Wed Feb 05 11:31:05 IST 2025: ## Tech Millionaire’s Mumbai Podcast Cut Short by Air Pollution, Sparking Debate in India

**Mumbai, India** – A recent podcast recording in Mumbai unexpectedly highlighted India’s widespread air pollution problem, prompting a public discussion about its impact and normalization. Tech millionaire Bryan Johnson, known for his anti-aging research, abruptly left a recording session for Nikhil Kamath’s podcast due to poor air quality, even with an air purifier running. The incident, which took place in a Bandra apartment, prompted Zerodha co-founder Nithin Kamath to share his own observations on Instagram.

Kamath revealed that he had previously believed Delhi to be the sole city with a significant air quality issue. However, the Mumbai AQI reading of 160+ during the recording shattered this misconception. He further noted that Bengaluru, where his office is located, registered an AQI of 120+, highlighting that the problem is far more widespread than commonly acknowledged. Kamath contrasted this with the significantly cleaner air quality found in most US and European cities, where AQIs typically remain below 50.

Johnson, who also posted about the experience on X (formerly Twitter), described the air pollution as “normalized” in India. He noted skin irritation, burning eyes and throat, and the lack of widespread mask-wearing despite the known health risks. He questioned the lack of a national emergency declaration regarding the issue. He drew a parallel to the US’s obesity crisis, noting that while both pose significant long-term health risks, neither has received the attention it deserves.

Kamath advocated for incorporating AQI into property pricing, suggesting that higher AQI areas should see lower real estate values due to the increased health risks. Both Kamath and Johnson emphasized the long-term health consequences of poor air quality, including lung damage, cardiovascular problems, and cancer. The incident has reignited the conversation surrounding India’s air pollution crisis and the need for more widespread awareness and action.

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