

SparX by Mukesh Bansal
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

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

Sep 30, 2024 • 1h 8min
Understanding The Field and Branches of Physics with Rob Myers | SparX by Mukesh Bansal
What significant advancements have been made in physics research in India in recent years? How does the Perimeter Institute support early-career researchers and encourage innovation? What opportunities or challenges are poised for the field of theoretical physics?
Renowned theoretical physicist Rob Myers joins us to discuss his research on black holes and cosmology. He shares insights on string theory, holography, and landscape physics. We discuss the advancement of physics in India and the contribution of the Indian community to the same. We discuss physics as a career and the traits of a good researcher. Tune in to learn about the latest breakthroughs and advancements in physics research.
Resource List -
More About Rob Myers - https://perimeterinstitute.ca/people/robert-myers
Articles and Paper by Rob. Myers - https://inspirehep.net/authors/996354
For more Lectures and Videos by Perimeter Institute - http://www.youtube.com/@PIOutreach
Lecture by Rob Myers at ICTS - https://www.icts.res.in/lectures/Myers
What are Black Holes? - https://science.nasa.gov/universe/black-holes/
What is String Theory? - https://www.space.com/17594-string-theory.html
What is Quantum Physics? - https://scienceexchange.caltech.edu/topics/quantum-science-explained/quantum-physics
What is LIGO? - https://www.ligo.caltech.edu/page/what-is-ligo
What is the LIGO India Project? - https://www.ligo-india.in/

Sep 23, 2024 • 1h 13min
Decoding India's Deep Tech Revolution: Insights from Neelkanth Mishra | SparX by Mukesh Bansal
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Neelkanth Mishra, renowned economist and strategist, as we delve into the dynamic world of India's deep tech sector. In this episode, we explore the evolving deep tech ecosystem in India, discussing its growth, challenges, and opportunities.
We also examine India's Research and Development (R&D) landscape, comparing it with the US and China's deep tech sectors to identify key learnings and areas for improvement. Neelkanth Mishra shares his expertise, providing valuable insights into India's emerging deep tech landscape.
Resource List -
The No.1 Ladies Detective Agency, Book by Alexander McCall Smith - https://amzn.in/d/g03qyWt
More about India’s 3 stage Nuclear Program - https://www.jagranjosh.com/general-knowledge/indias-3-stage-nuclear-program-heres-everything-you-need-to-know-1709567184-1
Against All Odds, Book by Kris Gopalakrishnan, N Dayasindhu, and Krishnan Narayanan - https://amzn.in/d/7DP1Mmw
More about IN-SPACe - https://www.inspace.gov.in/inspace
Endless Frontier, Book by G. Pascal Zachary - https://amzn.in/d/egGVgHx
Invisible China, Book by Scott Rozelle and Natalie Hell - https://amzn.in/d/fWnTkSN
SEMICON India Website - https://www.semiconindia.org/
More about National Quantum Mission - https://dst.gov.in/national-quantum-mission-nqm
More about Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) - https://dst.gov.in/anusandhan-national-research-foundation-anrf
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

Sep 16, 2024 • 1h 11min
India's Former Chief Economic Advisor on Indian Economy's Growth Potential | SparX by Mukesh Bansal
What are some of the most important reforms or initiatives needed to achieve the vision outlined in "India@100"? How does the book address potential criticisms of its growth projections and policy recommendations?
For the latest episode of SparX, Krishnamurthy Subramanian, renowned economist and author, joins us to discuss his latest book 'India@100'. Explore the vision and strategies for India's economic growth. From ancient economic texts to modern-day reforms, Subramanian offers unique insights into India's growth potential. Tune in to discover the roadmap for India's journey to becoming a $55 trillion economy by 2047. Discover the insights and expertise that can shape India's future.
Resource List -
The Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services Ltd (IL&FS) Crisis - https://www.edu91.org/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-il-fs-fiasco#:~:text=IL&FS%2D%20You%20all%20might%20have,it%20involved%209900%20crore%20rupees.
To Know More About the Economic Survey - https://www.indiabudget.gov.in/economicsurvey/
What is a V shaped Recovery? - https://www.nextias.com/ca/current-affairs/30-12-2022/v-shaped-recovery#:~:text=In%20a%20V%2Dshaped%20recovery,the%20economic%20growth%20recovers%20sharply.
To Know More About the Global Financial Crisis - https://www.britannica.com/money/financial-crisis-of-2007-2008
To Know More About the Asian Financial Crisis - https://www.investopedia.com/terms/a/asian-financial-crisis.asp#:~:text=The%20Asian%20financial%20crisis%20started,region%20falling%E2%80%94some%20quite%20catastrophically.
What is the Golden Quadrilateral? - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golden_Quadrilateral
What is the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana? - https://omms.nic.in/
To Know More About the 1973 Oil Crisis - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1973_oil_crisis
What is a Black Swan Event? - https://www.britannica.com/topic/black-swan-event
What is Thalinomics? - https://www.indiabudget.gov.in/budget2020-21/economicsurvey/doc/vol1chapter/echap11_Vol1.pdf
What is the Rule of 72? - https://www.investopedia.com/terms/r/ruleof72.asp
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

