In a recent episode of the podcast “People by WTF,” Nikhil Kamath, co-founder of Zerodha, hosted Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor for an engaging discussion. They explored various topics, including their personal experiences and perceptions of different Indian cities. Kamath, who was born in Shivamogga, Karnataka, shared his journey across various locations due to his father’s job at Canara Bank, which included stops in Hassan, Karnataka, and Karnal, Haryana, before settling in Bengaluru at age six.
Kamath expressed his deep connection with Bengaluru, noting that he has lived there for the past 30 years and considers himself a “Bangalore boy.” He emphasized his affection for the city, describing it as a place that has given him everything. Kamath also highlighted the unique character of Bengaluru, contrasting it with Mumbai. He remarked that while Mumbai is often described as a fast-paced city, Bengaluru has a distinct “soul” that sets it apart, and he invited Kapoor to experience it firsthand.
Further elaborating on his views, Kamath praised the people of Bengaluru for their warmth and love for the city, stating that these qualities make the city’s residents exceptional. He humorously compared the cultural attributes of various Indian cities, noting Hyderabad’s famous biryani, Mumbai’s reputation for having “good-looking people,” Delhi’s affluent and ostentatious residents, and Bengaluru’s distinction for its friendly and welcoming inhabitants.
Kamath’s reflections on Bengaluru and other Indian cities provide a unique perspective on urban life in India, emphasizing the importance of community and cultural identity.