India’s recent claim to the title of the world’s fourth-largest economy, surpassing Japan, sparked celebrations and headlines. But beneath the triumphant narrative lies a starkly different reality, one that reveals a nation grappling with deep-seated inequality, persistent poverty, and a growth story that benefits a select few while leaving millions behind.

Imagine waking up to find your money is worth less, your savings are eroding, and your dreams slipping further away. Inflation, the silent thief, doesn’t strike everyone equally. It’s a shape-shifter, punishing some while rewarding others. As we stand in 2025, with global economies teetering and growth stories under scrutiny, what does inflation hold for all of us?