
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

Jul 22, 2024 • 1h 26min
Discover Personal Growth Secrets with Sriram Kalyanaraman | SparX by Mukesh Bansal
What personal experiences shaped Sriram Kalyanaraman’s approach to transformation? How can someone new to personal transformation begin their journey? What are some great resources, tips, and practises to transform oneself to become their best self?
Awareness of our own mortality can sharpen our thoughts and desires, aligning us with our true selves. This concept, relevant from ancient Greek and Buddhist philosophies to modern thinkers like Steve Jobs, highlights the timeless nature of this insight.
In this episode, discover Sriram Kalyanaraman’s groundbreaking methods for inner peace and personal growth, and unlock your true potential through his insights and wisdom.
Resource List -
Amaidhi Website - https://www.amaidhi.com/
Dynamic Mind Practise - https://www.amaidhi.com/dynamic-mind-practice
Application for Dynamic Mind Practise - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.dynamicmindpractice.app&hl=en
Quiet Leadership, Book by David Rock - https://amzn.in/d/01pk33gO
The Inner Game of Tennis, Book by W. Timothy Gallwey - https://amzn.in/d/07C3WWEd
The Inner Game of Work, Book by W. Timothy Gallwey - https://amzn.in/d/0h2urQM2
You Can Heal Your Life, Book by Louise Hay - https://amzn.in/d/00mi62CA
The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying, Book by Sogyal Rinpoche - https://amzn.in/d/08pg43Q3
The Top 5 Regrets of Dying, Book by Bronnie Ware - https://amzn.in/d/0eywdFM6
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Book by Stephen R Covey - https://amzn.in/d/034HHZHb
The Boy, The Mole. The Fox and The Horse, Book by Charlie Mackesy - https://amzn.in/d/0bZrwDpm
Collective Intelligence Study by MIT, Carnegie Mellon University, and Union College Researchers - https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/09/100930143339.htm#:~:text=A%20new%20study%20co%2Dauthored,and%20that%20the%20tendency%20to
Buddhist Practise of Maranasati - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mara%E1%B9%87asati
The GROW Model - https://lattice.com/library/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-grow-coaching-model#:~:text=The%20name%20is%20an%20acronym,plans%20alongside%20their%20direct%20reports.
What was Google’s Project Oxygen? - https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/project-oxygen-what-can-we-learn-from-way-google-train-managers?utm_source=share&utm_medium=guest_desktop&utm_campaign=copy
About Gita Bellin - https://gitabellin.com/gita-bellin/
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
Built to Last: Book by Jim Collins: https://amzn.in/d/06UJQDXy
The HP Way, Book by David Packard: https://amzn.in/d/09M92m6N

Jul 15, 2024 • 1h 14min
India’s Leading VC Rajan Anandan on India’s AI and Tech Startup Landscape
Rajan Anandan, Managing Director of Peak XV Partners and a notable voice in India's venture capital and tech scene, discusses the dynamic AI and tech startup landscape. He stresses the need for high-quality AI innovations that solve real-world problems, rather than merely exploiting market gaps. Anandan shares insights on the importance of early-stage funding and the essential role of experienced angel investors. He paints an optimistic picture of the future for deep tech startups in India, emphasizing collaboration, mentorship, and a clear product-market fit in entrepreneurial success.

