Dabur is one of the most popular and trusted brands of modern India. It was born in the year 1884, when Dr. S.K. Burman – an Ayurvedic practitioner in Kolkata – created medicines for various ailments that were prevalent at the time like cholera and malaria.
After a few years, he decided to launch a company which could help him mass-produce his Ayurvedic drugs and formulations, in order to help more people. This company was named ‘Dabur’ – a portmanteau of the words ‘Daktar’ (Bengali pronunciation of doctor) and ‘Burman’. Hence, Daktar Burman’s Ayurvedic company is now the famous Dabur India Ltd.
Dabur’s Commitment to Research
S.K. Burman’s son C.L. Burman was the one who set up the first research and development (R&D) unit of the company, making Dabur one of the first Indian businesses to invest systematically in research and development.
The Burmans have always been innovators in every respect, as in 1998, they became one of the first Indian business families to separate ownership from management by handing over the management of their family business to professionals.
Even earlier, in 1979, the Dabur Research Foundation (DRF) was established, which participates in activities including the discovery and development of various drugs. The primary purpose of the DRF is to spearhead the research-oriented activities of the largest Ayurvedic company in India.
The Vision of a Healthier World
The stated vision of the foundation is to become one of the leading pre-clinical research contract organizations in Asia, and perhaps even the world. DRF is also committed to accelerating the process of drug discovery and development, particularly in the numerous therapeutic areas in which its expertise lie. The organization sees this as part of its social responsibly.
In 2013, the Burman family set out to invest upwards of ₹925 crore on a private equity fund which would be dedicated to the life sciences and the healthcare segment. In 2017, the net income of the company was ₹12.77 billion and it employed more than 7,200 individuals in facilities and offices spread across India.
The Genesis of Sundesh
The Sustainable Development Society, also known as Sundesh, is a non-profit organization dedicated to the social and economic development of the country. Founded by the Burmans, it works in spheres as diverse as education, healthcare, and the economic development of marginalized communities.
Sundesh spearheads the corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives of Dabur. In 2015, Dabur was ranked 19th among India’s most trusted brands by the Brand Trust Report, making it one of the most reputed brands in the sector.
Dabur’s Iconic Products
Today, Dabur is one of the biggest FMCG brands in the nation with a gigantic product portfolio which includes, but is not limited to, hair oil, honey, candies, digestive tablets, food supplements, ayurvedic medicines, shampoos, toothpaste, mouthwash, and mosquito repellents. The company also sells moisturizing lotions, wet wipes, liquid soaps, mouthwash, face packs, and other personal care products which are much in demand.
Considering its humble origins, the extraordinary product range of Dabur is both impressive and inspiring. Most Indians grew up with the iconic Dabur products such as Hajmola, Pudin Hara, Odonil, and Vatika Hair Oil. Today, it is among the top five FMCG brands in the country. The company’s dedication to research and development have taken it to the heights of success in India and around the world.
Banner Image Credit: Dabur & slideshare
