Episodit
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Why are mental health disorder cases rising in India? Why are so many young people struggling with depression and anxiety? What are the real causes of ADHD, and how can we break common myths about mental health?
To answer these questions, we are joined by Dr. Achal Bhagat, one of New Delhi’s leading psychiatrists. He is a Senior Consultant Psychiatrist and leads a team of psychologists, social workers, and therapists.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Dr Bhagat talks about India’s mental health crisis, including stress at work, relationship struggles, and rising divorce rates. He also explains why children and teenagers are more affected by depression and how society often misunderstands mental health.
Don’t miss this episode to learn how to manage stress, anxiety, and depression, and how to seek help from professionals.
Audio Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
00:48 - Psychiatrist vs. Psychologist vs. Therapist
09:07 - Violence Against Women
12:15 - Depression Among Women
14:05 - Mental Health Stigma
17:21 - Mental Health Myths
22:38 - Time to Discuss Mental Health
23:12 - Suicide Cases in Kota
27:00 - Parental and School Pressure
28:44 - How Psychiatrists Handle Suicidal Thoughts
33:42 - Loneliness Among the Ageing Population
40:22 - Social Media Addiction
43:10 - Work-Life Pressure
50:22 - Managing Relationship Pressures
54:12 - Increasing Divorce Rates in India
58:00 - Alcohol and Smoking
01:00:09 - Pollution and Mental Health
01:02:38 - Depression and Anxiety
01:04:15 - Mental Illness: Diagnosis and Treatment
01:08:21 - Genetics and Mental Health Disorders
01:11:22 - Helping Someone in Mental Distress
01:30:10 - Mental Health Terms to Avoid
01:34:00 - Parenting for Boys and Girls
01:37:28 - Relationship Between Patients and Psychiatrists
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What does it take to become a supermodel? How difficult is it to reach the top of the modelling industry? What role do diet and body image play in modelling? Why is there a rise in cosmetic surgeries among models and actors? What goes on behind the scenes during a fashion show?
To answer these questions, we're joined by Alicia Kaur, a Mumbai-based model originally from Australia, who has made a name for herself in the fashion industry.
In this ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Alicia talks about the challenges she faced in the modelling world and why discipline is key to success. She also shares her struggles while working in China and discusses the roles of designers, choreographers, and models in fashion events.
Alicia opens up about a viral skit she did with actor Sidharth Malhotra, which led to a lot of criticism. She also speaks about her decision to undergo breast surgery and why some models feel the need to enhance their facial features. Plus, she shares her experience of working with Shah Rukh Khan on an ad campaign.
Don't miss this episode to learn what it takes to be a supermodel.
00:00 - Introduction
00:38 - Modeling: A Childhood Dream
08:08 - Work Experience in China
15:08 - Struggling Due to Passport Theft in Hong Kong
17:52 - Journey to Becoming a Supermodel & Touring India
21:08 - Sidharth Malhotra & Alicia's Viral Video
23:58 - Role of Designers, Choreographers, and Models in Fashion Events
25:55 - What Happens Backstage During Fashion Shows
28:35 - Choosing Veganism
35:01 - Cosmetic Surgery Among Models
39:16 - The Reason for Undergoing Breast Surgery
42:06 - Celebrities Trolled for Botox
45:23 - Facing Acceptance Issues
48:16 - Favorite Designers
50:18 - Drug Issues in the Modeling Industry
51:38 - Is Modeling a Gateway to Bollywood?
52:41 - Working Experience with Shah Rukh Khan
55:53 - First Ad Shoot in India
57:36 - Addressing Skin Color Diversity in Modeling
01:02:58 - Advice for Aspiring Models
01:07:53 - Favorite Indian Food
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Puuttuva jakso?
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Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore from 1782 to 1799, is often celebrated in history books as a freedom fighter and the "Tiger of Mysore." He was the son of Hyder Ali, a Muslim military officer who became the king of Mysore after overthrowing the Hindu Wadiyar dynasty. But was Tipu Sultan truly a freedom fighter, or was he an Islamist ruler known for his tyranny?
In his latest book, 'Tipu Sultan: The Saga of Mysore's Interregnum (1760–1799)', historian and author Dr. Vikram Sampath challenges the popular narratives about Tipu Sultan. Drawing on detailed research, Dr. Sampath explains Tipu’s actions against Hindus and Christians, including the destruction of temples, forced conversion to Islam, and what he describes as "religious genocide."
Dr Sampath, known for his two-volume biography of V.D. Savarkar and other notable works, discusses these controversial aspects of Tipu Sultan’s rule in this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash.
He also criticizes political parties for celebrating Tipu Jayanti, arguing that Tipu’s legacy includes the torture and slaughter of thousands of Hindus and Christians and that he should be remembered for these actions, not glorified.
Tune in to this episode to uncover the true history of Tipu Sultan and understand why he remains a figure of admiration in Pakistan and among its politicians.
00:00 - Introduction
02:10 - Why write a book on Tipu Sultan?
06:55 - Fire at the 'Sword of Tipu Sultan' set, 1989
09:50 - How did Vikram Learn Kannada
17:40 - Article on Mysore Dewans
22:21 - How long did the book research take?
