
SparX by Mukesh Bansal
Welcome to Sparx, the show that empowers you with the latest research, strategies and tools to help you achieve exponential impact in every aspect of your life. Whether you're looking to advance your career, improve your relationships, leave a mark on the world or simply become the best version of yourself, this is where you need to start.
Latest episodes

Dec 10, 2024 • 41min
Silicon Valley's Top VC on AI, Healthcare and India's Market | SparX by Mukesh Bansal
What makes General Catalyst a unique VC firm? How does Hemant identify companies and founders full of potential? What advice does Hemant have for companies, founders, and startups?
We are joined by CEO and managing director of General Catalyst, a prominent American venture capital firm. General Catalyst's combination of investment expertise, strong network, and collaborative culture has established the firm as a respected and influential player in the venture capital industry. And Hemant Taneja's influential work at General Catalyst has been instrumental in shaping the firm's investment strategy and cultivating a strong network of entrepreneurs and innovators.
Resource List -
General Catalyst Website - https://www.generalcatalyst.com/
General Catalyst Institute Website - https://www.generalcatalyst.com/stories/introducing-gc-institute
Read more about Livongo - https://ecorner.stanford.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2021/03/the-story-of-livongo-transcript-3.pdf
What is the Power Law? - https://thevcfactory.com/power-law-venture-capital/
What is Exit Time Horizon? - https://www.investopedia.com/terms/t/timehorizon.asp
What is a Financial Bubble? - https://www.gartner.com/en/finance/glossary/financial-bubble#:~:text=A%20financial%20bubble%20is%20an,euphoria%2C%20profit%20taking%20and%20bust.
What is Leapfrogging? - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leapfrogging#:~:text=Leapfrogging%20is%20a%20concept%20used,dominant%20firm%20to%20stay%20ahead.
Books by Hemant Taneja -
Unscaled - https://amzn.in/d/edOsD0V
UnHealthcare: A Manifesto for Health Assurance - https://amzn.in/d/91TKyVi
Intended Consequences - https://amzn.in/d/2EmhPrJ
About SparX by Mukesh Bansal
SparX is a podcast where we delve into cutting-edge scientific research, stories from impact-makers and tools for unlocking the secrets to human potential and growth.
We believe that entrepreneurship, fitness and the science of productivity is at the forefront of the India Story; the country is at the cusp of greatness and at SparX, we wish to make these tools accessible for every generation of Indians to be able to make the most of the opportunities around us.
In a new episode every Sunday, our host Mukesh Bansal (Founder Myntra and Cult.fit) will talk to guests from all walks of life and also break down everything he's learnt about the science of impact over the course of his 20-year long career.
This is the India Century, and we're enthusiastic to start this journey with you.
Follow us on Instagram: / sparxbymukeshbansal
Website: https://www.sparxbymukeshbansal.com
You can also listen to SparX on all audio platforms
Fasion | Outbreak | Courtesy EpidemicSound.com

Dec 2, 2024 • 1h 21min
Mental Health, Meditation, Mindfulness, and More with Dr. Shyam Bhat
Are you struggling to manage stress and anxiety? Are you new to the practise of meditation? Want to learn how to meditate the right way?
Join Dr. Shyam Bhat on SparX as we dive into the world of mental health and wellness. In this episode, we explore the benefits of meditation and debunk common myths surrounding this powerful practice. Discover how meditation can transform your life and improve your mental wellbeing. Don't miss this enlightening episode!
Resource List -
Videos by Dr. Shyam Bhat - https://www.youtube.com/@drshyambhat
Free will experiment by Benjamin Libet - https://www.faraday.cam.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/resources/Faraday%20Papers/Faraday%20Paper%2017%20Clarke_EN.pdf
Alan Watts - Free Will is an Illusion - https://youtu.be/OOjQScg0VeI?feature=shared
Read more on the types of meditation - https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/types-of-meditation
Who was Jiddu Krishnamurthi? - https://jkrishnamurti.org/biography
Jiddu Krishnamurthi website - https://jkrishnamurti.org/
More about Tonglen meditation - https://mindworks.org/blog/tonglen-meditation-how-to-practice/
About SparX by Mukesh Bansal
SparX is a podcast where we delve into cutting-edge scientific research, stories from impact-makers and tools for unlocking the secrets to human potential and growth.
We believe that entrepreneurship, fitness and the science of productivity is at the forefront of the India Story; the country is at the cusp of greatness and at SparX, we wish to make these tools accessible for every generation of Indians to be able to make the most of the opportunities around us.
In a new episode every Sunday, our host Mukesh Bansal (Founder Myntra and Cult.fit) will talk to guests from all walks of life and also break down everything he's learnt about the science of impact over the course of his 20-year long career.
This is the India Century, and we're enthusiastic to start this journey with you.
Follow us on Instagram: / sparxbymukeshbansal
Website: https://www.sparxbymukeshbansal.com
You can also listen to SparX on all audio platforms
Fasion | Outbreak | Courtesy EpidemicSound.com

