We have to admit, and right at the beginning, that audio is not our most favourite format. We’d rather read than listen to books, and watch instead of consuming audio shows or podcasts. Yet, in the pandemic, with the silence so overbearing, we’ve found ourselves plugged in, more often than not. Sometimes while on a long stroll, or just before falling asleep. Perhaps, we’ve begun to like the sound of it. Perhaps, there are many more like us taking a shine to it.

No wonder audio platforms are going all out to woo Indians listeners. Last month, Audible India launched its all-you-can-listen Plus catalogue for members with thousands of free book titles, podcasts and audio shows to choose from. Over 20 titles among these were headlined by some of India’s most popular faces from Bollywood and television; not to mention, TV Czarina Ekta Kapoor’s audio debut with Darmiyaan. We listened to three of them—a happy mix of crime, comedy and romance drama.