In this powerful episode, Colonel Shivender Pratap Singh Kanwar, a decorated former Indian Army Special Forces officer, returns for another inspiring conversation with IRS Ravi Kapoor.
Having commanded elite units in the toughest terrains of Jammu & Kashmir, Colonel Kanwar now channels his battlefield experiences into shaping leaders — instilling courage, clarity, and discipline in every aspect of life.
Together, they explore:
• How to transform your mindset and take control of your life
• How to know if a goal is truly worth pursuing
• How to train your mind for complete self-transformation
• How to build discipline that lasts
• Fearless vs fearful — what truly sets them apart
• The real challenges behind achieving entrepreneurial success
Tune in for a masterclass on mindset, leadership, and the psychology of winning — both on and off the battlefield.
Would you like me to make it shorter and more punchy (for Spotify’s mobile view), or keep it long-form and descriptive like this version?
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In this thought-provoking episode, ex-Army officer and leadership expert Capt. Raghu Raman joins IRS Ravi Kapoor to decode what every young person in their 20s must understand about risk, purpose, and success.
Capt. Raghu Raman — former Indian Army officer, corporate leader at the Mahindra Group, and founding CEO of NATGRID — brings rare wisdom from the Army, corporate, and government worlds. He is also the bestselling author of Everyman’s War.
What you’ll learn:
• The brutal truths every man in his 20s must hear
• How, when & where to take risks wisely
• Mistakes youngsters make — and how to avoid them
• A clear success framework for today’s youth
Take the Free Big 5 Personality Test: syllabusoflife.com/big-five-test
About Ravi Kapoor:
Ex-IRS officer, competitive powerlifter, TEDx speaker, mentor, and author with an MA in Clinical Psychology — now helping the next generation of civil servants and professionals master the Syllabus of Life.
Follow Ravi Kapoor:
Instagram – @ravikapoorirs
LinkedIn – Ravi Kapoor IRS
Timestamps:
(0:00) – Trailer
(0:51) – Introduction
(3:13) – Brutal Truth Every Man in His 20s Must Hear
(7:47) – How, When and Where to Take Risks in Your 20s
(15:33) – Mistakes Youngsters Make in Their 20s
(19:55) – Important Success Framework for Youth
(49:40) – Rapid Fire Q&A Round
(1:10:26) – Book Recommendations for Every 20-Year-Old
In this episode, bestselling author Chetan Bhagat joins Ravi Kapoor (IRS, Retd.) for a candid conversation on love, relationships, and contemporary India.
🎙 Topics include:
Why Chetan’s characters connect with Indian readers
Love vs. lust explained simply
How to know if someone is “marriage material”
Arranged marriages, rising divorces & changing family dynamics
Career advice for young Indians (20–25)
The 11 Rules for Life
Cricket, Gurgaon, stand-up comedians & more
Chetan Bhagat—author of Five Point Someone, 2 States, Half Girlfriend, and now 12 Years: My Messed-Up Love Story—shares stories and insights that resonate with millions.
(00:00) – Trailer(02:12) – Why Chetan Bhagat’s characters feel so relatable(04:06) – What does Young India want?(08:35) – The difference between love and lust(11:09) – How to identify if someone is “marriage material”(13:07) – Arranged marriages in India and rising divorce rates(19:14) – Career advice for youngsters aged 20–25(26:24) – Are joint families still feasible today?(31:06) – Key signs to look for in a potential life partner(32:46) – 11 Rules for Life(43:29) – The cost of India’s obsession with cricket(52:04) – Why is Gurgaon struggling?(56:21) – Stand-up comedians and controversies(58:40) – Rapid Fire Round
In this episode of The Syllabus of Life, host Shantanu Gupta — acclaimed author, political analyst, and founder of The Ramayana School and The Yuva Foundation — sits down with IRS officer Ravi Kapoor for a thought-provoking conversation.
Shantanu, known for his bestselling works like The Monk Who Became Chief Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party: Past, Present, and Future, dives deep into topics that shape India’s political and social landscape. Together, they discuss:
Why the Censor Board imposed restrictions on the film Ajey
Yogi Adityanath’s mission to make Uttar Pradesh crime-free
His bold stance against the mafia and police encounters
The truth about pending cases against Yogi Adityanath
How love and relationships are perceived in the Modi–Yogi era
And the big question: Could Yogi Adityanath be India’s next Prime Minister?
