From school dropout to billionaire podcaster sitting across from Prime Minister Modi, Nikhil Kamath now commands enviable reach and influence. How did he do it and what does it say about the India we live in today? Senior journalist Indulekha Aravind speaks with Pooja Prasanna about her long-form profile for Newslaundry and The News Minute.

They discuss Kamath’s rise from school dropout to Zerodha co-founder to influential podcaster, and the networks, narratives, and ambitions shaping his public image.

Festivals remind us that light wins over darkness, truth over deceit, and hope over fear. This Deepavali, Newslaundry and The News Minute are adding one more reason to celebrate: the spirit of independent journalism. Avail our limited festive offer here.