi entrepreneur Shivraj Sharma introduced a unique solution for chronic pain. His Ayurvedic product (based on a natural extract called CBD) promises long-term relief without the need for conventional painkillers.
Shivraj (founder of Wholeleaf) pitched his company to the Sharks, seeking Rs 50 lakh for 2.1% equity, valuing the startup at Rs 23.8 crore. The product uses cannabinoids from the Vijaya plant and is presented as a government-licensed, clinically validated solution that targets the root causes of pain rather than just masking symptoms.
Shark Tank India 5 Pitch On Fighting Chronic Pain Without Painkillers
In his pitch, Shivraj explained the widespread problem of chronic pain in Indian households. He said, “India ke har ghar mein ek aisa bin bulae mehmaan hai jo nikalne ka naam hi nahi leta aur uska naam hai Chronic Pain. True kabhi arthritis banke joints tod deta hai to kabhi menstrual pain banke cramp deta hai, kabhi peeth dard bankar peeth tod deta hai to kabhi headache aur migraine ke roop mein aakar aapka dimaag kharab kar deta hai. Sirf aur aise mein hum kya karte hain, ya to hum ise fight karne ki koshish karte hain, ya phir pain killers ke through ek temporary eviction notice bhej dete hain. Aur phir kuch hi time mein dard wapas aur pain killers ke side effects alag.”
He added, “Toh sharks, ab time aa gaya hai ek long-term pain solution ka. Hamara hero ingredient hai, viz plant se nikla ek natural extract jiska naam hai CBD. Globally clinically validated hai, clinically proven hai apni strong anti-inflammatory aur pain relieving properties ke liye, jo pain ko sirf naam nahi karti balki pain ke root cause par action leti hai without any risk, long term side effects ke saath.”
View this post on InstagramDON'T MISS
Shivraj shared that his personal motivation came from his aunt’s cancer treatment, where CBD helped her manage pain. He clarified that while the cannabis bud is classified as a narcotic in India, the leaves used in his product have low THC and are legally allowed for medicinal use, procured under strict government licensing.
Sharks Impressed By Evidence-Based Approach
The Sharks were intrigued by Shivraj’s clinical trials. Namita Thapar noted that 13 trials had already been conducted, with two involving 50–75 patients each, and praised the evidence-based approach. The legal and scientific clarity reassured the investors about the product’s legitimacy and safety.
After discussions, Aman Gupta, Namita Thapar and Kanika Tekriwal struck a deal, investing Rs 1.5 crore for 7.5% equity, valuing Wholeleaf at Rs 20 crore. Shivraj’s natural, painkiller-free solution has now gained both validation and funding to expand its reach.
Meanwhile, Shark Tank India 5 continues to air every Monday to Friday on Sony TV and SonyLIV.
