In this gripping episode of FO364, Raj Shamani sits down with the controversial and flamboyant businessman Vijay Mallya, marking his first media interaction after nine long years. This podcast takes a deep dive into Mallya’s life journey — from his strict childhood upbringing to the empire-building of Kingfisher Airlines, the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), and the glamorous Kingfisher Calendar. Mallya also shares his side of the story regarding the loans controversy, his love for fast cars, and what he plans to do next.
Podcast Highlights & Key Timestamps
⏰ 00:00 – Intro
Raj Shamani introduces the episode, highlighting the significance of Vijay Mallya’s appearance — his first public interview in nearly a decade.
⏰ 05:20 – First Media Interaction After 9 Years
Vijay Mallya opens up about why he chose this moment to break his silence and share his perspective with the world.
⏰ 12:16 – Childhood & Strict Upbringing
Mallya reflects on his early life in Kolkata, his strict father Vittal Mallya, and how his upbringing shaped his approach to life and business.
⏰ 29:50 – Building Alcohol Brands
He dives into how he built a legacy of popular alcohol brands like Kingfisher Beer and McDowell’s No.1, blending tradition with innovation.
⏰ 37:16 – Father’s Style vs My Style of Doing Business
Mallya compares his father’s conservative business strategies with his own more flamboyant, risk-taking style.
⏰ 42:01 – The Flamboyant Vijay Mallya
The conversation turns to the public image of Vijay Mallya — from the flashy lifestyle to the “King of Good Times” moniker.
⏰ 51:48 – Building Kingfisher Airlines: King of Good Times
The episode covers the ambitious launch of Kingfisher Airlines, Mallya’s vision for luxury aviation, and how he created a brand that captivated millions.
⏰ 58:27 – Acquiring Berger Paints
A lesser-known but significant business move: how Mallya acquired Berger Paints and expanded his empire.
⏰ 01:03:36 – Relationship with My Mother
Mallya shares personal memories and insights about his close relationship with his mother.
⏰ 01:07:20 – Rise & Fall of Kingfisher Airlines
One of the most detailed parts of the episode: Mallya narrates the meteoric rise and abrupt collapse of Kingfisher Airlines, from operational hurdles to financial challenges.
⏰ 01:35:00 – Founding Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
He talks about buying the IPL franchise RCB, the excitement of building a cricket team, and how it shaped the sports landscape in India.
⏰ 01:45:10 – Formula 1 Journey
Mallya recounts his Force India Formula 1 team journey and how he brought F1 racing to the Indian audience.
⏰ 01:49:02 – The Iconic Kingfisher Calendar
He reveals the story behind the glamorous Kingfisher Calendar, which became a symbol of luxury and aspiration.
⏰ 01:51:12 – My Love for Cars
Mallya shares his passion for luxury and vintage cars, showcasing a different side of his personality.
⏰ 01:54:36 – Most Expensive Things I Bought
From private jets to yachts — Mallya discusses the extravagant purchases that defined his lifestyle.
⏰ 01:59:31 – Turmoil at Kingfisher Airlines
A deep look at the financial and operational challenges that led to Kingfisher’s downfall, including unpaid salaries and mounting debts.
⏰ 02:16:12 – Traditional Media Backlash & Public Reactions
He reflects on how media coverage shaped his public image, often painting him as a “fugitive tycoon.”
⏰ 02:30:08 – Message to Kingfisher Employees
Mallya sends a heartfelt message to the former employees of Kingfisher Airlines, acknowledging their loyalty and the difficult times they faced.
⏰ 02:38:09 – Misrepresentation & Leaving the Country
He addresses the controversies around his departure from India, clarifying what he sees as media misrepresentation and legal complexities.
⏰ 03:01:48 – Biggest Challenge of Doing Business in India
Mallya discusses the systemic challenges and bureaucratic hurdles that entrepreneurs face in India.
⏰ 03:16:02 – What I’m Doing Now
He shares updates on his current pursuits, ongoing legal battles, and new opportunities he’s exploring.
⏰ 03:30:10 – Here’s My Justification: Check the Proofs
Mallya promises to share evidence that supports his claims of innocence, inviting viewers to look at the facts themselves.
⏰ 03:46:56 – I Want to Come Back to India If…
Mallya expresses his desire to return to India if he’s guaranteed a fair trial and a chance to clear his name.
⏰ 04:16:47 – Documents
He mentions the key documents and evidence that he believes vindicate him in the ongoing legal and financial controversies.
⏰ 04:18:23 – Outro
Raj Shamani wraps up this revealing conversation, thanking Mallya for sharing his side of the story in such detail.
Key Themes & Takeaways
✅ A Journey of Highs and Lows: Vijay Mallya’s story is a roller-coaster of ambition, luxury, and downfall. From owning an airline to living in exile, his life shows the power and peril of aggressive expansion.
✅ Media’s Role in Shaping Perception: The podcast brings out how the media played a critical role in amplifying Mallya’s image — both his larger-than-life persona and the controversies that followed.
✅ The “King of Good Times” Persona: Mallya doesn’t shy away from admitting his flamboyant ways, but he also tries to explain how that public image overshadowed many of his business successes and failures.
✅ Empathy for Employees & Legacy: Despite the controversies, Mallya conveys a sense of regret and empathy for Kingfisher Airlines employees, acknowledging their sacrifices during the airline’s collapse.
✅ A Call for Fairness: Throughout the episode, Mallya insists that he wants to return to India — but only if he can be sure of fair treatment in the courts and media.
Why Watch This Podcast Episode?
If you’re curious about India’s most flamboyant tycoon and the real story behind the headlines, this episode is a must-watch.
It’s a rare chance to hear Vijay Mallya’s perspective, unfiltered and in his own words.
Raj Shamani’s engaging questions and Mallya’s candid responses make for a truly captivating and insightful conversation.
Final Thoughts
This FO364 episode with Vijay Mallya is more than just a podcast — it’s a rare window into the life of a businessman who defined an era of Indian luxury and ambition. Whether you see him as a misunderstood visionary or a cautionary tale, there’s no denying that his story continues to fascinate and provoke debate.
Watch the full podcast to see Vijay Mallya in his own words — only on Raj Shamani’s channel!
