Q1. Pramod ji, thank you for joining us. To begin with, could you share a little about your personal journey and what led you toward financial literacy?
Answer by Pramod Kumar Agrawal:
Thank you for inviting me. My journey toward financial literacy began when I observed that so many people around me — hardworking, sincere, and dedicated individuals — were still living with financial pressure. Their challenge wasn’t lack of income, but lack of clarity. Over the years, I saw families with good earnings struggle during emergencies, young professionals unsure about where to invest, and homemakers saving diligently but without direction. I realized financial literacy is not just about growing wealth; it is about living with confidence and peace. That understanding gradually shaped my desire to educate people through a simple, practical medium — a book.
Q2. What inspired you specifically to write Shunya Se Shikhar Tak – Aapki Arthik Swatantrata Ki Yatra?
Answer by Pramod Kumar Agrawal:
The inspiration came from the gap that exists between people’s aspirations and their actual financial understanding. In conversations with students, parents, office-goers, and homemakers, I noticed that everyone wants security and growth, but most feel uncertain about how to begin. I wanted to write a book that removes this fear — a book that doesn’t overwhelm the reader with jargon, but instead walks with them like a companion. I wanted every person, whether they start at zero or have some experience, to feel that financial freedom is achievable.
Q3. The title uses two powerful words: ‘Shunya’ and ‘Shikhar’. What do they represent to you?
Answer by Pramod Kumar Agrawal:
For me, “Shunya” represents that stage where one feels lost, confused, or unsure about money. It’s not a negative point — it’s simply a starting point. “Shikhar” represents confidence, security, and independence, where money becomes a tool for living life on your own terms. Everyone, no matter their background, can begin from Shunya and gradually reach Shikhar. The journey is shaped not by income, but by awareness, discipline, protection, and smart decisions. That is what this title symbolizes.
Q4. What is the core problem you feel Indian households face when it comes to money?
Answer by Pramod Kumar Agrawal:
The biggest challenge is that most households do not have structured financial thinking. People often earn well but lack clarity on how to plan, save, or invest. Sometimes they invest without understanding risks; other times, they avoid investing altogether out of fear. Many families depend on a single person to handle finances, and that creates blind spots. My book addresses these everyday gaps — the ones that are simple to fix but often ignored.
Q5. One of the strongest ideas in your book is the formula “Protection + Investment = Financial Freedom.” How did this philosophy take shape?
Answer by Pramod Kumar Agrawal:
This philosophy evolved through real experiences. I have seen people build savings for years but lose everything because of one health emergency, accident, or crisis. Investments can generate wealth, but protection safeguards life itself. True financial freedom happens only when both these pillars work together. That is why I emphasize protection first — not as fear, but as responsibility. Once the foundation is strong, investment becomes effective.
Q6. Your book has a dedicated focus on women and homemakers. Why was that important to you?
Answer by Pramod Kumar Agrawal:
Women, especially homemakers, are the backbone of financial discipline in many households. They understand savings better than most, yet often stay out of formal planning and investment decisions. I wanted this book to give them clarity, direction, and confidence. When women become financially aware, they strengthen not just themselves but the entire family. Including them in the financial journey is essential, and this book gives them a simple roadmap.
Q7. What do you believe is the most common financial mistake people make?
Answer by Pramod Kumar Agrawal:
The most common mistake is postponing decisions. People think they will plan “someday,” start investing “later,” or buy insurance “when needed.” But financial planning works only when it begins early and consistently. Another mistake is not tracking expenses. Even people with high incomes leak money without realizing it. Awareness and discipline are more important than income.
Q8. Your book touches on tax planning, wills, nominations, and digital safety. Why include these topics in a financial freedom guide?
Answer by Pramod Kumar Agrawal:
Because financial literacy is incomplete without long-term security. Many people avoid topics like nomination and wills because they seem complicated or uncomfortable. But one missing document can cause years of trouble for families. Similarly, with digital payments rising, online fraud is a real threat. My book covers these areas to make sure readers don’t just grow their money — they also protect it.
Q9. What do you hope the reader feels after completing your book?
Answer by Pramod Kumar Agrawal:
I want readers to feel empowered, not intimidated. My goal is to help them realize that financial freedom is not about income levels, but about understanding money. I hope they finish the book with clarity, confidence, and the belief that they can take control of their finances starting today.
Q10. What would you say to someone who feels they are starting from absolute zero?
Answer by Pramod Kumar Agrawal:
My message is simple: starting from zero is not a disadvantage; it is an opportunity. Every journey begins with awareness. Even small steps, small savings, small decisions — when done consistently — create long-term impact. What matters is beginning with intention and staying committed. Anyone can rise from Shunya to Shikhar.
Closing Note
Through Shunya Se Shikhar Tak – Aapki Arthik Swatantrata Ki Yatra, Pramod Kumar Agrawal brings financial literacy out of complicated textbooks and places it directly into the hands of everyday individuals. His message is clear: financial clarity is not reserved for experts — it belongs to everyone.