29:45 - On Tipu Sultan's father, Hyder Ali
37:55 - How Hyder Ali overthrew the Wadiyars
48:05 - Tipu Sultan’s mother
56:35 - Naraka Chaturdashi Story
01:09:10 - Hyder Ali, a 'womanizer'
01:19:20 - Mass circumcision of 85,000 Kodavas (Coorgis)
01:25:30 - Was Tipu Sultan a freedom fighter?
01:34:10 - The first decade of Tipu's rule
01:45:40 - Shankaracharya's trick to save the Math
01:54:50 - The surrender of Tipu Sultan’s two sons
02:03:28 - The cannons of Tipu Sultan
02:08:20 - The reason behind writing the 984-page book
02:11:30 - Black magic
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Sunil Chhetri is widely regarded as one of the greatest football players in India. Playing as a forward for the national team from 2005 to 2024, he became the country's all-time top goal-scorer and most-capped player. Internationally, he stands fourth on the list of all-time goal-scorers, behind legends like Messi, Ronaldo, and Daei.
In Indian club football, Chhetri has been a star, representing teams like Bengaluru FC, Mohun Bagan, and Mumbai City FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) and I-League. Over his two-decade-long career, he has maintained exceptional fitness and performance, even into his late 30s. He retired from international football in June 2024.
In this podcast with Smita Prakash, you'll see a new side of Sunil Chhetri. He talks openly about his struggles, why he chose football, the role his family played in his journey, and the importance of food and fitness in an athlete’s life.
Chhetri also shares his thoughts on handling criticism on social media, his retirement plans, and his close friendship with Indian cricketer Virat Kohli. He even reveals whether he plans to enter politics after retirement.
Don't miss this candid conversation with India's football legend, Sunil Chhetri, like you've never seen before!
00:00 - Introduction
02:06 - Childhood Memories from Delhi
08:04 - Growing Up: School Days in Delhi
11:52 - Why Chhetri Chose Football
15:33 - Getting into Mohun Bagan Club
21:40 - What Athletes Should Eat
26:25 - Chhetri's Love for Football
29:52 - Struggling in Foreign Clubs
36:05 - Good and Bad Days in Sports
37:59 - Experience Playing for Mohun Bagan
40:44 - How Football Fans Behave
45:29 - Handling Fans in Public
47:12 - Role of Money in Football
54:44 - Underprivileged Kids & Their Desire to Succeed in Sports
01:03:43 - Feeling After Scoring Against Pakistan
01:04:09 - Retirement Announcement
01:09:11 - Fans' Reactions During Matches
01:11:22 - Controversial Kick Against Kerala Blasters
01:14:38 - Dealing with Social Media Trolling
01:17:42 - Football Fans vs. Cricket Fans
01:20:40 - Does Chhetri Play Cricket?
01:21:38 - Common Traits Between Virat Kohli & Sunil Chhetri
01:24:17 - Feeling While Playing Against Pakistan
01:27:49 - Igor Stimac’s Astrologer Allegations
01:28:50 - Does Chhetri Believe in Astrology?
01:30:19 - Failures & Leading the Indian Football Team
01:35:11 - How India Can Beat the US & China in Sports
01:40:24 - Never Endorsing Gutka or Sugary Products
01:41:50 - Veg vs. Non-Veg Food in Sports
01:46:05 - Sleep, Food, and Timing
01:50:14 - Chhetri on His Son Becoming a Footballer
01:51:24 - Athletes Chhetri Admired
01:54:26 - School Days
01:57:39 - Peak Period of Career
02:00:37 - Plans After ISL & Joining Politics
02:03:57 - Benefits of Ice Baths
02:05:24 - Impact of Social Media Usage on Youngsters
02:07:07 - What After Ronaldo and Messi?
02:10:03 - Chhetri on Retirement
02:12:14 - Will Chhetri Become a Coach?
02:15:09 - Helping Underprivileged Kids in Sports
02:18:17 - Hard Work vs. Hunger vs. Talent in Sports
02:21:57 - Parents Watching Chhetri's Games
02:23:19 - Sledging in Football
02:27:55 - Role and Support of Family
02:31:56 - Why India Loves Chhetri
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What is Brahma Kumaris? Is it a religious cult or a spiritual movement? How did a movement that began in the 1930s in Hyderabad, Sindh (now in Pakistan), grow to have over a million followers and 5000 centres in 135 countries worldwide? What is the purpose of Brahma Kumaris? How do its followers view religion, and why do women hold key administrative positions within the organization?
In this episode of ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, BK Shivani answers these questions. A practitioner and teacher of Rajyoga Meditation since 1996, BK Shivani is a well-known TV personality and the host of the show 'Awakening With Brahma Kumaris', which focuses on mental stress, happiness, and relationships.
She also shares her thoughts on Ram Rajya, Akhand Bharat, and parenting in this insightful conversation.
00:00 - Introduction
01:56 - How Brahma Kumaris Began
10:58 - Ram Rajya & Akhand Bharat
15:18 - The Role of Religion in People’s Lives
21:20 - Why BK Shivani Joined Brahma Kumaris
28:02 - Adopting Celibacy
30:28 - Why Do Brahma Kumaris Wear White Clothes?
