The Interview That SHOCKED India: Vijay Mallya Breaks 9-Year Silence on Raj Shamani’s Viral Podcast – Here’s Why Everyone’s Talking!

The internet is absolutely buzzing, and if you haven’t seen it yet, you’re missing the most talked-about conversation in recent memory. After almost a decade of silence, Vijay Mallya, the flamboyant former “King of Good Times,” has finally spoken out in an explosive, four-hour-long podcast with entrepreneur and content creator Raj Shamani. The episode, released just days ago, has already exploded with over 20 million views – and for good reason.
This isn’t just an interview; it’s a moment that has sent shockwaves through social media, newsrooms, and living rooms across India.

The Unthinkable Conversation: Mallya’s Side of the Story
For nine long years, Vijay Mallya has been at the center of a storm, living in the UK while facing charges of fraud and money laundering related to the collapse of Kingfisher Airlines. He’s been branded a “fugitive” and a “thief.” But in this groundbreaking conversation with Raj Shamani, Mallya opens up like never before, aiming to set the record straight from his perspective.
What’s making this podcast go so incredibly viral is Mallya’s direct challenge to the narrative that has surrounded him. He repeatedly denies being a “thief,” arguing that he never intended to defraud anyone. Instead, he paints a picture of a business failure amidst complex financial dealings and alleged misunderstandings with banks.
Key Claims That Have Everyone Talking:
- “I’m No Thief”: Mallya emphatically rejects the “chor” (thief) label. He acknowledges being called a “fugitive” for not returning to India since March 2016 but passionately questions where the “theft” actually occurred.
- More Money Recovered Than Owed? Perhaps the most astonishing claim is Mallya’s assertion that banks have already recovered approximately ₹14,000 crore against a principal loan amount of ₹6,200 crore. He cites official statements and documents to support this, claiming the debt has been “recovered multiple times over.”
- Rejected Settlement Offers: Mallya states that he made four settlement offers to the banks between 2012 and 2015, all of which were reportedly rejected. He even recounted a specific meeting with the then-SBI chairperson where his settlement proposal was turned down.
- Apology to Kingfisher Employees: In a moment that resonated deeply, Mallya expressed his “deep sorrow” for what happened to Kingfisher Airlines employees, especially those who didn’t receive their salaries. He claims he attempted to pay them from funds deposited with the Karnataka High Court, but “the banks rejected it, and the courts rejected the permission.”
- Conditions for Return: When asked if he would return to India, Mallya said he would “seriously consider” it if he could be assured of a fair trial and a “dignified existence” in India. He expressed concerns about prison conditions and the reputation of Indian investigating agencies.

Why This Podcast is Breaking the Internet
The virality of this podcast isn’t just about the shocking claims; it’s about the sheer audacity and human curiosity. For years, the public has heard one side of a very high-profile story. Raj Shamani, known for his unfiltered and direct interview style, managed to get Mallya to speak at length, providing a platform that has ignited passionate debate.
The comments sections and social media feeds are flooded with reactions. Some viewers are criticizing Mallya, accusing him of attempting to “whitewash” his image. Others are expressing sympathy, believing that hearing his perspective offers a more complete picture of the complex events. It’s a testament to the power of new media that such a controversial figure can now engage directly with millions of people.
Regardless of where you stand on the issue, this podcast has undoubtedly stirred up a hornet’s nest of questions, discussions, and a collective desire to understand the full story. Raj Shamani’s bold move has proven that in the age of podcasts, every story, no matter how controversial, can find a platform.
Have you watched the full Raj Shamani interview with Vijay Mallya? What are your thoughts on the claims made and the massive reaction it has generated?