Nov 25, 2024 • 1h 7min
Habits To Hack Your Health and Optimise Your Health Span | SparX by Mukesh Bansal
We're back with another solo episode of SparX and today we bring to you a topic that is personal to Mukesh. Today, we're talking about the simple yet powerful habits that can transform your health and wellbeing. From sleep to eating habits, we'll explore practical tips you can start using today to feel your best. Join us for a conversation that will inspire you to take control of your health.
Resource List -
Hacking Health, by Mukesh Bansal - https://amzn.in/d/g7AqZLI
The Circadian Code, by Dr. Satchin Panda - https://amzn.in/d/bBKIh7i
The Circadian Diabetes Code, by Dr. Satchin Panda - https://amzn.in/d/7cMTaif
Read about the ‘13 Hallmarks of Aging’ - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36599349/
More about Michael Pollan - https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/authors/24192/michael-pollan/
Read more about Ozempic - https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/ozempic
About SparX by Mukesh Bansal
SparX is a podcast where we delve into cutting-edge scientific research, stories from impact-makers and tools for unlocking the secrets to human potential and growth.
We believe that entrepreneurship, fitness and the science of productivity is at the forefront of the India Story; the country is at the cusp of greatness and at SparX, we wish to make these tools accessible for every generation of Indians to be able to make the most of the opportunities around us.
In a new episode every Sunday, our host Mukesh Bansal (Founder Myntra and Cult.fit) will talk to guests from all walks of life and also break down everything he's learnt about the science of impact over the course of his 20-year long career.
This is the India Century, and we're enthusiastic to start this journey with you.
Follow us on Instagram: / sparxbymukeshbansal
Website: https://www.sparxbymukeshbansal.com
You can also listen to SparX on all audio platforms
Fasion | Outbreak | Courtesy EpidemicSound.com

Nov 18, 2024 • 1h 3min
Space Tech Innovations and Space Exploration with Pawan Kumar Chandana
In a compelling conversation, Pawan Kumar Chandana, Co-founder of Skyroot Aerospace, shares insights into India's space sector advancements. He discusses the innovative use of carbon fiber in rocket construction, emphasizing in-house manufacturing for quality control. Pawan also delves into upcoming launches, the competitive landscape of space tourism, and the exciting prospects of Mars exploration. His passion for entrepreneurial support in space innovations highlights the collaborative spirit driving this transformative industry forward.

Nov 11, 2024 • 1h 2min
An Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Beginners | SparX by Mukesh Bansal
Explore the captivating evolution of artificial intelligence, from Turing machines to neural networks. Discover the journey of OpenAI and its mission for accessible AI technologies. Learn about the challenges faced by AI startups, including potential pitfalls like hallucination. Delve into the importance of national policies for local data protection. Finally, embrace the revolutionary impact AI will have on society in the future, encouraging active engagement with its rapid advancements.