Jul 8, 2024 • 1h 4min
Writing to TELCO, Charitable Initiatives, and Life Lessons with Sudha Murty | SparX by Mukesh Bansal
Sudha Murty is a distinguished Indian author and social worker, renowned for her contributions to literature and philanthropy. She has played a pivotal role in initiatives focused on education, healthcare, and rural development, significantly improving the lives of many. Beyond her professional achievements, she is celebrated for her humility and unwavering dedication to helping the underprivileged. Sudha Murty's life and work continue to inspire countless individuals across the globe.
Join us for a wonderful conversation with Mrs.Murty to hear stories from her past that are evidence to her driven spirit and kindhearted nature. Don’t miss out on this episode!
Resources -
Sudha Murty Website: https://sudhamurty.in/
Murty Media YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Murty-Media
Article on Karnataka receiving UNESCO title: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/world-heritage-site-tag-for-3-hoysala-temples-task-force-efforts-paid-off-says-sudha-murty/articleshow/103784759.cms?from=mdr
Infosys Foundation Website: https://www.infosys.org/infosys-foundation.html
Article on Mrs.Murty’s letter to J.R.D. Tata: https://www.indiatimes.com/worth/news/what-sudha-murty-wrote-in-angry-letter-to-jrd-tata-603098.html
Gopi Diaries, Book Set by Sudha Murty: https://amzn.in/d/0fxXoKcA
Three Thousand Stitches, Book by Sudha Murty: https://amzn.in/d/06UrzGn5
Grandma’s Bag Of Stories, Book by Sudha Murty: https://amzn.in/d/0dNyuvR7
House of Cards, Book by Sudha Murty: https://amzn.in/d/03MGIqoh
Article on Sudha Murty: https://bhatiaaman19.medium.com/the-inspiring-story-of-sudha-murty-from-overcoming-stereotypes-to-empowering-the-underprivileged-423d0a58dc87

Jul 1, 2024 • 1h
Transforming the EV industry in India
What makes Ather Energy a pioneer in the Indian EV market? What factors are driving the growth of the EV market in India? How does Ather Energy contribute to the development of EV infrastructure in India?
Before Ather Energy, the Indian EV industry faced challenges such as fragmented innovation and limited consumer confidence. The founding of Ather Energy initiated a transformative shift. Their visionary leadership and pioneering electric scooters have since reshaped perceptions, fostering a new era of sustainable urban mobility. Today, their comprehensive infrastructure and commitment to excellence position them among the top 5 of the EV industry.
Tune into our latest episode for an insightful conversation on the landscape of electric vehicles in India.
Resource List -
Ather Energy - Official Website: https://www.atherenergy.com/
The Future of Electric Vehicles and Material Resources: A Foresight Brief: https://www.unep.org/ietc/resources/report/future-electric-vehicles-and-material-resources-foresight-brief
Electric Vehicle Industry in India: Investment Outlook and Market Profile: https://www.india-briefing.com/news/electric-vehicle-industry-in-india-why-foreign-investors-should-pay-attention-21872.html/
Benefits of Electric Vehicles: https://e-amrit.niti.gov.in/benefits-of-electric-vehicles
Electric vehicles - IEA: https://www.iea.org/energy-system/transport/electric-vehicles
Ather Energy: Powering the Electric Revolution in India: https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/349509
Ather Energy: The Startup That's Driving India's Electric Vehicle Revolution: https://www.forbes.com/sites/anuraghunathan/2021/06/14/ather-energy-the-startup-thats-driving-indias-electric-vehicle-revolution/?sh=5d4d1d9f1d6f

Jun 24, 2024 • 1h 9min
A Masterclass On Building A Successful Start-Up | SparX by Mukesh Bansal
Is there a real need for the product? Who is the target customer? Was there a product-market fit?
Many start-ups falter because they neglect thorough market research, resulting in a misaligned product-market fit and tepid demand. Entrepreneurs fail to understand funding, building the right rapport with co-founders, having an unclear value proposition, so on and so forth.
In this episode, we discuss the factors and reasons that lead to 90% of start-ups failing within the first five years. Additionally, we share measures and advice on how entrepreneurs can ensure the build a thriving business.
Resource List:
StartUp Failure Rate and Statistics In India: https://forgefusion.io/startup-failure-rate-and-statistics-in-india/
Start-Up Guide by Google:
https://about.google/intl/ALL_in/philosophy/?utm_source=about.google&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=copy-link
History of Uber: https://www.thestreet.com/technology/history-of-uber-15028611
History of Airbnb: https://historytimelines.co/timeline/airbnb
Article on Steve Job’s firing from Apple Inc.:https://www.thecorporategovernanceinstitute.com/insights/case-studies/why-did-apples-board-fire-steve-jobs-in-1985/
1,000 True Fans | Kevin Kelly | The Tim Ferriss Show: https://youtu.be/py43k-mSG7s?si=zYLECUSLekCsSi89
Good to Great, Book by Jim Collins: https://amzn.in/d/00BRz2W3
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
Built to Last: Book by Jim Collins: https://amzn.in/d/06UJQDXy
The HP Way, Book by David Packard: https://amzn.in/d/09M92m6N