35:37 - Rules of Celibacy
40:45 - How to End Violence and Crime
47:17 - Garbh Sanskar Explained
54:22 - Outside vs. Home-Cooked Food
56:46 - Attachment vs. Love
01:03:08 - Can You Always Think Right?
01:09:08 - Why Don’t Brahma Kumaris Eat Outside?
01:14:06 - Is the End of Kalyug Near?
01:16:09 - What Is Forgiveness?
01:23:57 - How Are Atheists Taught Spirituality?
01:29:58 - Do Issues Vary Between the Rich and the Poor?
01:32:15 - Holidays: Before vs. Now
01:38:51 - Can Anyone Change Someone’s Thinking?
01:43:28 - BK Shivani’s Thoughts on Crime and Violence
01:46:35 - Is There Any Role of Destiny in Life?
01:52:50 - Talking to a Loved One at Life’s Final Stage
02:07:38 - Live-In Relationships
02:09:02 - Substance Abuse
02:15:58 - Social Media
02:17:19 - The Joy of Missing Out
02:19:54 - Divorce
02:28:37 - News Debates
02:30:18 - Sex Education
02:34:46 - What Is Love?
02:37:42 - Stress
02:40:43 - Therapy
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This special podcast discusses two pressing issues involving India’s neighbours, Bangladesh and Pakistan.
Since Sheikh Hasina's ouster, over 2,000 attacks on Hindus have been reported in Bangladesh. Is this part of a 'religious cleansing' against Hindus? Is Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus’s regime aligning with Islamist forces? Could India face a surge of migrants in the coming months?
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s political chaos shows no signs of slowing down. PTI supporters, led by Imran Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi, marched towards Islamabad, resulting in dozens of deaths and many injuries. What lies ahead for Imran Khan? Will he ever be released from jail?
To answer all these questions, the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash is joined by two experts Tilak Devasher, an author of three acclaimed books on Pakistan and a National Security Advisory Board member. Sushant Sareen, a senior fellow at ORF and a leading analyst on Pakistani affairs.
The podcast also explores how the political and social turmoil in Bangladesh and Pakistan could impact India.
00:00 - Coming Up
00:00 - Introduction
04:25 - Recognition of Bangladesh & Pakistan
06:43 - Attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh
13:36 - Muhammad Yunus and Jamaat
15:38 - Bangladesh Becoming a 'Taliban State'?
20:06 - Will Bangladesh Army Stop Violence Against Hindus?
23:31 - Role of the Deep State in Pakistan & Bangladesh
29:11 - Social Media and Political Mobilization
30:16 - Why Pakistanis Are Using VPNs
34:46 - Pro-Imran Khan Protests
42:10 - Who Is Bushra Bibi?
48:50 - How Crowd Control Works
56:18 - Why Did Imran Khan Marry Bushra Bibi?
1:02:31 - Pakistan Army vs. Imran Khan
1:09:20 - Pakistan Army Losing Its Hold on the Country?
1:13:30 - Saudi Arabia’s Connection to Imran Khan
1:16:18 - What Happens If Imran Khan Comes Out of Jail?
1:19:23 - Why Is Imran Khan Still Popular in Pakistan?
1:25:12 - What’s Next for Imran Khan?
1:28:27 - "Pakistan Is Running Dry"
1:31:30 - The Situation of Hindus in Bangladesh
1:36:30 - India’s Response to Bangladesh
1:41:30 - Pakistan’s Existential Crisis
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Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud served as the 50th Chief Justice of India from November 9, 2022, to November 10, 2024. During his tenure, he was a part of several landmark judgments, including the Ayodhya verdict, the decriminalization of Section 377, entry of women into the Sabarimala temple, the fundamental right to privacy, and the constitutionality of the Electoral Bonds Scheme, among others.
He is widely respected for making the judiciary more tech-savvy and accessible. Under his leadership, the court embraced technological advancements such as live broadcasting of hearings, digitalization of Supreme Court and High Court records, and AI for transcribing judicial proceedings.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, the former Chief Justice shares his views on several key issues. He discusses the collegium system, the Ayodhya Ram Temple verdict, and the impact of online trolling on judges' mental well-being. He highlights the heavy scrutiny judges face in the age of social media, where every word and decision is closely examined.
Justice Chandrachud also addresses the opposition's claim that the judiciary is under pressure. He emphasizes that one does not need to be an atheist to deliver unbiased and fair judgments and speaks about practising faith while upholding the law.
The conversation also touches on his retirement, his choice to follow a vegan lifestyle, his family, and his thoughts on whether he might enter politics in the future.
00:00 - Coming Up
00:00 - Introduction
01:38 - Retirement Plans
04:16 - On Teaching Law
06:24 - Delhi Air Pollution
12:20 - Delhi Govt vs L-G Tussle
16:42 - On his legacy
18:35 - Why He Chose to Become a Judge
23:04 - Trolling of Judges
25:54 - SC Handbook on Gender Stereotypes
29:21 - Media Scrutiny
31:54 - Who Authored the Ayodhya Verdict
36:33 - Liberal vs Conservative Judge Labels
38:17 - When the Ex-CJI Prayed for a Solution
44:17 - Sambhal Mosque Row
45:51 - Ganpati Puja with PM Modi
48:37 - Is the Indian Judiciary Under Pressure?
