Raj Shamani Podcast with Vijay Mallya

For the first time in nearly a decade, Vijay Mallya has spoken in detail about the controversies surrounding him. In a powerful conversation with Raj Shamani, Mallya opened up about his business journey, legal troubles, and the emotional toll of the Kingfisher Airlines collapse.

Highlights of Podcast of Raj Shamani with Vijay Mallya

Breaking His Silence

After staying quiet for nine years, Mallya finally addressed the allegations head-on. He spoke openly about the rise and fall of Kingfisher Airlines, how it impacted his business empire, and the personal struggles he’s faced since then.

“I Wanted to Settle My Debts”

Mallya shared that between 2012 and 2015, he made four different offers to repay the banks. According to him, all were rejected because lenders wanted the full ₹14,000 crore instead of partial repayment.
His words were clear: “It was always my intention to settle. Never did I say I didn’t want to pay.” He even recalled meeting the SBI Chairperson in Hyderabad—an effort that, he claims, went unanswered.

On Being Called a ‘Fugitive’

He challenged the label of being a fugitive. Mallya said his departure from India in 2016 was planned in advance and not an escape. What’s keeping him away? He says it’s the fear of an unfair trial.
“I’m accused, yes,” he explained. “But I’m not a thief (‘chor’). I didn’t run away to cheat anyone.”

His Views on Indian Business Culture

Mallya didn’t hold back his thoughts on India’s corporate ecosystem. He believes the country needs better policies that support entrepreneurs instead of punishing them for failure.
He also criticized how business collapse in India is often portrayed as criminal—and how the media played a big role in shaping public opinion against him.

Regrets and Reflections

With emotion in his voice, Mallya admitted that launching Kingfisher Airlines was a painful mistake. He reflected on the loss of his empire and questioned how the world sees him: a flamboyant showman, a failed businessman, or just someone misunderstood?

What About the Money?

Legally, Mallya is still facing serious charges—cheating, money laundering, and conspiracy among them. But he said ₹6,200 crore has already been recovered by banks, based on legal advice he received.
This directly contradicts the government’s claim of ₹14,000 crore. Critics, though, argue the actual debt—including interest and penalties—tops ₹9,000 crore and that his luxurious lifestyle doesn’t match his claims. 

How the Public Reacted

As expected, the internet had a lot to say. From viral memes to stand-up skits, Mallya’s podcast sparked both debate and humor. Comedian Shubham Gaur even joked, “Maybe it’s us who owe Mallya money!”

Who is Raj Shamani?

Born on July 29, 1997, in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, Raj Shamani’s life story is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of self-belief. From modest beginnings, he has risen to become one of India’s most influential entrepreneurs and content creators, with a net worth estimated at $11 million (around Rs 91 crore) as of 2024.

Digital Transformation and Content Creation

Raj’s digital journey began with motivational videos on Instagram and YouTube. What set him apart was his consistency, clarity, and willingness to reach out to industry leaders despite initial rejections. In 2021, he launched the podcast “Figuring Out,” which quickly became a chart-topping show, featuring conversations with high-profile figures like Vijay Mallya and Lalit Modi. His YouTube channel boasts 3.77 million subscribers, and his Instagram following exceeds 2.6 million as of July 2024.

His content—ranging from business advice to personal stories—resonates with millions, making him a leading voice in India’s digital storytelling scene.

Early Life and Challenges of Raj Shamani

Raj’s upbringing was typical of many middle-class Indian families—academic pressure, financial constraints, and high expectations. His family originally moved from Rajasthan to Indore in the 1980s, searching for work. His father sold coconuts on the streets before shifting to chemical trading and later soap manufacturing. The family business faced setbacks, especially during the 2008 recession and after his father’s health crisis in 2013, which pushed Raj to step up and support his family at a young age.

Despite struggling academically and with public speaking, Raj’s passion for storytelling and entrepreneurship shone through. In interviews, he has mentioned that he once aspired to be a rapper, influenced by the music of his youth.

Entrepreneurial Beginnings

At just 16, Raj started working alongside his father, helping to grow their FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) business, Shamani Industries. He launched his own product, Jadugar Drop, targeting local shop owners and achieving steady profit margins. His strategic efforts contributed to a remarkable 20-fold increase in the company’s revenue over a few years.

Raj’s business philosophy centered on local-first growth—building a strong foothold in regional markets before expanding nationally. He focused on serving rural and semi-rural areas, providing affordable products where larger brands often overlooked the demand. This approach helped Shamani Industries become a leading homecare brand in Central India, with a turnover reported at Rs 200 crore in FY 2020.

Global Recognition and Public Speaking

Raj’s achievements extended beyond business. In 2015, he was selected as India’s youngest representative at the United Nations Youth Representative Program for Young Leaders. This experience opened doors for him to deliver motivational talks at global organizations like Jaguar Land Rover, TCS Global, and Reliance Industries. He has also been a TEDx speaker on four occasions, inspiring audiences worldwide with his journey and insights.

Business Ventures and Income Streams

Raj’s business empire includes Shamani Industries, House of X (India’s first creator-led house of brands), and his media platform, Figuring Out. His income streams are diverse:

• Business Ventures: Shamani Industries and House of X
• Podcast Revenue: Sponsorships, digital distribution, and syndication
• YouTube Ad Revenue: Over Rs 20 lakh annually
• Influencer Deals & Brand Collaborations
• Investments: Real estate, stock markets, and early-stage startups

Legacy and Impact

Raj Shamani’s journey from a small-town boy in Indore to a nationally recognized entrepreneur and content creator is marked by perseverance, innovation, and a commitment to local roots. He has redefined success for young Indians, proving that ambition and hard work can overcome any obstacle. His story continues to inspire millions, making him a true icon of India’s new entrepreneurial spirit.

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