The story of Baldevkrishan Sharma is one of innovation, resilience, and an unyielding passion for discovery. Today, as Chairman and Lead Scientist of the Astrogenesis Research Foundation (ARF), he leads an ambitious mission: to explore the profound connection between humans and the Universe. But his journey began much earlier, rooted in curiosity and a drive to create.
Sharma’s scientific career gained recognition in 1974 when he received the Rashtrapati Award for his patented invention—the STD Control Device—presented by the then Industries Minister, Dr. C. Subramaniam. Even as a student, his brilliance shone when he won top prizes at science fairs for innovations like the Automatic Gas Control & Safety Device. His early collaborations with DRDO in developing the Automatic Gun Firing System for the Vijayanta Tank further established his potential as an inventive force.
In 1975, Sharma’s entrepreneurial journey took shape with the founding of Marshalls Wallpaper Co., a brand that redefined India’s interiors industry. Over time, Marshalls expanded across the country and became a trusted name in design and quality. Later, in 1985, he founded Gratex Industries Ltd. Together, these ventures exemplify his ability to transform innovation into long-term success. By 2020, he transitioned into the role of Chairman Emeritus, handing leadership to the next generation, while dedicating himself to philanthropy through the B S Marshalls Foundation.
Yet, Sharma’s deepest passion lies in cosmological research. With ARF, he advances a groundbreaking idea: that humans and the Universe share a parallel architecture and purpose. His guiding statement—“As is the Universe, So is a Human”—forms the core of ARF’s research. This concept goes beyond philosophy; it’s rooted in scientific inquiry into how natural systems operate, why species exist, and what collective purpose humanity serves in the broader framework of Nature.
Sharma’s Natural Universe Expansion (NUE) Theory challenges mainstream cosmology, particularly the reliance on dark energy to explain cosmic acceleration. Instead, NUE provides a fresh, scientifically grounded model that eliminates the need for dark energy or dark matter while offering a more coherent understanding of universal expansion. His first book, “Who Are We? & What For?” (2023), co-authored with Dr. A. P. Jayaraman, explores these bold ideas and invites scientists, cosmologists, and thinkers to rethink long-held assumptions.
Complementing his scientific work is his initiative, CiiA (Creative Ideas & Innovations in Action), which nurtures innovation among young minds through exhibitions and awards. In 2025, Marshalls will celebrate its Golden Jubilee, alongside the hosting of CiiA-4, highlighting Sharma’s dual legacy in both industry and research.
Through his pioneering inventions, entrepreneurial success, philanthropic endeavors, and transformative cosmological research, Baldevkrishan Sharma continues to inspire generations to look beyond the ordinary and seek answers to life’s biggest questions. His journey is proof that innovation, when coupled with vision, can reshape both industries and the way we understand the cosmos.