56:20 - Article 370 Judgment
57:24 - Overturning His Father’s Judgment
58:37 - Why He Got into the Legal Profession
01:02:24 - Nepotism in the Indian Judicial System
01:06:04 - The Collegium System
01:09:21 - Pendency of Court Cases in India
01:18:10 - Advocates’ Affordability
01:27:24 - Decriminalization of Homosexuality
01:32:24 - Roe v. Wade Judgment
01:34:16 - Disability-Friendly Courts
01:39:00 - Choosing a Vegan Lifestyle
01:44:40 - Judges Entering Politics
01:49:58 - Supreme Court Prison Report
01:53:34 - Privacy Issues for Judges in the Digital Era
01:56:13 - Live Telecast of Hearings
02:04:30 - Caste Element in Judgments
02:08:04 - International Disputes
02:12:19 - How DY Chandrachud Relaxes
02:17:57 - Hindi vs English- language used in courts
02:23:09 - Interaction with PM, CM, and President
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A post on Twitter claiming that foreigners are 'avoiding' Goa due to 'bad services and treatment' has put the state government under scrutiny. Many blame Goa’s 'Taxi Mafia,' which charges high fares due to the lack of private app-based cab services. Some criticize the dirty beaches and the attitude of overcharging both domestic and foreign tourists. Many also argue that Goa is overpriced, and tourists can visit Thailand, Vietnam, or Sri Lanka on the same budget, where they offer a better and more pleasant stay.
Is this the reality, or is there more to the story? In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, the Goa Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte addresses all queries about tourism, including whether foreigners are abandoning Goa. He also discusses issues like drug trafficking, rave parties, and the casino culture in Goa.
00:00 - Introduction
01:41 - Goa Tourism in Trouble?
08:04 - Agenda Against Goa Tourism?
12:30 - 'Taxi Mafia' in Goa
19:22 - Commuters' Concerns in Goa
22:40 - Goa's Filthy Beaches
26:11 - Stray Dogs and Cattle on Beaches
28:24 - Fewer ATMs in Goa
30:45 - Power Cuts in Goa
32:44 - Goa's Road Infrastructure
35:20 - Is Goa an Expensive Tourist Destination?
37:25 - Chikhal Kalo Festival
42:20 - IFFI 2024
47:05 - Drug Trafficking in Goa
50:17 - Goan Culture
54:58 - Diversifying Goa's Economy
59:40 - Casinos in Goa
1:03:02 - Mopa vs. Dabolim Airport
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Manipur is on the edge, with no end in sight to the Kuki-Meitei divide. AFSPA has been imposed in six districts, and additional forces have been deployed in the state after 11suspected militants were killed in an encounter with the CRPF.
When will peace return to Manipur? Is the Centre delaying taking the strictest action against radical groups? What's the solution?
In the latest episode of the ANI podcast, Lt Gen D S Hooda (Retd) answers all these questions. Having served for 40 years, he held multiple posts, including Army Commander of the Northern Command. He was the Army Commander during the Chumar incident along the LAC in 2014 and during the launch of the surgical strikes in September 2016. He retired in November 2016.
In this episode he also talks about the India-China border truce and whether Beijing can be trusted. He explains in detail what is happening in Jammu and Kashmir and why there is a rise in terror attacks there.
More on the surgical strikes against Pakistan in 2016, reforms in the Army, and expenditure on the armed forces.
00:00 - Introduction
01:22 - Manipur Crisis Explained
04:32 - Meiteis-Kukis Ethnic Divide
09:52 - Assam Rifles Row in Manipur
10:52 - Armed Groups in Manipur
13:29 - How to Restore Peace in Manipur
14:43 - Manipur Crisis: A National Security Matter
16:60 (17:00) - Why No Action Against Violence in Manipur
18:03 - India-China Border Truce
20:12 - Can China Be Trusted?
21:52 - Why China 'Dislikes' India's Rise
26:40 - Buffer Zones at LAC
28:12 - Chumar Standoff in 2014
38:12 - When the PLA Left Its Soldier in India
40:52 - Facilities for Soldiers at LAC
45:22 - Attacks in Jammu & Kashmir
55:37 - Local Support for Terrorists in J&K
1:00:37 - Does India Need More Army Personnel?
1:02:19 - Expenditure on Armed Forces
1:09:08 - Armed Forces 'Reluctant' Towards Tech Reforms?
1:14:10 - Overseeing Surgical Strikes Against Pak in 2016
1:19:17 - Why Balakot Was Picked to Strike Pak
1:22:52 - Why No Strikes Against Pakistan After 26/11 Attack
1:26:38 - Heading Congress Panel on National Security Strategy
1:31:46 - Agniveer Scheme
1:35:52 - Retired Service Members Joining Politics
1:38:12 - Uber-IAF Deal Repercussions
1:46:14 - Personal Data at Risk
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A few major tech companies are dominating the digital world and have significant influence in politics as well. Big Tech companies control many aspects of our lives, including markets, businesses, and public services. Is it a good idea to allow a few tech giants to monopolize our data?
