India's Obsession with Gold

More than metal, gold is woven into India’s culture, economy, and imagination.

In this episode of That’s The Thing, Jimmy, Kavya, and Atharva explore how gold became one of the country’s most powerful obsessions. From ancient civilisations and temple towers to alchemy, smuggling, medicine, and even mobile phones — they trace gold’s journey through history, mythology, pop culture, and everyday life.

Why do Indian households hold more gold than most nations? How did a Roman dream of turning metal into gold lead to modern chemistry? And what does it say about us that gold is found in our art, our prayers, and even our food?

With stories, trivia, and humour, the trio digs into everything from zari embroidery and gold-plated awards to the global gold rush, edible gold, and some very strange smuggling tactics.

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