Tune in for an engaging dialogue that blends politics, governance, and cultural shifts — offering insights you won’t hear anywhere else.
Join the 21-Day Identity Shift ChallengeLink: https://www.syllabusoflife.com/21-day-challenge?utm_source=Youtube&utm_medium=Ravi_kapoor&utm_campaign=description----------------------------Books Mentioned:#Modi vs Khan Market Gang : https://amzn.to/4nKCjdvNarendra Modi Censored : https://amzn.to/47MdUzmTop Books Recommendations by Ravi Kapoor: https://youtube.com/shopcollection/SCUCX-9hv9ZFOEIPtnv023pJ2o_CxHUsOdsjw?si=GgTStSqoPFUyyJaq----------------------------In this episode of "The Syllabus of Life", we have Ashok Shrivastava in conversation with IRS Ravi Kapoor.Ashok Shrivastava is a senior Indian journalist and news anchor, known for his work as Editor and Anchor at #DDNews, where he leads programs like “Do Took”. He holds a significant presence on social media and is also an author of books such as “Narendra Modi Censored” and “Modi Versus Khan Market Gang”.In this episode, Ashok Shrivastava and IRS Ravi Kapoor discuss:• Dangerous False Narratives in India and How Propaganda Shapes Public Opinion• Myths, Reality, and Hidden Power of Deep State in India?• The Truth About Anti-India Agendas• Is Vote Chori in India a Fake Narrative or Real Election Threat?• Can Indian Citizens Trust the Media?---------------My gear for shooting this video:Sony-ILCE-7M3-Full Frame Mirrorless Camera:https://amzn.to/4l4KVLfCanon EF50MM F/1.8 STM Lens:https://amzn.to/4c8UswOLogitech Tripod:https://amzn.to/3XFtffgZoom H1 All Black (2024 Version):https://amzn.to/429Gypv Shure SM7B Cardioid Vocal Dynamic Microphone:https://amzn.to/3RsSLAJGODOX SL150II 150W LED Video Light:https://amzn.to/4hUP2H1Rode Collar Mic:https://amzn.to/3E1UfyO---------------For more podcasts like this one, subscribe to our channel. We regularly feature new episodes filled with valuable discussions and insights.About Ravi Kapoor: Ravi Kapoor is an ex-IRS officer, competitive powerlifter, chief mentor, TEDx speaker, and author. Additionally, Ravi holds an MA in clinical psychology and has chosen to focus on mentoring the next generation of civil servants.To know more:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ravikapoorirs?igsh=MXEzaTJlM2ZibDR2cg==LinkedIn: https://in.linkedin.com/in/ravi-kapoor-001bb1132---------------(0:00) – Trailer(0:45) – Introduction(2:22) – Dangerous False Narratives in India(5:53) – Modi vs Khan Market Gang(7:50) – The Truth About Anti-India Agendas(12:05) – Democracy vs Conspiracy(18:45) – Are Vote Chori Allegations Fake?(28:07) – Can Indian Citizens Trust the Media?(41:43) – Kidnapping Incident(52:00) – Rapid Fire Round
In this episode, host IRS Ravi Kapoor speaks with Dr. Vijender Singh Chauhan (Vijender Masijeevi) — Associate Professor at Delhi University, noted Hindi literature scholar, motivational speaker, and media analyst.
Widely admired for his mock interviews with UPSC aspirants, Dr. Chauhan blends practical guidance on personality development, communication, and career growth with deep literary and social insights. His work continues to inspire students, professionals, and audiences across India.
In this conversation, they explore:
Who are the best-fit aspirants for UPSC?
Why is there so much craze around Civil Services in India?
Is UPSC really the toughest exam?
Does UPSC fill the gap in India’s education system?
How to overcome distractions during UPSC preparation
How much time and how many books do you really need to clear UPSC?
Tune in for a thought-provoking dialogue that goes beyond exam prep to explore the real meaning of education, discipline, and ambition in India.
(0:00) -Trailer
(0:59) -Introduction
(2:54) -Who Are the Best-Fit Aspirants for UPSC?