Where does China stand in the tech race against the USA? Where does India stand in the global tech race, and what are its digital vulnerabilities? And what about modern warfare? How are drones changing the course of war and transforming how battles are fought? what is data privacy—and why is it important?
To answer these questions, the ANI podcast with Smita Prakash features Lt. Col. Pavithran Rajan, a former intelligence officer, academic, and tech entrepreneur.
He explains how technology is reshaping the battlefield, allowing countries to win wars without even entering the battlefield. He also discusses the role of artificial intelligence in modern warfare and emphasizes the need for India to protect its digital interests.
This is a must-watch podcast for anyone who thinks there’s nothing to hide and doesn’t understand why privacy matters for both individuals and businesses.
00:00 - Introduction
01:16 - Pager Attack in Lebanon
10:24 - China’s Supply Chain Strategy
15:36 - OSI Layers of Encryption
25:58 - Five Eyes' Response to Intel Threats
28:54 - Digital Policies of China & India
35:28 - Data Privacy in India
41:02 - Data Breaches in the USA
42:59 - India Under Surveillance
47:41 - Semiconductor Industry in India
51:19 - China–India Relations
56:16 - U.S. Dollar and SWIFT
59:21 - Why SWIFT Remains Indispensable
1:10:36 - Use of Cyber Technology in Wars
1:13:54 - The Rise of AI Apps
1:15:45 - India’s Position in the Cyber Power Ranking
1:24:36 - Quantum Cryptography
1:28:21 - Snowden Revelations
1:31:49 - Is Your Phone Listening to You?
1:44:48 - Hamas Attack on Israel
1:52:00 - What Should India Do Amid Global Wars?
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Social media has greatly transformed the skincare industry. People are constantly searching for the best sunscreen, ways to get rid of acne and pimples, and tips for flawless skin. This obsession with skincare is at an all-time high, especially among the youth.
In the latest episode of ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Delhi-NCR's top dermatologist, Dr. Ankur Sarin, joins to clear up common myths about skincare products and explain the difference between European and Indian beauty products.
Dr Sarin shares a simple three-step routine for healthy skin and discusses the effectiveness of traditional home remedies. He also highlights why teenagers might be experiencing hair loss, pointing to stress, weight issues, and environmental factors as common causes.
Watch this episode to learn more about skincare, hair care, and ways to manage hair loss and baldness.
00:00 – Introduction
01:00 – Most Asked Questions to Dermatologists
02:55 – Male Pattern Baldness
04:50 – Pigmentation
07:50 – When to Use Sunscreen
12:00 – Demand for Fair Skin
13:54 – How to Get Rid of Acne & Pimples
19:20 – What’s Best for Your Skin
21:40 – European vs. Indian Products
25:50 – How to Take Care of Your Skin & Body
30:54 – Male and Female Pattern Baldness Treatment
35:30 – Chemotherapy and Hair Loss
37:55 – 'Ghar Ke Nuskhe' for Skin & Hair Oiling
39:57 – True & False Segment
45:35 – This & That Segment
49:59 – Impact of Social Media on Choosing Skin Care
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Avinash Dharmadhikari is a renowned Indian bureaucrat, author, and educator, celebrated for his contributions to public service and youth empowerment. A former IAS officer from Maharashtra, Dharmadhikari resigned from his prestigious post in 1996, choosing to dedicate his career to educating and mentoring the next generation of civil service aspirants and social leaders. Known for his deep commitment to societal transformation, he founded the Chanakya Mandal Pariwar, an institution aimed at nurturing aspiring civil servants through a blend of values-based education and rigorous training. Dharmadhikari is also an accomplished writer, and his works include Aswastha Dashakanchi Diary, a popular Marathi book chronicling his journey and reflections on India's social and administrative challenges.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Avinash Dharmadhikari opens up about the challenging realities of the UPSC exams and shares why he left the civil services to focus on politics and education. Reflecting on his role in Anna Hazare's Anti-Corruption Movement, he discusses his subsequent disillusionment with the Aam Aadmi Party and later with the Shiv Sena. Dharmadhikari also gives his perspective on the current political landscape in Maharashtra, analyzing why the Mahayuti alliance struggled to create a more significant impact in the state in the 2024 General Elections.
In this candid conversation, Avinash Dharmadhikari further explores Vir Savarkar's role in India’s independence movement, and explains Savarkar's vision of Hindutva.
0:00 - Introduction
0:45 - Quitting Civil Services
6:22 - Contesting Elections
9:00 - Anna Hazare's Anti-Corruption Movement
14:30 - Corruption in UPSC Selection Process?
17:03 - Importance of 'Character Building' for UPSC Aspirants
21:40 - Disillusion with Shiv Sena
26:10 - Savarkar's Role in Indian Freedom Struggle
32:49 - Where Does Loyalty of Civil Servants Lie?
35:27 - Mahayuti's Poor Performance in 2024 Lok Sabha Polls
41:43 - Foreign Interference in 2024 General Elections?
44:30 - Indian Youth Disillusioned with Media & Governance?
47:10 - Increasing Tolerance for Corruption Among Politicians
51:13 - Flaws in Indian Democracy?