Jun 17, 2024 • 1h 19min
The Science Behind Weight Loss, Obesity, and Diabetes with Santhosh Kumar
Why is weight loss more important now than ever before?
Weight gain and obesity are rising globally due to sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy diets, posing serious health risks like diabetes and heart disease. Weight loss is crucial to mitigate these threats and enhance overall well-being. Prioritising balanced nutrition and regular exercise is vital for a healthier future.
Join us for the latest episode of SparX with Santhosh Kumar, CTO at Cure.fit, who is a fitness and weight loss expert. In this episode, Santhosh simplifies the science behind obesity, weight gain, and weight loss and elaborates on the different factors contributing to the same.
Resource List:
What is Glucagon-like Peptide 1 (GLP 1): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6812410/
The DIETFITS Randomised Clinical Trial Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29466592/
Energy Balance Model Study by Kevin D Hall: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35134825/
The Hungry Brain book by Stephan J. Guyenet, Ph.D.: https://amzn.in/d/4YSuhmj
Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard, book by Chip Heath and Dan Heath: https://amzn.in/d/4yhHqF6
Article by Express Healthcare on Apollo’s Health of Nation Report: https://www.expresshealthcare.in/news/apollo-unveils-4th-edition-of-its-health-of-nation-report/442923/
What is intermittent fasting?: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/what-is-intermittent-fasting
GLP-1 Agonists: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-2-diabetes/expert-answers/byetta/faq-20057955

Jun 10, 2024 • 1h 12min
Stories And Insights From India's Chess Grandmaster
For the latest episode of SparX, Mukesh Bansall, Founder of Myntra and Cult.fit, is in conversation with India’s first Grandmaster, Viswanathan Anand.
Viswanathan is a five-time World Chess Champion. Anand's most significant achievements include being a five-time World Chess Champion, winning the World Rapid Chess Championship, and the World Blitz Chess Championship. Additionally, his victories in prestigious tournaments like Linares and Corus are highly notable in the chess world. Viswanathan revolutionised the chess landscape in India.
His victories brought national pride and global recognition, inspiring a surge in young players and increased investment in chess infrastructure. Anand's success fostered a vibrant chess culture, making India a formidable force in the sport. Join us for an inspiring conversation with the Grandmaster on his journey with chess, some stories with other chess players, the evolution of chess, and his experiences throughout his career.
Resource List:
About Viswanathan Anand: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Viswanathan_Anand
Viswanathan Anand FIDE Profile: https://ratings.fide.com/profile/5000017
Google DeepMind Blog Article: https://deepmind.google/discover/blog/alphazero-shedding-new-light-on-chess-shogi-and-go/
AlphaZero: https://www.chess.com/terms/alphazero-chess-engine
All India Chess Federation: https://aicf.in/
International Chess Federation: https://www.fide.com/
Chess In India: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chess_in_India
Indian Chess Players: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Indian_chess_players
About Garry Kasparov: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garry_Kasparov
About Anatoly Karpov: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anatoly_Karpov
About Vladmir Kramnik: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vladimir_Kramnik
About Mikhail Gurevich: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mikhail_Gurevich_(chess_player)
What is ZugZwang?: https://www.chess.com/article/view/what-is-zugzwang-chess-terms

