What Happened With Vijay Mallya​

Vijay Mallya Breaks Silence: Key Revelations from the Raj Shamani Podcast

After nearly a decade of silence, Vijay Mallya, the embattled former chairman of Kingfisher Airlines and United Breweries, has opened up in a candid four-hour conversation on Raj Shamani’s podcast, Figuring Out. In this rare appearance, Mallya addressed pressing questions that have lingered in the minds of many Indians. From the collapse of Kingfisher Airlines to his legal battles and prospects of returning to India, here are the main takeaways.

What Happened With Vijay Mallya​ and What Lies Ahead

1. Apology for Kingfisher Airlines’ Collapse

Mallya began by expressing deep remorse over the failure of Kingfisher Airlines. He stated, “I apologise to everyone for the failure of Kingfisher Airlines,” acknowledging the impact on employees and stakeholders. He attributed the airline’s downfall to the 2008 global financial crisis and regulatory challenges in India. Despite efforts to sustain operations, including seeking government support, the airline ceased operations in 2012.

2. Denial of Wrongdoing

Addressing allegations of financial misconduct, Mallya firmly denied being a thief. He questioned the basis of the accusations, asking, “Where is the chori?” He emphasized that while he left India in 2016, it was not an act of fleeing but a pre-scheduled departure. He acknowledged being labeled a fugitive but contested the narrative of criminal intent.

3. Willingness to Return to India

Mallya expressed a willingness to return to India, provided he is assured a fair trial and dignified treatment. He highlighted concerns over India’s detention conditions, referencing judgments by UK courts that found them in violation of human rights. He stated, “If I am assured, absolutely, I will think about it seriously.”

4. Claims of Loan Repayment

Challenging the narrative of defaulting on loans, Mallya claimed that banks have recovered ₹14,100 crore from him, against an alleged debt of ₹6,203 crore. He questioned why, despite this recovery, he continues to be pursued legally. This claim has sparked debates on the transparency and fairness of the recovery process.

5. Critique of India’s Business Environment

Mallya criticized the Indian business environment, calling the “ease of doing business” a myth. He described the system as heavily bureaucratic and politically influenced, stating that he had to maintain favorable relations with multiple state leaders to keep his business running. He argued that such systemic issues contributed to the challenges faced by Kingfisher Airlines.

6. Apology to Kingfisher Employees

Addressing the issue of unpaid salaries, Mallya offered a public apology to former Kingfisher Airlines employees. He claimed that funds were available to pay the dues but were inaccessible due to legal constraints and objections from banks. He emphasized that he had applied to the court to release funds for salaries, but the request was denied.

7. Legal Battles and Extradition Efforts

Mallya continues to face legal challenges, including extradition proceedings initiated by the Indian government. In 2020, his appeal against extradition was rejected by the UK Supreme Court. However, as of April 2025, the extradition order remains unenforced, with Mallya resisting on other legal grounds.

8. Public Reaction and Ongoing Debates

Mallya’s podcast appearance has elicited mixed reactions. While some view his statements as an attempt to clear his name, others remain skeptical of his intentions. The timing of his public engagement, coinciding with Royal Challengers Bangalore’s IPL victory—a team he once owned—has also drawn attention.

Vijay Mallya’s revelations on the Raj Shamani podcast offer a rare glimpse into his perspective on the controversies that have surrounded him for years. While he expresses remorse and a desire to return to India under certain conditions, the legal and public scrutiny continues. As debates around his case persist, his statements add new dimensions to the ongoing discourse on corporate accountability and the complexities of India’s financial and legal systems.

For a deeper understanding of Vijay Mallya’s journey and the intricacies of the case, you may consider exploring the following resources: Find the story of Vijay mallya below

The Vijay Mallya Story

Bad Money: Inside the NPA Mess and How It Threatens the Indian Banking System

These books provide comprehensive insights into the factors leading to the rise and fall of Vijay Mallya and the broader implications for India’s economic landscape.

Image and Video credit: Raj Shamani