54:15 - Reservation Protests & Farmer Suicides in Maharashtra
59:00 - Importance of Rural Development Projects
1:00:43 - Rising Trend of Civil Servants Entering Politics
1:03:13 - Dark Side of UPSC Coaching Institutes
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Manisha Koirala is a renowned Nepali-Indian actress known for her exceptional talent and versatility in Hindi, Nepali, and South Indian cinema. Born in Kathmandu, she comes from a prominent Nepali political family. Manisha has delivered some powerful performances in iconic films like Bombay, 1942: A Love Story, Dil Se, and Khamoshi: The Musical. Known for her skill in portraying deep and complex characters, she returned to the spotlight with the OTT series Heeramandi, earning significant critical acclaim.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, veteran actress Manisha Koirala opens up about her journey in Bollywood, sharing behind-the-scenes stories from her acclaimed films such as 1942: A Love Story, Khamoshi, Dil Se, Bombay, and Heeramandi. She reflects on her experiences within the industry, discussing the ways Bollywood has evolved over the years.
A cancer survivor, Manisha speaks on her advocacy for cancer awareness, emphasizing the importance of timely treatment. She also shares her thoughts on spirituality and the central role of family in her life.
0:00 - Introduction
0:40 - The Cult of '1942: A Love Story'
5:25 - The Story Behind 'Khamoshi'
7:35 - Behind the Scenes of 'Heeramandi'
10:50 - How Bollywood Changed Over the Years
16:18 - The 'Bombay' Controversy
19:27 - The Original 'Dil Se' Plot
24:50 - The Making of 'Heeramandi'
30:00 - Battling with Cancer
37:12 - The Legacy of Koirala Family
45:10 - Navigating Through Bollywood
49:25 - Friendships & Relationships
51:33 - A Director's Actor
53:43 - Political Volatility in Nepal
58:22 - The Massacre of Nepal’s Royal Family
1:00:38 - Role of Spirituality
1:01:41 - Raising Cancer Awareness
1:05:17 - The Importance of Therapy
1:07:00 - Speaking Up on Women's Issues
1:09:38 - Nepal's Human Trafficking Crisis
1:10:50 - Mantra & Goals
1:11:46 - The Importance of Family
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Get ready for the much-awaited episode of the 'Real' Samosa Caucus!
Edition 4.0 is here and it's all about raw, uncensored, no-holds-barred discussions.
Joining the chat are:
Sushant Sareen, Senior Fellow at ORF
Tehseen Poonawalla, TV personality and political analyst
Anand Ranganathan, author and scientist
Abhijit Iyer-Mitra, Senior Fellow at the Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies
This episode dives into some heated topics, including:
The India-Canada spat over the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar
The rise of Khalistani elements under Trudeau’s watch
Did India send an agent to take out Khalistani separatist Pannun in the USA?
The panel also digs into why exit polls keep missing the mark on voter sentiment and Andhra CM Chandrababu Naidu's call for more babies—what's behind it? And much more.
Don't miss the witty banter in this episode!
00:00 - Introduction & Message to Viewers
03:14 - Samosa Caucus Returns
08:43 - Hamas Leader Yahya Sinwar Killing
15:40 - Israel-Iran War Escalation
16:45 - Impact of Cancel Culture
19:06 - Canada-India Diplomatic Crisis
27:14 - Canada Harbouring Criminals?
33:42 - U.S. Sheltering 'K-Backer' Pannun
36:54 - Did India Disown Vikas Yadav over 'Kill Pannun' plot?
46:39 - BRICS 2024 & India-China Relations
55:00 - Pakistan's Bid to Join BRICS
1:01:25 - Exit Polls' Flop Show
1:07:34 - Mainstream Media Losing Credibility?
1:15:34 - Ola's Business Model
1:23:38 - Samosa Caucus 5.0 in Goa?
1:25:04 - J&K Assembly Elections 2024
1:31:29 - Stalin Demands 'Tamil Name' for Kids
1:33:39 - Aging Population Issue in South India
1:40:34 - Inter-State Migration
1:50:11 - 'Batenge to Katenge' Row
2:06:14 - Uber's MOU with IAF
2:19:48 - Maharashtra Assembly Polls
2:28:14 - Why Congress Lost Haryana
2:31:34 - 'Flop' Exit Poll
2:32:47 - Favorite OTT Shows
2:38:14 - Luxury Apartments
2:43:52 - Resolutions for 2025
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In recent months, Jammu and Kashmir has seen a surge in attacks, with police encountering new strategies from terrorists. Who is fueling this renewed terror, and how can armed forces respond? To answer all these questions, we have former top cop Shesh Paul Vaid, who has witnessed the rise of militancy firsthand and the evolving landscape of J&K. He shares insights from his personal experiences, including surviving an attack, the release of Masood Azhar, and attributing recent violence to Pakistan’s influence.