(4:28) -Big 5 Personality Test
(10:49) -Why Is There So Much Craze Around Civil Services in India?
(16:54) -Is UPSC Really India’s Toughest Exam?
(20:41) - Does UPSC Fill the Gap in India’s Education System?
(27:37) - How to Overcome Distractions During UPSC Preparation
(35:00) - How Much Time & How Many Books Do You Actually Need to Clear UPSC?
(43:26) - Is rote learning necessary in UPSC preparation?
(47:20) - 20 Seconds Rule of Habits
(52:44) - Message for Aspirants Giving Multiple UPSC Attempts
In this episode, host IRS Ravi Kapoor sits down with Abhijit Chavda — a renowned geopolitical analyst, podcaster, writer, and scientist. Known for breaking down complex global issues into simple, engaging conversations, Abhijit brings his unique perspective on geopolitics, world history, and science to listeners in India and around the world.
Together, they dive deep into pressing questions around Nepal and South Asia:
What’s really happening in Nepal — and why?
The alleged US “Colour Revolution” in Nepal
Could the India–Nepal border face a shutdown?
The future of India–China relations
Is social media the hidden trigger behind Nepal’s crisis?
Should India invest in Nepal — and will Nepal allow it?
Tune in for an eye-opening discussion that connects the dots between geopolitics, strategy, and the shifting balance of power in the region.
In this episode, IRS Ravi Kapoor is joined by O.P. Singh, a decorated former IPS officer who has served as the DGP of Uttar Pradesh Police, Director General of the NDRF, and CISF. A recipient of the President’s Police Medal, he pioneered the police Commissionerate system in UP and led critical rescue operations during the 2015 Nepal earthquake. Today, he heads the Indian Police Foundation, driving the agenda of police reforms.
Together, they dive into:
How crime has shaped Uttar Pradesh
Transformation of UP under Yogi Adityanath’s leadership
The controversial debate around police encounters
How criminals are categorized and rated in the state
Traits that define a “highly effective” criminal
Why some communities are more vulnerable to crime
The rise of criminals-turned-politicians, including Atiq Ahmed
A rare insider’s perspective on law, order, and reform in India’s largest state.
In this episode, Mr. Ashok Lavasa, retired IAS officer and former Election Commissioner of India, joins IRS Ravi Kapoor for an insightful discussion on the Election Commission of India’s role and its impact on free and fair elections.
Topics Covered:
Role and independence of the Election Commission
The neutrality of the Election Commission
Appointment of Election Commissioners in India
Efficiency of Bihar's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in elections
Can political parties influence election results?
How to fix flaws in India's electoral system
Must-Listen for anyone interested in Indian governance and elections.
About Ashok Lavasa:
Ashok Lavasa, former Union Secretary in Civil Aviation, Environment, and Finance, shares his experience in high-profile cases and his principled dissent in election-related matters.
Books by Ashok Lavasa:
An Ordinary Life
Echoes of Faith
An Uncivil Servant
Follow Ravi Kapoor
Instagram: @ravikapoorirs
LinkedIn: Ravi Kapoor
Timestamps:
0:00 - Introduction4:00 - Is the Election Commission truly neutral?20:12 - Election Commission vs Government powers28:30 - Bihar’s SIR Efficiency49:40 - Can political parties influence results?1:03:46 - How to fix a corrupt system
Welcome back to another episode of The Syllabus of Life. I’m your host, IRS Ravi Kapoor, and today we’re joined by a distinguished military leader — Lt. Gen. Devendra Pratap Pandey (Retd).
General Pandey is one of the most respected officers of the Indian Army. Commissioned in 1985, he went on to command the XV Corps, also known as the Chinar Corps, in Srinagar — at the heart of India’s counter-insurgency efforts. Over the course of his career, he served in some of the most critical operational areas — Kashmir, Siachen, and Ladakh — and was honored with the PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, and VSM for his distinguished service to the nation.
In this episode, General Pandey and I discuss some of the most pressing issues in national security and geopolitics today, including:
The threats made by Asim Munir to Ambani’s Jamnagar Refinery,
How military and strategic intelligence is really collected,
Whether there is ever an end to terror and security threats,
The inner workings of the American deep state,
China’s evolving cyber warfare strategy,
In this episode of The Syllabus of Life, I sit down with Lt Gen Sanjay Kulkarni, a distinguished soldier and leader from the 4 Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army.
