The Unveiling of the Prank
The video commences with a message from Nithin Kamath, stating, “We carried out a fake police raid in our office to see how the team reacts to extreme stress and to have some fun, of course.” Technicians can be seen setting up hidden cameras around the office, capturing every moment of the unfolding drama. Kamath hired actors to impersonate police officers who, armed with a fabricated Bombay High Court order, stormed the Zerodha office.
Employee Reactions and Tension Build-Up
As the pretend police officers disrupted work and rounded up employees, some staff members resisted, attempting to comprehend the purpose of the raid. The fake officers, accompanied by reporters, demanded the arrest of Zerodha employees, alleging involvement in a ponzi scheme and financial fraud. Tensions escalated as employees were informed that the founder, Kamath, was “out for a meeting,” with the ‘cops’ asserting he was “absconding.”
Hanan, the head of client operations, vehemently sought answers, earning the nickname “angry man,” while Venu, the head of operations, remained composed, negotiating with the impostors and comforting his colleagues. The climax of the prank unfolded when all employees were herded into a room and temporarily locked in, awaiting the return of their “fugitive” boss.
Nithin Kamath made a surprise re-entry, breaking the tension with a loud “Surprise!” instead of providing explanations. The elaborate prank was unveiled, leaving employees shocked, some in tears, and others laughing. The video, initially shared on YouTube, has now gone viral with over 1.8 million views, garnering 13k likes and numerous comments.
Nithin Kamath’s creative approach to team-building through humor has not only provided a memorable episode in Zerodha’s history but has also entertained a broader audience online. The decade-old prank video continues to circulate, showcasing the lighter side of corporate culture and the CEO’s innovative approach to fostering a resilient and united team.