Nov 4, 2024 • 1h 3min
Exploring a Career in Physics with Rajesh Gopakumar | SparX by Mukesh Bansal
In this insightful discussion, Rajesh Gopakumar, Director of the International Centre for Theoretical Sciences and a JEE AIR-1 achiever, shares his inspiring path in physics. He highlights the crucial role of mentorship and peer collaboration in shaping scientific careers. The conversation also delves into the transformative developments of string theory in the 90s and the innovative research environment at ICTS. Rajesh emphasizes the urgent need to revitalize Indian science through systemic changes and inspire future generations dedicated to fundamental research.

Oct 28, 2024 • 1h 6min
Discovering the Mysteries of the Universe with Claudia de Rham | SparX by Mukesh Bansal
Join us on this episode of SparX as we welcome renowned theoretical physicist Dr. Claudia de Rham. Claudia shares inspiring stories from her journey, plus helps us understand how gravity affects space and time, what was the big bang, and more. Don't miss this enlightening conversation!
Resource List -
The Beauty of Falling, book by Claudia de Rham - https://amzn.in/d/7sYv6Q5
Publications by Claudia de Rham - https://profiles.imperial.ac.uk/c.de-rham/publications4
Paper by Claudia de Rham on Massive Gravity - https://arxiv.org/abs/1401.4173
Publications by Claudia de Rham - https://www.researchgate.net/scientific-contributions/Claudia-de-Rham-12352738
Lecture Videos by Claudia de Rham -
https://youtu.be/iLUNgxZeqyg?feature=shared
https://youtu.be/O7MN64JlsMw?feature=shared
https://youtu.be/d1KCyxaTE6w?feature=shared
https://youtu.be/NSgSpwlgUn8?feature=shared
https://youtu.be/ThQ8P1KSFiw?feature=shared
Perimeter Institute YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@PIOutreach/featured
What are Gravitational Waves? - https://www.ligo.caltech.edu/page/what-are-gw#:~:text=Gravitational%20waves%20are%20'ripples'%20in,his%20general%20theory%20of%20relativity.
More on Gravitational Waves - https://youtu.be/DHaxfzNT1KA?feature=shared
Read on Gravitational Waves and Cosmology - https://wwwmpa.mpa-garching.mpg.de/~komatsu/lecturenotes/Azadeh_Maleknejad_on_GW.pdf
Read on the Speed of Gravity - https://arxiv.org/vc/arxiv/papers/1108/1108.3761v1.pdf
Read on Einstein’s Theory of Gravity - https://courses.lumenlearning.com/suny-osuniversityphysics/chapter/13-8-einsteins-theory-of-gravity/#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20theory%20of,are%20indistinguishable%20in%20comparable%20circumstances.
LIGO Project - https://www.ligo.caltech.edu/
LIGO-India - https://www.ligo-india.in/
NASA LISA - https://lisa.nasa.gov/
About SparX by Mukesh Bansal
SparX is a podcast where we delve into cutting-edge scientific research, stories from impact-makers and tools for unlocking the secrets to human potential and growth.
We believe that entrepreneurship, fitness and the science of productivity is at the forefront of the India Story; the country is at the cusp of greatness and at SparX, we wish to make these tools accessible for every generation of Indians to be able to make the most of the opportunities around us.
In a new episode every Sunday, our host Mukesh Bansal (Founder Myntra and Cult.fit) will talk to guests from all walks of life and also break down everything he's learnt about the science of impact over the course of his 20-year long career.
This is the India Century, and we're enthusiastic to start this journey with you.
Follow us on Instagram: / sparxbymukeshbansal
Website: https://www.sparxbymukeshbansal.com
You can also listen to SparX on all audio platforms
Fasion | Outbreak | Courtesy EpidemicSound.com