Sep 10, 2024 • 1h 16min
Understanding the Collapse of Capitalism with Ruchir Sharma | SparX by Mukesh Bansal
What solutions does Ruchir propose for capitalism's problems? Why does government intervention won't fix capitalism? Why is the overhype with America overshadowing other emerging economies?
In the latest episode of SparX, we sit down for a conversation with economist and best-selling author Ruchir Sharma on the history, impact, and current state of capitalism. We break down the research and content from his latest book "What Went Wrong With Capitalism". We also explore Ruchir's personal life, his background, and his passion for sprinting.
Tune into today's conversation with one of the brightest minds and understand capitalism, its history in the western countries and India.
Resource List -
Ruchir Sharma Blog: https://ruchirsharma.com/
What is a bailout?: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/b/bailout.asp
More about ‘Zombie Companies’: https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/resources/commercial-lending/zombie-company/
Wall Street Journal Article: https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-rescues-ruining-capitalism-11595603720
Breakout Capital Website: https://breakout-capital.com/
What is an Oligopoly: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oligopoly
More About ‘The New Deal’: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Deal#:~:text=The%20New%20Deal%20was%20a,U.S.%20from%20the%20Great%20Depression.
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

Sep 2, 2024 • 1h 17min
A Reality Check on India's Social Infrastructures with Karthik Muralidharan | SparX by Mukesh Bansal
Why is the education sector not producing good results? How can illegal practises be reduced in healthcare? What is the main problem in India's job market?
These are some of the questions we answer in the last part of our series with Karthik Muralidharan. In the last part, we look closely at India's human development sectors identifying problems and sharing solutions that can help solve these problems. We examine the education and healthcare sector and also touch upon the job market in India and issues that exist there. Join us for an insightful episode.
Why is the education sector not producing good results? How can illegal practises be reduced in healthcare? What is the main problem in India's job market?
These are some of the questions we answer in the last part of our series with Karthik Muralidharan. In the last part, we look closely at India's human development sectors identifying problems and sharing solutions that can help solve these problems. We examine the education and healthcare sector and also touch upon the job market in India and issues that exist there. Join us for an insightful episode.
Chapters -
00:00:00 - 00:01:05 Episode Introduction
00:01:05 - 00:16:13 What is being done and how to address economic challenges and boost human development?
00:16:13 - 00:36:26 Understanding the state and reality of the education system and sector in India
00:36:26 - 00:48:55 Are improvements being made in the education sector to produce better services and outcomes?
00:48:55 - 00:59:00 What is the landscape of the healthcare sector in India; both private and public?
00:59:00 - 01:04:05 What are measures that can be taken to improve the services and resources in the healthcare sector?
01:04:05 - 01:14:30 Does India have a jobs problem and what needs to be done to solve this?
01:14:30 - 01:16:48 Concluding today’s episode
Resource List -
The influential 1975 paper written by Preston - https://www.jstor.org/stable/2173509
Learning loss during Covid - https://www.ideasforindia.in/topics/human-development/illam-thedi-kalvi-a-booster-shot-for-post-covid-education.html
The Post Office Paradox - https://www.theigc.org/sites/default/files/2015/09/Aiyar-et-al-2015-Working-paper.pdf
Does Diversity Matter for Health? - https://www.nber.org/system/files/working_papers/w24787/w24787.pdf
ASER State of Education Report - https://asercentre.org/
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