General Kulkarni is best known for leading the historic capture of Bilafond La during Operation Meghdoot in 1984, a defining moment in India’s defence history. Over his career, he has been awarded multiple gallantry and service medals for his remarkable service to the nation.
In this conversation, we dive into:
The background and significance of Operation Meghdoot
How the Siachen Glacier mission was planned and executed
Untold war stories from the world’s highest battlefield
Life in extreme conditions on Siachen
The emotional toll of losing fellow soldiers
And the unbreakable camaraderie that binds the Indian Army together
For more episodes like this, subscribe to our channel. Each conversation is designed to inspire, challenge, and give you clarity for your own journey.
In this episode of "The Syllabus of Life", we have Dr. Amit Gupta in conversation with IRS Ravi Kapoor.Dr. Amit Gupta is one of India’s most trusted plastic surgeons and the founder and director of Divine Cosmetic Surgery. With over 23 years of experience, Dr. Gupta has helped transform lives and redefine beauty standards in India and beyond.Dr. Amit Gupta is known for his expertise in advanced techniques like VASER body contouring, hair transplants, and breast surgeries.In this episode, Dr. Amit Gupta and IRS Ravi Kapoor discuss:• Why Do People Get Plastic Surgery? Its Purpose, Effectiveness and Side Effects• Why Do Celebrities Undergo Multiple Plastic Surgeries?• Men’s Facial Features That Enhance Masculinity• Are Symmetrical Faces Considered More Attractive?• How Facelifts, Breast Implants and Six-Pack Abs Are Achieved with Plastic Surgery• Why Some People Go Overboard with Botox and Fillers• Psychological Impact of Gynecomastia and Surgical Treatments• Hourglass Figure, B-Waist, Tummy Tucks and Mommy Makeovers• How Gender Reassignment Surgery Is Performed• Can Hair Transplant Surgery Be Fatal?• GST and Tax Applications in Plastic Surgery Procedures
Welcome to another episode of The Syllabus of Life. I’m your host, IRS Ravi Kapoor, and today’s conversation takes us to the heart of Northeast India.
Our guest is none other than Pradyot Manikya Deb Barma — the titular King of Tripura, popularly known as Bubagra. He’s the founder of TIPRA Motha, a party that has been at the forefront of championing Indigenous rights. Beyond politics, Pradyot is also a philanthropist, activist, and media entrepreneur, deeply committed to preserving the Tiprasa identity and voicing the concerns of Northeast India.
In this episode, we unpack some powerful and thought-provoking questions with Pradyot:
What is really happening in Northeast India right now?
Why is the demand for Greater Tipraland gaining momentum?
Should wealth in India be redistributed between the rich and the poor?
How political greed continues to erode the spirit of public service.
The stereotypes and discrimination faced by North-East Indians in metro cities.
The fundamental rights that the people of the Northeast are still fighting for.
And the big question — will AFSPA ever be repealed?
Welcome back to another episode of The Syllabus of Life. I’m your host, IRS Ravi Kapoor, and today, we have a truly remarkable guest — Major Samar Pal Singh Toor.
Major Toor is a decorated officer of the Indian Army, commissioned into the prestigious 8 Rajputana Rifles. Over the years, he has served in some of the toughest terrains and missions — from the icy heights of Siachen, the world’s highest and coldest battlefield, to counter-terrorism operations in Kashmir, and even leading troops in a United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in South Sudan.
In this conversation, Major Toor and I explore some fascinating, and at times unsettling, aspects of modern warfare and geopolitics. We dive into:
the CIA’s involvement in Operation Sindoor,
China’s rapid military advancements and what they mean for India,
possible scenarios if India and China were to clash,
the future of warfare with laser weapons from space,
the top five cutting-edge defence technologies shaping the battlefield,
South Korea’s innovative use of fuel cells in defence,
and a deep look into Operation Blue Ghost.
This is a gripping discussion that connects history, technology, and strategy — and it will leave you with a deeper understanding of where global security might be headed.
🎙️ Transition Music
Host (Ravi Kapoor):
So, let’s dive right in. Here’s my conversation with Major Samar Pal Singh Toor.
