Bitcoin Adoption in India

Explore how Abhilash (Abhi) and Bitcoin India are driving grassroots Bitcoin adoption through meetups, education, and decentralized platforms like Nostr and what this means for the future of Bitcoin in the world’s most populous democracy.

In this episode of The Bitcoin Libertarian, we sit down with Abhilash (Abhi), a leading voice from Bitcoin India, to explore how grassroots movements are planting the seeds of a Bitcoin revolution in one of the world’s most dynamic and complex economies. From bustling meetups in Mumbai and Delhi to decentralized dialogue on platforms like Nostr, Abhi walks us through the challenges and triumphs of building a Bitcoin-only community in a nation that’s racing toward digital innovation—yet still largely unaware of Bitcoin’s potential as sovereign money. It’s a story of persistence, purpose, and belief in the idea that hyperbitcoinization won’t come from the top down, but from the cafés, WhatsApp groups, and conference rooms of a billion-strong population waking up to a broken system.

Table of Contents

From Atlas Shrugged to Bitcoin: Abhi’s Orange-Pill Journey

For Abhi, Bitcoin wasn’t a sudden conversion. It was a gradual unveiling. First came the ideological awakening through Ayn Rand’s Atlas Shrugged back in his college days. The book gave him a lens to examine society—its builders, moochers, and contradictions.

A decade later, after reading Blockchain Revolution and working with BitHive’s Hexa Wallet, Abhi encountered Bitcoin not just as a product, but as a philosophy. With mentorship from Hexa CEO Anand Tapadia, the orange pill became permanent.

The Birth of Bitcoin for India

What began as a question — “How many Bitcoiners are actually in India?” — turned into a national mission.

Abhi and a few peers organized a Bitcoin-only meetup. To their surprise, enthusiasts came from across the country, eager to connect. The event confirmed what they suspected: there was a hidden but growing class of Indian Bitcoiners—tired of scams, hungry for sovereignty.

This spirit birthed Bitcoin for India, a decentralized, nonprofit movement for education, networking, and action.

Meetups That Spark Movements

In India, WhatsApp is king. And Bitcoin meetups often begin with something as simple as a group message.

These meetups aren't always structured. Sometimes there's a speaker, sometimes it’s free-flowing. But the goal is consistent: connect, educate, and orange-pill.

Venues like pubs and cafes often host them free of charge during off-hours. The result? A casual, welcoming space where new Bitcoiners emerge and veterans deepen their commitment.

No-Coiners, Shitcoiners & Orange-Pilling Patience

India’s economic reality presents both an opportunity and a hurdle.

While inflation exists, it hasn't reached a tipping point that forces people to question fiat. Many Indians are still financially stable enough to ignore the problem—for now.

“The pinch hasn’t hit. We’re not where Argentina or Lebanon is. But we’re getting there.”

Abhi stresses patience in dealing with shitcoiners and no-coiners. Ask questions. Let them speak. Don’t preach.

Nostr and the Rise of Decentralized Expression

When asked about Nostr, Abhi lights up.

He credits creators like Sai and Basanta for championing Nostr in India and building awareness around decentralized communication.

The ecosystem is still small, but passionate. And it's growing.

Bitcoin Conferences: Education at Scale

Bitcoin for India held its first major conference in 2023 with over 200 participants. The event focused on real-world applications, not just theory.

Talks included:

  • Orange-pilling through Socratic questioning

  • Human rights and Bitcoin with guest Alex Lee

  • Sovereignty and off-grid living

  • Technical tracks for devs entering open-source Bitcoin work

A 2024 edition hasn’t been confirmed—but the spirit of the event continues through meetups and satellite events.

The Indian Regulatory Landscape

India has been a paradox: advanced in digital payments (UPI), yet slow to recognize Bitcoin’s value.

Unlike Bhutan or Pakistan, India’s government has not explored mining or strategic reserves. While CBDCs like the e-rupee gain momentum, Bitcoin remains misunderstood in official circles.

Strategic Reserves and Global Game Theory

Abhi draws a parallel between early atomic physicists and the U.S.'s lead in Bitcoin accumulation.

He sees opportunity for countries like India—but only if awareness grows within both the public and policy-makers.

Challenges on the Ground

Like many grassroots efforts, Bitcoin for India faces obstacles:

  • Bad actors: Those who show up just to disrupt

  • No public support: Government indifference

  • Burnout: Organizers needing time off after intense seasons

Yet the mission endures, fueled by the strength of the plebs and belief in the cause.

The Road Ahead for Bitcoin India

More meetups. More orange-pills. More encouragement for others to start their own thing.

Abhi’s message is simple: Call a meetup. Post it online. People will come. Community will grow.

Conclusion

As India rises on the world stage, its relationship with Bitcoin remains in its infancy. But if Abhi and the Bitcoin for India movement have shown anything, it’s that education, grassroots energy, and relentless optimism can spark massive change.

So whether you're a dev in Delhi, a pleb in Pune, or a curious student in Bangalore, there’s a meetup—and a movement—waiting for you.

 FAQs

What is Bitcoin for India?

A community-driven nonprofit focused on grassroots Bitcoin adoption through local meetups, education, and networking events.

Who is Abhilash (Abhi)?

A core contributor to Bitcoin for India, previously part of BitHive, and passionate advocate for building India’s Bitcoin ecosystem.

Are Bitcoin meetups common in India?

They’re growing rapidly. Cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore host them regularly, often coordinated via WhatsApp.

What’s the status of Bitcoin regulation in India?

There’s no major support or infrastructure from the government yet. CBDCs and payment rails dominate the conversation.

How does Nostr play a role?

Indian Bitcoiners use Nostr for decentralized content creation and communication. It’s still niche but gaining traction.

That's all for today, see ya tomorrow! If you want more, be sure to follow our X (@croxroadnewsco), Instagram (@croxroadnews.co), Youtube (@thebitcoinlibertarian), Tiktok (@croxroadnews) and nostr - [email protected]

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DISCLAIMER: None of this is financial advice. This newsletter is strictly educational and is not investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any assets or to make any financial decisions. Please be careful and do your own research.

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