Viraj Datt: Stepping into the World of Sneaker Reselling and Redefining Entrepreneurship

In a world where fashion and finance intersect, Viraj Datt has carved a unique path by turning his passion for sneakers into a thriving business venture. The 22-year-old entrepreneur from Chandigarh, India, has successfully tapped into the booming sneaker market, catering to a growing community of enthusiasts and celebrities alike. Through his brand VJ Kicks, Viraj is not only reshaping the way people perceive sneakers but also redefining the possibilities of entrepreneurship.

A Humble Beginning and a Bold Idea

Viraj’s journey into the world of sneaker reselling began with a simple desire – to own a pair of stylish sneakers that he admired. Born and raised in Panchkula, Haryana, Viraj’s fascination with sneakers was ignited when he stumbled upon a pair with a price tag beyond his reach. Intrigued by their design and allure, he embarked on a journey of exploration and discovery.

As he delved deeper into the world of sneakers, Viraj recognized a unique opportunity. Brands like Adidas and Supreme were collaborating with international celebrities to release limited-edition sneakers that fetched astounding mark-ups, sometimes reaching 20-30 times their original value within just a few years. With the sneaker market’s impressive growth trajectory, Viraj saw a chance to merge his passion with entrepreneurship.

From Sport to Style: Transitioning to Entrepreneurship

Viraj’s journey took a significant turn when he decided to transition from being a badminton player to a full-time entrepreneur. While pursuing a degree in Bengaluru, he immersed himself in researching and understanding the sneaker culture. Viraj’s passion for sneakers led him to establish VJ Kicks, an Instagram page where he began showcasing his personal collection and sharing insights about rare sneakers in India.

His journey gained momentum when he realized that he could turn his passion into a business. Viraj started sourcing limited-edition sneakers from across the globe and reselling them in India. With a modest investment of around Rs 30,000 borrowed from his father, he embarked on a journey that would transform his life.

Entrepreneurial Vision and Social Media Success:

Viraj’s entrepreneurial journey was fueled by his father’s guidance and his own determination. He leveraged the power of social media, especially Instagram and YouTube, to showcase VJ Kicks and connect with a wider audience. Collaborating with friends who were social media influencers, Viraj managed to garner attention and orders from celebrities, including actor Parineeti Chopra, rappers Divine and Raftaar, and singers RitViz and Ananya Birla.

Through dedication and innovation, Viraj built VJ Kicks into a platform known for sourcing unique and rare sneakers. With no pre-decided profit margin, he focused on offering limited edition sneakers at higher prices, catering to a niche market of discerning sneaker enthusiasts.

A Star-Studded Journey and Future Aspirations:

Viraj’s brand, VJ Kicks, has not only captured the attention of celebrities but also achieved impressive growth. Over the years, he has shared over 500 pairs of sneakers and witnessed a remarkable 100 percent year-on-year growth in revenues between 2017 and 2019. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic in 2020, Viraj managed to sell 100 pairs of sneakers, showcasing his resilience and adaptability.

Looking ahead, Viraj’s entrepreneurial spirit remains unwavering. He envisions building a dedicated website for VJ Kicks to streamline the sneaker buying and selling process, making it even more accessible for his customers. As he continues to explore the potential of the sneaker industry, Viraj believes that spreading awareness and knowledge about sneakers through online platforms will further fuel its growth.

Viraj Datt’s journey from a badminton player with a passion for sneakers to a successful entrepreneur is a testament to his vision, determination, and adaptability. By capitalizing on his love for sneakers and combining it with astute business acumen, Viraj has not only transformed his own life but also left an indelible mark on the world of fashion and entrepreneurship. As he continues to make strides in the sneaker reselling industry, Viraj Datt exemplifies the power of following one’s passion and turning it into a successful business venture.