Shesh Paul Vaid, a senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, has served as one of Jammu and Kashmir's most respected top cops. Known for his dedication and resilience, Vaid led the Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP) as Director General (DGP) during a critical period marked by heightened militancy and security challenges. His tenure saw numerous counter-insurgency operations aimed at restoring peace and stability in the region. He also worked to strengthen community policing initiatives to foster trust with local communities.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, former Jammu and Kashmir top cop Shesh Paul Vaid discusses the recent surge in terror attacks in the region. He shares insights into the terrorists' modus operandi and the strategies they use to incite violence in the Valley. Vaid also reflects on the release of Masood Azhar during his tenure, describing it as an embarrassing moment for the country. Additionally, he recounts a near-death experience when his convoy was ambushed by 17 terrorists, as well as the circumstances surrounding the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits.
00:00 - Introduction
00:45 - IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack
08:44 - Masood Azhar's Release
22:20 - Kidnapping of Rubaiya Sayeed
25:14 - 'First' Wave of Militancy in Kashmir
30:36 - Aftermath of Burhan Wani Killing
39:44 - Public Safety Act
42:44 - Operation All-Out in J&K
44:26 - Hanging of Afzal Guru
51:09 - Hurriyat hypocrisy
57:24 - When 17 Terrorists Attacked SP Vaid
1:04:54 - 'Special' Treatment for Syed Ali Shah Geelani
1:07:07 - Mast Gul's Escape from Charar-e-Sharief Shrine
1:10:32 - J&K Security Situation in the '90s
1:12:18 - Exodus of Kashmiri Pandits
1:22:34 - Contribution & Sacrifices of J&K Police
1:29:26 - Modus Operandi of Recent Terror Attacks in J&K
1:38:05 - J&K Assembly Elections 2024
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New Delhi-Ottawa relations have reached an all-time low after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged the involvement of Indian government officials and diplomats in the killing of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar—a figure who was designated as a terrorist in India and placed on Canada’s no-fly list.
Both countries have since expelled top envoys and other diplomats as tensions over Nijjar's killing escalate. Trudeau accused India of interfering in Canada’s sovereignty, while India dismissed his claims as baseless and absurd.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Sanjay Kumar Verma, the recalled Indian High Commissioner to Canada, shares his perspective on Canada’s handling of Sikh extremist elements, which he believes is influenced by vote-bank politics.
Verma also explains why Trudeau has refrained from taking action against Khalistani figures who are wanted in India for serious crimes. He shares personal accounts of the challenges he and his family faced in Canada. Verma stresses that a small group of Khalistani elements has hijacked the narrative and that the majority of Sikhs do not support the Khalistan movement.
Watch this episode to understand how the Canadian government addresses Khalistani extremism and why some believe it has given them a free hand.
0:00 - Coming Up
1:12 - Introduction
2:02 - India-Canada Diplomatic Row
8:40 - What Canadians Think of India
12:00 - Nijjar Killing Probe
16:44 - Bishnoi Gang Link to Nijjar Killing
21:07 - Trudeau's Allegations Against New Delhi
23:56 - MEA's Strong Response to Canada
27:00 - Threats & Attacks against Envoy Sanjay Verma
35:34 - Attacks on Diplomats in Western Countries
39:47 - Indian Journalists Accused of Foreign Interference
45:22 - Lawrence Bishnoi
51:00 - Trudeau Harbouring Khalistani Elements
55:33 - 'Fake' Asylum Claims in Canada
59:06 - India: A 'Rogue' Nation?
1:01:30 - Will India-Canada Ties Improve?
1:04:05 - Pakistan-Khalistan Ties?
1:05:05 - What's Next for Envoy Sanjay Verma
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Annu Kapoor is an entertainer who has worn many hats—actor, singer, director, producer, radio jockey, and television presenter—earning immense respect and recognition worldwide. He became a household name through iconic television shows like Antakshari and Wheel Smart Srimati.
Known for speaking his mind, Annu Kapoor has appeared in over 100 films and numerous television shows. He has been honoured with two National Film Awards, a Filmfare Award, and two Indian Television Academy Awards.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Annu Kapoor delves into his thoughts on nationalism. He expresses his belief that most Indians do not truly love their country and also opens up on atheism.
Kapoor shares anecdotes about legends from the film industry, including a vivid recount of Shabana Azmi and Javed Akhtar’s wedding, and reflects on a spat with Amitabh Bachchan. He also reveals an intriguing episode from the sets of 7 Khoon Maaf, alleging that Priyanka Chopra refused to kiss him because he wasn’t a 'hero.'
Tune in to this episode as Kapoor shares his flair for 'shayari' and performs a 300-year-old rap in his signature style.
00:00 - Introduction
01:44 - Upcoming projects
04:37 - Early life struggles
16:42 - Patriotism vs. Nationalism
21:37 - Early days in Bollywood
33:10 - Why he avoids watching films & news
34:33 - National Awards
37:05 - Lessons from the Bhagavad Gita
39:19 - True meaning of 'Deshbhakti'
43:59 - Publicity stunts
46:30 - Punctuality & Discipline
49:02 - Why was Wheel Smart Srimati scrapped?