Jun 3, 2024 • 54min
Exploring The Profound Impact And Power Of Books | SparX by Mukesh Bansal
For the latest episode of SparX, Mukesh Bansal (Founder of Myntra and Cure.fit) is back with a solo episode on a topic that has been requested numerous times in the past: the power of books.
In this episode, we explore various aspects of reading and writing books. We examine the influence and impact of literature on our individual lives, the landscape as a whole, and its evolution over time. Mukesh shares his journey, detailing his growing love for books and how this hobby sowed the seeds of his career and shaped him into the person he is today.
Resource List:
100 Great Lives, Book by H.D Sharma: https://rupapublications.co.in/books/100-great-lives/
A playlist of books on AI: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/activity-7168174707651887104-2DT9/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop
Britannica Encyclopaedia: https://www.britannica.com/
Article on Larry Page: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/larry-page-the-untold-story-of-an-incredible-comeback/articleshow/34527642.cms?from=mdr
Article on books banned in prison: https://time.com/6329800/prison-book-bans-censorship-essay/
What is Machiavellianism?: https://www.britannica.com/science/Machiavellianism
Pratilipi: https://www.pratilipi.com/
Jaipur Literature Festival: https://jaipurliteraturefestival.org/

May 27, 2024 • 1h 10min
Scaling a business, brand building, the start-up ecosystem, and more with Ananth Narayanan
How did Ananth drive such rapid growth in the e-commerce industry? How is Mensa Brands the future of direct-to-consumer businesses? How is Ananth redefining brand growth in the digital era at Mensa Brands?
In this episode, Mukesh Bansal, is in conversation with the CEO of Mensa Brands, Ananth Narayanan. Ananth has not only been the former CEO of Myntra and Jabong but also a Senior Partner at McKinsey and Company. He is celebrated for his pioneering contributions to the e-commerce landscape. His visionary leadership and strategic acumen have been instrumental in steering Mensa Brands towards its status as a unicorn in just six months. Join us for an insightful episode to learn from one of the entrepreneurial experts in India.
Mensa Brands Website: https://mensabrands.com/
News Article on Ananth’s career trajectory: https://www.financialexpress.com/life/lifestyle-meet-ananth-narayanan-ex-myntra-ceo-mensa-brands-founder-know-about-his-journey-education-net-worth-3095729/
News Article on Ananth’s business tips and insights: https://yourstory.com/2022/09/mensa-brands-ananth-narayanan-taking-indian-brands-global
Ananth Narayanan LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ananth-narayanan1/?originalSubdomain=in
Article by Economic Times on Mensa Brands: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/tech/newsletters/tech-top-5/mensa-turns-unicorn-in-six-months-rollup-ecommerce-explained/articleshow/87740795.cms
CNBC Interview with Ananth: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Z4GdC33dFg
Prime Venture Partners Interview with Ananth on Brand Building: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I9oHxghkA9Q
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 Monday, our host Mukesh Bansal (Founder of 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!
Fashion | Outbreak | Courtesy EpidemicSound.com

May 20, 2024 • 58min
Vivek Kumar On The Vision, Execution, And Impact Of CSE On Indian Sports
What makes CSE the benchmark for sports excellence in India? How has Vivek Kumar transformed Indian badminton training? How does CSE foster young athletes' potential?
For the latest episode of SparX, Mukesh Bansal, co-founder and CEO of Cure.fit, is in conversation with a visionary of sports training in India, Vivek Kumar.
Vivek Kumar, co-founder of the Prakash Padukone Badminton Academy and the Padukone-Dravid Centre for Sports Excellence (CSE), has significantly advanced Indian badminton by training top-tier athletes, including Olympians. His efforts through PPBA and CSE have elevated the sport's standards and inspired a new generation of players. Join us to hear more about his journey and insights.
Resource List:
CSE Website: https://centreforsports.in/
Prakash Padukone Badminton Academy(PPBA) Website: https://www.ppba.in/index.html
Gopichand Academy Website: https://gopichandacademy.com/
Vimal Kumar (Co-founder of PPBA): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/U._Vimal_Kumar
OGQ: https://ogq.org/index.php
Olympics Website: https://olympics.com/en/
Indian Olympic medal winners: https://olympics.com/en/news/india-olympics-medals
2024 Summer Olympics: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2024_Summer_Olympics
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