Aug 26, 2024 • 1h 22min
Breaking Down Tax Revenue and Expenditure with Karthik Muralidharan | SparX by Mukesh Bansal
How does the Central government and State governments divide tax collection? Why was ban on alcohol a bad decision by Bihar? Which government policies are really beneficial to the public?
In this episode, Karthik breaks down the complexities of revenue and expenditure, explaining how taxes are collected, allocated, and utilized to drive India's growth. From infrastructure development to social welfare programs, discover how taxes shape the nation's future. Tune in for a fascinating discussion on the economics of governance and the role of taxes in building a better India.
How does the Central government and State governments divide tax collection? Why was ban on alcohol a bad decision by Bihar? Which government policies are really beneficial to the public?
In this episode, Karthik breaks down the complexities of revenue and expenditure, explaining how taxes are collected, allocated, and utilized to drive India's growth. From infrastructure development to social welfare programs, discover how taxes shape the nation's future. Tune in for a fascinating discussion on the economics of governance and the role of taxes in building a better India.
Chapters -
00:00:00 - 00:01:11 - Episode Introduction
00:01:11 - 00:12:44 What are the different roles of the Central government and State governments?
00:12:44 - 00:25:33 How does the government navigate through debt, inflation and financial emergencies?
00:25:33 - 00:30:30 How is the country’s revenue divided between the Central government and state governments?
00:30:30 - 00:37:30 Why was Bihar’s decision to ban alcohol a bad one?
00:37:30 - 00:42:40 Which tax revenues are controlled by the Central government and which by State governments?
00:42:40 - 00:51:00 On what and how much is the expenditure by both governments?
00:51:00 - 01:11:11 What are some measures proposed by Karthik to optimise the financial operations and outcomes by the government?
01:11:11 - 01:19:37 What are the steps that need to be taken to ensure well-run governments and a better economy?
01:19:37 - 01:21:49 Concluding today’s episode
Resource List -
Accelerating India's Development: A State-Led Roadmap for Effective Governance, Book by Karthik Muralidharan - https://amzn.in/d/ig9Sw0i
Indian Finance Commision - https://fincomindia.nic.in/
NREGA Website - https://nrega.nic.in/MGNREGA_new/Nrega_home.aspx
Paper on Public Employment Programs - https://www.econometricsociety.org/publications/econometrica/2023/07/01/General-equilibrium-effects-of-improving-public-employment-programs-experimental-evidence-from-India
More about Pensions - https://seenunseen.in/episodes/2023/9/18/episode-347-indias-massive-pensions-crisis/
What is the 3-i framework? - https://www.ncchpp.ca/docs/2014_ProcPP_3iFramework_EN.pdf
CEGIS Website - https://www.cegis.org/
Union Budget by the Ministry of Finance - https://www.indiabudget.gov.in/
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

Aug 20, 2024 • 1h 16min
Economist Karthik Muralidharan On Why He Gives India a B+ Grade | SparX by Mukesh Bansal
What makes Karthik Muralidharan a leading economist? What groundbreaking insights does he bring to the field of economics? How does his latest book, Accelerating India, address India’s development challenges?
Karthik Muralidharan is a prominent economist known for his research on education and public policy. His work critically examines how policy interventions can drive economic growth and improve welfare outcomes, particularly in developing countries. His latest book, Accelerating India, provides a comprehensive analysis of how India can overcome developmental hurdles and accelerate its growth. His insights are crucial for understanding both the opportunities and obstacles in India's economic landscape.

Aug 12, 2024 • 1h 23min
The Decline of British Empire and Its Untold Stories with Matthew Parker | SparX by Mukesh Bansal
Join us for a captivating conversation with renowned British historian Matthew Parker as we delve into the rich tapestry of British history. In this episode, Parker shares fascinating stories and insights from his extensive research, bringing to life the people and events that have shaped Britain’s past.
We also explore his acclaimed book One Fine Day, a detailed account of the pivotal moment when the British Empire reached its zenith on June 2, 1947. Parker uncovers the intricate dynamics and key figures of that day, offering a vivid portrayal of the Empire's power and the forces that would soon lead to its decline.
Resource List -
Matthew Parker’s Blog - https://matthewparker.co.uk/
Mandate for Palestine - https://digitallibrary.un.org/record/829707?ln=en&v=pdf
More about the Imperial Conference - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Imperial_Conference
What was the Akali Movement? - https://amritmahotsav.nic.in/freedom-movement-detail.htm?21
Literary works by Jawaharlal Nehru - https://archive.org/search?query=Nehru&page=3
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