53:40 - Learning discipline from Islam
55:27 - Brihadaranyaka Upanishad teachings
58:52 - Love, religion, and honour killings
1:02:14 - The story of 'Bharat'
1:04:34 - Annu 'Google' Kapoor
1:10:14 - Relationship with parents
1:13:48 - 'Kiss' controversy with Priyanka Chopra
1:20:14 - Shabana Azmi & Javed Akhtar's wedding
1:22:14 - Darr shoot
1:25:14 - Story behind India's independence
1:29:58 - World's 'oldest' rap song
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Krishnamurthy Venkata Subramanian served as the 17th Chief Economic Adviser to the Government of India from 2018 to 2021, becoming the youngest to hold this prestigious position.Subramanian's tenure as the Chief Economic Adviser was marked by his contributions to shaping India's economic policies during crucial years, including the Covid-19 pandemic. He is now India's Executive Director at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), where he continues to represent India on global economic matters.In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Prof. Subramanian delves into the critical role of wealth creators in driving India’s economic progress, explaining why they are the backbone of a thriving economy. He emphasizes the importance of balancing economic policies to encourage entrepreneurship while also addressing income inequality.Subramanian doesn’t shy away from discussing the systemic challenges facing the country, including the pressing need for judicial reforms to address backlogs that hamper business operations and economic efficiency. He also touches on the impact of India's increasing digital transactions on economic transparency and efficiency. Additionally, he discusses how spirituality and mindfulness can serve as tools for personal growth, especially in the fast-paced world of economics.00:00 - Introduction01:00 - India @100 Book05:41 - India's Projected Economic Growth10:35 - Wealth Creators15:25 - Slow Growth of Small Businesses25:03 - India's Agricultural Policies32:55 - Importance of Economic Reforms41:27 - Signs of a Good Economy47:23 - The Willful Defaulter Phenomenon51:45 - Need for Judicial Reforms1:00:02 - India's Digital Boom1:06:29 - Lessons from Demonetisation1:11:32 - India's Job Market1:18:25 - Responsibility of State Govts. in Job Creation1:21:35 - The Politics of Freebies1:34:22 - Snap Reaction Segment1:45:39 - Remembers His Father & Family1:57:04 - Economic Challenges During the Pandemic2:05:39 - Spirituality & Mindfulness2:08:45 - Importance of Reading
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John Chambers is the Chairman of the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) and the former CEO of Cisco. Under his leadership, Cisco became one of the world’s largest and most successful technology companies.
Dr. Mukesh Aghi is the President and CEO of USISPF. He works closely with business and government leaders in both the U.S. and India to promote trade and strengthen ties between the two nations.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, the guests discuss the evolution of India-U.S. relations over the past 15 years. John Chambers expresses strong confidence in India, saying that this decade and century belong to New Delhi. Dr. Mukesh Aghi shares a similar view, noting that the ties between India and the U.S. are on an upward trajectory, unaffected by changes in political leadership.
They also address the recent tensions between India and Canada over the Khalistan issue and its potential impact on businesses and students. Both guests praise Prime Minister Modi for fostering an environment in which entrepreneurship and startups have flourished in the past decade.
00:00 - Introduction
00:44 - India’s Century
03:49 - India: Then vs. Now
04:55 - India-Canada Spat
10:00 - U.S. Presidential Election
12:08 - India vs. China Economy
14:10 - India: A Tough Negotiator
16:54 - The Future of AI
20:15 - U.S.-China Tensions
22:30 - Middle East Conflict
25:00 - Tariffs & Migration in the USA
29:34 - India’s Chip Ambitions
33:34 - Business Prospects in India
37:31 - Indian vs. U.S. Investors
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Conrad Sangma is the Chief Minister of Meghalaya and a leader of the National People's Party (NPP). He began his political career as a campaign manager for his father, P.A. Sangma, a former Cabinet minister. After serving as an MLA and the Opposition Leader, he became the NPP President in 2016. Sangma was first elected Chief Minister in 2018 and was re-elected in 2023.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, CM Conrad Sangma discusses his alliance with the BJP, despite having the numbers to run the government independently. He addresses the beef ban issue, stating that people should not interfere with others' eating habits.
He also talks about the border dispute between Assam and Meghalaya in Mukroh. Further, Meghalaya CM Sangma shares his thoughts on the Uniform Civil Code and its potential impact on the region. He also discusses the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), the National Register of Citizens (NRC), and One Nation, One Election.
He explains Meghalaya's economy and a government lottery scheme designed to increase revenue. Additionally, he highlights the drug problem in the Northeast and how tourism can contribute to economic growth. He also compares the Look East policy, which was upgraded to the Act East policy in 2014 by the Modi government.
00:00 - Introduction
01:25 - Legacy of P.A. Sangma
02:55 - Congress sidelined P.A. Sangma?
08:28 - Formation of NPP
11:12 - BJP-NPP Alliance
15:14 - Beef Ban Row
20:25 - Assam-Meghalaya Border Dispute
26:50 - UCC
28:50 - CAA-NRC Impact in NE States
31:17 - One Nation, One Election
33:36 - NPP to Expand in Other States?
35:05 - UPA's Neglect of the NE
40:04 - Bangladesh Crisis: Security Risks for Meghalaya
43:20 - Meghalaya's Economy
47:36 - Government Lottery Scheme
53:38 - Northeast's Drug Problem
1:02:05 - Tourism in Meghalaya
1:10:28 - Manipur Crisis Impact on Meghalaya
1:15:10 - Snap Reaction
1:33:25 - CM 'Cool'
- Näytä enemmän