Oct 21, 2024 • 1h 13min
Stories about Gandhi's Leadership and Legacy with Ramachandra Guha | SparX by Mukesh Bansal
How did Gandhi's experiences in South Africa influence his political views? How did Gandhi's leadership impact the Indian National Congress? How were Gandhi's relationship with other significant freedom fighters and political leaders of India freedom struggle?
After returning to India in 1915, Mahatma Gandhi led the country's struggle for independence from British rule through non-violent resistance, inspiring movements for civil rights and freedom globally. In this episode, Mr. Guha takes us through his journey, both personal and professional, with stories from Gandhi's later years as a political figure. With a plethora of interesting stories, we learn more about Gandhi.
Resource list -
Ramachandra Guha’s Blog - https://ramachandraguha.in/
More about Gandhi’s speech at BHU - https://cmsadmin.amritmahotsav.nic.in/district-reopsitory-detail.htm?19509#:~:text=After%20being%20abroad%20for%2020,Indian%20people%20as%20a%20whole.
Read about Mahadev Desai - https://www.mkgandhi.org/associates/Mahadev.php
Read about The Rowlatt Satyagraha - https://cmsadmin.amritmahotsav.nic.in/district-reopsitory-detail.htm?19510#:~:text=Rowlatt%20Satyagraha%20was%20one%20of,known%20as%20the%20Rowlatt%20Act.
More about Gandhi and Jinnah’s relationship - https://www.researchgate.net/publication/356603000_Gandhi-_Jinnah_Relations_An_Overview
More about India’s Partition - https://www.history.ox.ac.uk/why-was-british-india-partitioned-in-1947-considering-the-role-of-muhammad-ali-0
Books from the episode -
A Frank Friendship: Gandhi and Bengal by Gopalkrishna Gandhi https://books.google.co.in/books/about/A_Frank_Friendship.html?id=VrkVAQAAIAAJ&redir_esc=y
The Story of my Experiments with Truth by Mahatma Gandhi - https://amzn.in/d/eXqpxVl
About SparX by Mukesh Bansal
SparX is a podcast where we delve into cutting-edge scientific research, stories from impact-makers and tools for unlocking the secrets to human potential and growth.
We believe that entrepreneurship, fitness and the science of productivity is at the forefront of the India Story; the country is at the cusp of greatness and at SparX, we wish to make these tools accessible for every generation of Indians to be able to make the most of the opportunities around us.
In a new episode every Sunday, our host Mukesh Bansal (Founder Myntra and Cult.fit) will talk to guests from all walks of life and also break down everything he's learnt about the science of impact over the course of his 20-year long career.
This is the India Century, and we're enthusiastic to start this journey with you.
Follow us on our Instagram: / sparxbymukeshbansal
Also check out our website: https://www.sparxbymukeshbansal.com
You can also listen to SparX on all audio platforms!
Fasion | Outbreak | Courtesy EpidemicSound.com

Oct 14, 2024 • 1h 9min
Exploring the Unknown Side of Gandhi with Ramachandra Guha | SparX by Mukesh Bansal
How was Gandhi's early years and education? Who were Gandhi's role models and mentors? How was his relationship with his wife and children?
For the latest episode of SparX, we are in conversation with historian, scholar and writer– Ramachandra Guha. Join us for an enriching discussion where Mr. Guha shares unheard and untold stories about Mahatma Gandhi. We delve into his life before the Indian freedom struggle, his life in South Africa, his family, and his mentors that shaped him into the freedom fighter he went on to become. Don’t miss out on this episode!
Resource List -
Books from the episode -
Gandhi Before India by Ramachandra Guha - https://amzn.in/d/aO2fM1C
Savaging the Civilised by Ramachandra Guha - https://amzn.in/d/iThbq0n
Corner of a Foreign Field by Ramachandra Guha - https://amzn.in/d/3CtR2sV
Gandhi: The Years That Changed the World by Ramachandra Guha - https://amzn.in/d/2OqmMrv
The Story of my Experiments with Truth - https://amzn.in/d/c7NHx6M
The Kingdom of God is Within You by Leo Tolstoy - https://amzn.in/d/6tBjwgX
War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy - https://amzn.in/d/5wDU4Qt
Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy - https://amzn.in/d/he5gTVH
Gandhi’s Religion: A Homespun Shawl by J T F Jorden - https://amzn.in/d/hk6ihnV
The Hero’s Journey by Joseph Campbell - https://amzn.in/d/8vVghcR
Hind Swaraj by M K Gandhi - https://amzn.in/d/gX1cRgq
Harilal Gandhi: A Life by Dalal Chandulal and Tridip Suhrud - https://amzn.in/d/g7cZnOQ
Website on M K Gandhi - https://www.mkgandhi.org/
Read more about:
Chipko Movement - https://www.britannica.com/topic/Chipko-movement
Satyagraha - https://inc.in/congress-sandesh/dandi-anniversary-march/satyagraha-1
Ramakrishna Mission - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramakrishna_Mission
Assassination of Mahatma Gandhi - https://www.historytoday.com/archive/months-past/death-mahatma-gandhi
About SparX by Mukesh Bansal
SparX is a podcast where we delve into cutting-edge scientific research, stories from impact-makers and tools for unlocking the secrets to human potential and growth.
We believe that entrepreneurship, fitness and the science of productivity is at the forefront of the India Story; the country is at the cusp of greatness and at SparX, we wish to make these tools accessible for every generation of Indians to be able to make the most of the opportunities around us.
In a new episode every Sunday, our host Mukesh Bansal (Founder Myntra and Cult.fit) will talk to guests from all walks of life and also break down everything he's learnt about the science of impact over the course of his 20-year long career.
This is the India Century, and we're enthusiastic to start this journey with you.
Follow us on Instagram: / sparxbymukeshbansal
Website: https://www.sparxbymukeshbansal.com
You can also listen to SparX on all audio platforms
Fasion | Outbreak | Courtesy EpidemicSound.com

