Deepinder Goyal, the founder and CEO of Zomato and parent company Eternal, sat down with creator Raj Shamani in one of the season’s most talked-about podcasts to discuss every significant scandal, rumor, and criticism that has surrounded him and his business empire. The four-hour discussion covered more than simply strategy and development; it also addressed misconceptions, directly addressed criticism, and explained the reasoning behind his leadership choices.

Here’s everything you need to know.

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The allegation that Deepinder creates a poisonous workplace is one of the most discussed issues surrounding him. Zomato’s performance-driven culture and lengthy hours have been cited by critics as proof of this. Goyal candidly discussed this on the podcast:

He clarified that compared to regular corporate positions, startups, particularly those operating at scale, demand a greater degree of responsibility and urgency.

Goyal stressed that while he doesn’t characterize it as exploitation, he does expect leadership to be deeply committed and fixated. He claimed that Zomato offers substantial equity to those who join the trip and pays generously.

Goyal rejected the idea that this way of thinking is “toxic,” arguing that outside of startup culture, discipline and urgency are frequently misinterpreted.

Takeaway: What some call toxicity, Goyal frames as startup urgency and excellence culture — though this remains subjective.

Online rumors surfaced, particularly on Reddit, that Zomato was experiencing internal chaos. These rumors claimed that the company was losing market share to rivals, that employees were being forced to order from Zomato, and that the leadership was showing signs of panic. Anonymous posts reinforced these assertions.

Goyal’s answer? He referred to these accusations as “utter nonsense” and refuted claims that Zomato was restricting employee freedom of choice, losing market share, or enforcing directives. He noted that although it was awkward to have to explain, it was essential because worried consumers were contacting him.

Takeaway: Goyal firmly denied internal dysfunction and reiterated Zomato’s standing and competitive focus.

Goyal disclosed a number of details on system misuse by both clients and gig workers:

• Customers misusing AI to create fake evidence — like AI-generated flies or foreign objects in food — to claim refunds.
• Some customers intentionally put hair in food before claiming issues.
• On the delivery partner side, around 5,000 delivery workers are let go every month for misconduct such as false delivery claims or failing to deliver cash on cash-on-delivery orders.

Zomato employs a “Karma” system to assess behavior and settle conflicts in a fair manner.

Takeaway: Goyal publicly acknowledged difficulties and described how Zomato addresses them rather than concealing the extent of fraud.

One of the most significant industry disputes, Zomato vs. Swiggy, was also covered in the program.

Goyal acknowledged that his doubts about the economic model caused Zomato to enter the food delivery logistics market slowly at first. However, consumer demand compelled a change.

He also talked about the contentious Shark Tank India twist, which Goyal claims caused him to leave the show because Swiggy allegedly withdrew sponsorship until Goyal was removed as a judge.

Goyal acknowledged the competitive market while making light of Zepto’s and other competitors’ marketing.

Takeaway: Goyal was candid about competition — both the missteps and the dynamics with other players.

Controversies are not always external. Goyal also talked on personal weaknesses, such as:

• He claims that his childhood bullying and stammering now cause him anxiety while speaking in front of an audience.
• The strain and criticism that come with being a public person, including negative remarks and online trolling.
• Whether he reads criticism or publicly addresses it (some debate, or social deletion, occurred on Reddit following the introduction of the program).

Takeaway: Goyal was refreshingly open about the mental and emotional side of leadership, something many CEOs avoid.

The podcast also had a controversial section about leadership choices:

Goyal disclosed that he had twice requested Blinkit CEO Albinder Dhindsa to resign in order to expedite integration and performance enhancements following Zomato’s parent firm Eternal’s acquisition of Blinkit.

Takeaway: Tough leadership calls aren’t just rumors — they were explained as strategic choices in a high-pressure business environment.

Deepinder Goyal’s candor and thoroughness in addressing concerns, rather than avoiding them, is what makes this discourse unique and noteworthy.

He spoke candidly about a variety of contentious topics, including leadership culture, competitive rivalry, fraud issues, and personal fears. He also provided background information, justifications, and the company’s philosophy.

Whether or not one agrees with his opinions, this podcast provided accountability and clarity from the head of one of India’s most significant tech companies. And the public’s attention has been drawn to the discussion on social media and in the media because of this transparency.