In the latest episode of his popular podcast, WTF is, Nikhil Kamath takes a deep dive into the complex world of Indian real estate, featuring three industry heavyweights: Irfan Razack (Chairman of Prestige Group), Nirupa Shankar (Joint MD of Brigade Group), and Karan Virwani (CEO of WeWork & Embassy). Titled “WTF are Indian Real Estate Giants Up To?” this episode offers valuable insights into the evolution of India’s real estate sector, the challenges of family-run businesses, and the emerging opportunities for young entrepreneurs.

Kamath, known for his scepticism towards real estate as an asset class, opens the discussion with a candid admission: “For those who know me, I’m not the biggest fan of real estate—but I may also not know enough.” This honesty sets the tone for a compelling conversation that reveals the behind-the-scenes realities of India’s largest asset class.

The episode is packed with advice for budding real estate entrepreneurs. Irfan Razack, who built Prestige Group into a household name, emphasises the importance of starting small. He advocates taking calculated risks and gradually building trust through modest projects like land aggregation or joint developments. His journey is a testament to how persistence and strategy can lead to scaling up in the industry.

Karan Virwani adds a fresh perspective on the evolving demands of modern office spaces. As CEO of WeWork & Embassy, Virwani discusses how coworking models are reshaping the future of real estate. He highlights the significant opportunities in flexible workspaces, noting that entrepreneurs should look beyond traditional real estate models and embrace ventures that cater to the shifting needs of businesses in today’s dynamic landscape.

A major theme of the episode revolves around family-run businesses and the complexities of managing growth and succession. Nirupa Shankar shares her experiences at Brigade Group, where her father divided leadership responsibilities among family members to prevent conflicts and ensure smooth transitions. This strategy, she explains, has helped their business thrive across generations, with each family member contributing uniquely to different verticals.

Kamath and his guests also discuss balancing personal relationships and professional roles within family enterprises. By keeping emotions separate from business decisions, family-run companies can avoid ego clashes and sustain long-term growth. This advice is particularly crucial for second—and third-generation entrepreneurs navigating the delicate succession process.

In WTF are Indian Real Estate Giants Up To?, Kamath successfully breaks down the barriers surrounding real estate, offering listeners a transparent and insightful look into the sector’s challenges and opportunities. From modern workspace models to family business dynamics, the episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of real estate in India.