Oct 7, 2024 • 1h 14min
Insights on India from Data and Research with Rukmini S | SparX by Mukesh Bansal
Data-driven insights are crucial to understanding a country's development across sectors, from economy and education to healthcare and infrastructure. Through rigorous research and analysis, we can uncover trends, identify challenges, and inform policy decisions.
For the latest episode of SparX, we are joined by renowned data journalist Rukmini S, whose ground breaking work, in her latest book, has been instrumental in shedding light on India's complex development narrative. Her latest book offers a compelling exploration of India's progress, highlighting the power of data storytelling. By leveraging data and research, Rukmini S's work inspires informed decision-making and fuels meaningful discourse on India's path forward.
Resource List -
Data For India Website - https://www.dataforindia.com/
Gapminder - https://www.gapminder.org/
National Family Health Survey - http://rchiips.org/
Ministry of Statistics and Program Implementation - https://www.mospi.gov.in/
United Nations Statistics Division - https://unstats.un.org/unsd/demographic/sources/surveys/default.htm
More about Household Consumption Expenditure Survey - https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2008737
NCAER - https://www.ncaer.org/
India Human Development Survey - https://ihds.umd.edu/
Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy - https://www.cmie.com/
COVID-19 Community Mobility Report by Googel - https://www.google.com/covid19/mobility/
Facebook Wealth Index - https://dataforgood.facebook.com/dfg/docs/tutorial-calculating-population-weighted-relative-wealth-index
ASER Website - https://asercentre.org/
National Achievement Survey - https://nas.gov.in/
Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI) - https://www.iipsindia.ac.in/lasi
Books from the Episode:
Whole Numbers and Half Truths - https://amzn.in/d/4tN9sjs
Factfullness - https://amzn.in/d/5Flxwc2
Planning Democracy - https://amzn.in/d/1LvqIHT
About SparX by Mukesh Bansal
SparX is a podcast where we delve into cutting-edge scientific research, stories from impact-makers and tools for unlocking the secrets to human potential and growth.
We believe that entrepreneurship, fitness and the science of productivity is at the forefront of the India Story; the country is at the cusp of greatness and at SparX, we wish to make these tools accessible for every generation of Indians to be able to make the most of the opportunities around us.
In a new episode every Sunday, our host Mukesh Bansal (Founder Myntra and Cult.fit) will talk to guests from all walks of life and also break down everything he's learnt about the science of impact over the course of his 20-year long career.
This is the India Century, and we're enthusiastic to start this journey with you.
Follow us on our Instagram: / sparxbymukeshbansal
Also check out our website: https://www.sparxbymukeshbansal.com
You can also listen to SparX on all audio platforms!
Fasion | Outbreak | Courtesy EpidemicSound.com
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