Amid the growing popularity of Indian podcasters, Raj Shamani has emerged as one of the most influential voices in the country. Known for hosting in-depth conversations across business, psychology, health, relationships, and personal growth, Raj recently beat global giants like Joseph James Rogan Jr and Diary of a CEO to become India’s top podcaster. As a result, books recommended by Raj Shamani have become a high-interest topic for readers actively searching for credible and diverse book recommendations.
Through years of podcasting and interactions with global experts, founders, scientists, and thought leaders, Raj gains first-hand insight into how successful people think, learn, and grow. That exposure directly shapes his reading choices, making the books recommended by Raj Shamani practical, wide-ranging, and highly relevant for anyone looking to build knowledge across multiple areas of life.
Who Is Raj Shamani?
Raj Shamani is an Indian entrepreneur, podcaster, author, and content creator born on hailing from Indore, Madhya Pradesh. He started his online journey with motivational and business-focused videos on platforms like Instagram and YouTube before launching his flagship podcast Figuring Out with Raj Shamani in 2021.
At just 16 years old, Raj became the youngest Indian to address the United Nations Youth Assembly, showcasing his early drive and leadership.
He wrote the book Build, Don’t Talk (published by Penguin Random House) in 2022, which emphasizes taking action over just speaking about ambition.
His Podcast: Figuring Out with Raj Shamani
Figuring Out with Raj Shamani is a long-form interview podcast known for deep, honest conversations with high-profile guests. It has rapidly risen in popularity and, according to Mint, even topped charts ahead of globally acclaimed podcasts like The Joe Rogan Experience and Diary of a CEO, making Raj one of India’s leading podcasters.
The format is wide-ranging: Raj speaks with leaders, creators, thinkers, athletes, space explorers, and more. Recent episodes include a nuanced chat with NASA astronaut Sunita Williams. Another episode that went viral featured entrepreneur Vijay Mallya who appeared in public for the first time in nine years through the podcast.
His show isn’t limited to inspiration; it also dives into politics, psychology, culture, strategy, and personal growth.
Raj’s growing public presence has led to formal legal recognition of his personal brand. In 2025, the Delhi High Court passed a John Doe order to protect his personality rights, acknowledging that his name and likeness are widely known and used across digital platforms, and should not be exploited without permission.
His most-discussed episodes usually revolve around:
- Human psychology and behaviour
- Mental health and trauma
- Discipline, grit, and performance
- Longevity, health, and lifestyle choices
- Power dynamics and decision-making
Naturally, the books recommended by Raj Shamani mirror these themes.
This is one of the most talked-about books in modern psychology and power dynamics. The 48 Laws of Power breaks down how power operates in personal, professional, and political spaces. It’s not about manipulation alone; it’s about awareness. The book helps readers recognise patterns, avoid being naïve, and make informed decisions when stakes are high. Raj often refers to it as essential reading for understanding people, especially in competitive environments.
“It is a very underrated book compared to 48 Laws of Power.”
Mastery focuses on the long game. It studies how great thinkers, artists, and innovators developed deep expertise over time. The book stresses patience, apprenticeship, and self-awareness. For readers tired of shortcuts, this is a grounding book recommendation. Raj highlights it because it teaches you how excellence is built quietly, not overnight.
“It’s for those who don’t want to read intense books; it explains one law a day.”
Another Robert Greene book, it distils the author’s ideas into daily reflections. Each entry offers a practical lesson on power, strategy, or self-control. Raj often suggests it for readers who prefer consistency over heavy reading sessions. It’s designed to be absorbed slowly, making it ideal for daily habit builders.
By Hans Rosling
“It proves that the world is not as bad as we think and violence is at its lowest.”
Factfulness challenges our instinct to assume the worst. Using data and global trends, Rosling shows how many aspects of life have improved over time. Raj recommends this book because it trains critical thinking and reduces emotional overreaction. It’s especially useful in a world driven by negative headlines.
“This book is like a therapy; it will tell you so many things about yourself.”
This book explains how childhood patterns, trauma, and emotional habits shape adult behaviour. It offers tools for self-healing and emotional regulation. Raj often brings it up when discussing self-awareness and inner work. It’s not light reading, but it’s deeply practical.
By Gabor Maté
Scattered Minds explores ADHD through a compassionate and scientific lens. Rather than treating ADHD as a flaw, the book explains its emotional and environmental roots. Raj recommends it for readers trying to understand focus, distraction, and sensitivity, either in themselves or others.
This book explains how trauma lives in the body, even when the mind forgets. Drawing from neuroscience and psychology, it shows how experiences shape physical and emotional responses. Raj often mentions it when discussing mental health beyond motivation and discipline. It’s a challenging, but eye-opening read.
By John Gray
“It’s a beautiful book to understand the other gender.”
This classic explains communication differences between men and women. While some ideas feel dated, the core message still resonates. Raj recommends it for building empathy and reducing conflict in relationships, especially for readers new to emotional literacy.
Grit explains why passion and perseverance matter more than talent. Using research and real-life examples, Duckworth breaks down long-term success. Raj frequently points to this book when discussing consistency, effort, and delayed gratification.
By Sun Tzu
“It is a thin but brilliant book.”
Despite its age, The Art of War remains relevant. It’s about strategy, preparation, and knowing when not to fight. Raj recommends it because it applies equally to business, relationships, and personal decisions. Short, sharp, and timeless.
“Every tweet or quote that clicks will change your life.”
This book compiles Naval Ravikant’s thoughts on wealth, happiness, and decision-making. Raj often highlights it for its clarity. You don’t need to agree with everything, but many ideas stay with you long after reading.
By Peter Attia
“If you want to read the basics, you should read this.”
Outlive focuses on longevity, healthspan, and preventive medicine. It explains how daily habits affect long-term health. Raj recommends it as foundational reading for anyone serious about physical and mental well-being, not just fitness trends.
By Osho
Book of Man explores responsibility, purpose, and masculine identity. It’s more reflective than prescriptive. Raj often refers to it in conversations about duty, discipline, and self-respect. It’s best read slowly, allowing ideas to sit rather than rushing through.
(Read: Who Is Osho? The Controversial Guru & Bestselling “Author”)
The books recommended by Raj Shamani aren’t casual picks. They reflect a pattern of deep thinking, long-term growth, and honest self-examination. If you’re building a reading habit or looking for your next solid book recommendation, this list gives you range without confusion.