The Syllabus of Life — In this episode, IRS Ravi Kapoor is in conversation with Major General G.D. Bakshi (Retd.), a decorated Indian Army veteran, author, and defense analyst. A soldier-scholar who served with the 6 JAK Rifles, he fought in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War and later led critical counter-insurgency operations in Jammu & Kashmir. Post-retirement, he has become one of India’s most respected and outspoken voices on national security and military strategy.
In this hard-hitting discussion, they explore:
• How Pakistan funds terrorism despite economic collapse
• Pakistan’s global and regional allies against India
• What if Pakistan disintegrates into five different states?
• The possibility of nuclear war between India and Pakistan
• Bangladesh’s link to Operation Sindoor
• Will India regain control over Azad Kashmir?
• India’s evolving foreign, war, and anti-terrorism policies
A gripping conversation on geopolitics, security, and India’s strategic future.
The Syllabus of Life — In this episode, IRS Ravi Kapoor is joined by Ankit Avasthi, an Indian educator, news analyst, YouTuber, and ex-civil servant. An alumnus of IIT Kanpur with over 12 years of teaching experience, Ankit is widely known for his impactful work in education and public service.
In this inspiring conversation, they explore:
• Ankit Avasthi’s journey from IIT to YouTube success
• How to improve communication skills
• Reflections on God, spirituality, and belief
• Why Gandhian ideology still matters today
• Ankit Avasthi’s final message to the youth
An insightful dialogue blending personal growth, education, and timeless values.
The Syllabus of Life — In this episode, IRS Ravi Kapoor sits down with Sameer Wankhede, a senior Indian bureaucrat and IRS officer, best known for his tenure as Director of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB). Widely recognized for leading high-profile narcotics operations, Wankhede came into the national spotlight during the 2021 Aryan Khan drug case.
Together, they uncover gripping insights from the world of law enforcement and national security:
• How deep is the Bollywood drug nexus?
• Inside NIA days and underworld encounters
• Can you ever trust an informer?
• Why has Dawood Ibrahim remained elusive?
• The real status of India’s drug menace
• How drugs are classified by quantity
• Should cannabis be legalized in India?
• Does India face the threat of a drug cartel?
An eye-opening conversation on crime, law, and the hidden challenges of India’s war on drugs.
The Syllabus of Life — In this episode, IRS Ravi Kapoor is in conversation with Ambassador Deepak Vohra, a distinguished Indian diplomat and former envoy, known for his decades of service in the Indian Foreign Service and his influential advisory roles in India and abroad.
Together, they dive into some of the most pressing geopolitical issues of our time:
• Pakistan’s economic collapse after Operation Sindoor
• Why China has its eyes set on Balochistan
• India’s rise as the world’s 5th largest economy
• Pakistan’s nuclear bluff — should India worry?
• The double standards of Donald Trump in global politics
An unfiltered, insightful discussion on India’s strategic future and global power shifts.
The Syllabus of Life — In this episode, Ravi Kapoor sits down with Ankit Avasthi, an Indian educator, news analyst, YouTuber, and ex-civil servant. An alumnus of IIT Kanpur with over 12 years of teaching experience, Ankit brings deep insights into global affairs and India’s geopolitical landscape.
Together, they explore:
• Will there be a World War 3?
• Why are Israel and Iran always on the brink of war?
• Can Iran be stopped from building a nuclear bomb?
• India vs China: What if war breaks out?
• Will the India-Pakistan conflict ever end?
• The future of India-Bangladesh relations
Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on world politics, conflicts, and India’s role on the global stage.
The Syllabus of Life presents journalist Manoj Rajan Tripathi in conversation with IRS Ravi Kapoor.
They uncover the story of Atiq Ahmed, UP’s gangster-turned-politician, the inner workings of IB & RAW, the state of Indian journalism, and whether governments use gangsters for state-sponsored actions.
📚 Grab the UPSC Game: https://store.upscgame.com/
📖 Top book recommendations by Ravi Kapoor: https://youtube.com/shopcollection/SCUCX-9hv9ZFOEIPtnv023pJ2o_CxHUsOdsjw?si=GgTStSqoPFUyyJaq
🎓 Join The Syllabus of Life Academy for free: https://shorturl.at/L9Pbr
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