Episodes

  • 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

  • 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

  • Missing episodes?

    Click here to refresh the feed.

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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?

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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'

  • Revant Himatsingka is on a mission to encourage Indians to read food labels. His goal is to educate people about what they're consuming and to protect them from 'misleading' marketing tactics. By challenging FMCG giants, he aims to improve the quality of food products available in India.

    Originally from Kolkata, Revant moved to New York to study finance. He later earned an MBA from Wharton and completed a course in nutrition.

    In the latest episode of the ANI podcast with Smita Prakash, Revant explains his decision to return to India to raise awareness about the importance of reading food labels before making purchases. He has initiated the campaign 'Label Padhega India' to inform people about the effects of processed and packaged foods on their health.

    He also discusses what the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) can do to improve public awareness. Revant's mission is to spark a health revolution in India by revealing how FMCG companies often sell substandard products domestically while providing higher-quality goods in European markets. Additionally, he shares personal anecdotes about the sacrifices he is making in his battle against these large corporations.

    00:00 - Introduction

    00:52 - Conscious Capitalism Meaning

    02:08 - What is FMCG?

    08:02 - 'Label Padhega India' Campaign

    11:38 - Food Labels

    26:20 - Baby Food in India vs. Europe

    31:14 - Biscuits vs. Chocolates

    41:18 - India: Food 'Dumping Ground'

    46:20 - India vs. Singapore: Food Product Regulations

    47:57 - What should FSSAI do?

    55:13 - How to Read Food Labels

    58:28 - Health Literacy in India

    1:10:23 - Frozen Dessert vs. Ice Cream

    1:14:28 - Choosing Food Products

    1:25:02 - Next Goal

  • It has been one year since Hamas launched a significant attack against Israel, which was one of the deadliest incidents in recent history. Over 1000 were killed, and over 250 people were taken hostage. In response, Israel initiated ground operations in Gaza, resulting in hundreds of casualties and continuing strikes.

    Amid this conflict, Israel has opened two new fronts in the war. They have targeted the entire Hezbollah leadership, including its chief, Hassan Nasrallah. This move has provoked a strong reaction from Iran, which launched over 180 missiles toward Israel.

    How Israel will respond and whether it will consider attacking Iran’s oil and nuclear facilities. The outcome of these events could significantly alter the landscape of the Middle East.

    In this episode of the ANI podcast with Smita Prakash, we are joined by Lt. Gen. Raj Shukla (Retd.), former General Officer Commanding of the Army Training Command and an expert in counter-insurgency operations, along with Lt. Col. Pavithran Rajan, a former intelligence operative, academician, and tech entrepreneur.

    They discuss whether the U.S. will support Israel in attacking Iranian facilities and what lessons India can learn from the Israel-Iran conflict. They also delve into Israel's unique Pager Attack and how AI is transforming modern warfare. They also talk about the role of Russia and China in the Middle East.

    00:00 - Introduction

    02:35 - Israel’s 3-Front War

    04:35 - Israel's Pager Attack

    11:25 - Killing of Hassan Nasrallah

    20:50 - Russia’s Role in the Middle East

    30:25 - Persian Civilization

    37:32 - China’s Stand on the Israel War

    41:42 - China vs. Taiwan

    44:39 - Regime Change in Iran

    59:17 - India's Role in the Middle East

    1:02:50 - How AI is Changing Warfare

    1:10:43 - What is AI Assassination

    1:20:45 - Weaponization of Social Media

    1:26:24 - Private Players in Defence Sector

    1:30:44 - Lessons for India

    1:40:10 - China Leading in Manufacturing

    1:44:54 - Should India Embrace AI?

  • The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections are taking place for the first time in a decade, following the abrogation of Article 370. What role will Jammu play—can it be a kingmaker in government formation? How do the people of Jammu feel about the abrogation of Article 370? Is there a possibility for J&K to have a Hindu Chief Minister?

    In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, we are joined by two seasoned journalists from Jammu, Manoj Kaul and Arun Joshi, who have extensively covered the region for decades.

    They predict an edge for the National Conference (NC), forecasting a hung assembly where government formation is unlikely without the support of Congress or NC. The journalists highlight how Jammu can play a key role as a kingmaker in the upcoming elections.

    They discuss the issue of restoring statehood, which remains a major concern for voters. Additionally, the two journalists examine the participation of former Jamaat leaders in these elections and consider the potential success of Engineer Rashid's party in the J&K polls. Watch the episode for an in-depth discussion on the future of Jammu and Kashmir politics.

    00:00 - Introduction

    00:50 - J&K Polls: Now vs Before

    09:11 - Jamaat Factor in J&K Polls

    14:54 - Engineer Rashid's Role

    24:27 - Jammu Being Neglected

    30:13 - Altaf Bukhari & Ghulam Nabi Azad

    35:36 - Will BJP Sweep Jammu?

    43:40 - Reporting on J&K Polls

    48:58 - Reporting on Stone Pelting

    52:24 - Jammu vs. Kashmir Development

    57:27 - Is Jammu a Kingmaker?

    1:02:56 - Impact in Jammu: Modi vs. Rahul

    1:09:16 - Dynasties in J&K Politics

    1:13:33 - Ethnic Communities in J&K

    1:17:48 - Post-Poll Alliances

    1:22:15 - Article 370 in Jammu

    1:25:55 - Outsiders in J&K Polls

    1:30:43 - Jammu Statehood

  • Rasheed Kidwai is a senior journalist, political analyst, and author known for his insights into Indian politics and the Congress party. He has written extensively about the Indian political system and is the author of notable books like 24 Akbar Road. Kidwai regularly contributes to national media outlets and appears on prime-time debates for various news channels.

    Yana Mir is a journalist and political commentator from Jammu and Kashmir, known for her bold views on the abrogation of Article 370 and how it has changed the valley.

    In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, journalists Rasheed Kidwai and Yana Mir discuss the assembly elections in Haryana and Jammu & Kashmir. Kidwai highlights the anti-incumbency and local dissatisfaction with BJP leaders in Haryana. He also discusses the rift between Hooda and Selja and whether it could be a spoiler for the Congress party in the Haryana polls.

    Yana Mir talks about the political scene in Kashmir, noting how locals are growing disillusioned with the Abdullah and Mufti dynasties. She discusses the rise of independent candidates in the valley and how Engineer Rashid is attracting voters’ attention.

    They also highlight the media's influence in shaping narratives and the importance of these elections for the BJP and its allies in NDA 3.0.

    00:00 – Introduction

    01:53 – Haryana & J-K Polls

    08:57 – Independent Candidates in J&K Polls

    12:10 – Crowded J&K Poll Fray

    16:53 – NC vs PDP Battle

    20:30 – Corruption Issue in Polls

    23:22 – The Modi Factor in J&K Polls

    29:52 – Will BJP Sweep Jammu?

    32:12 – Yana's Tweets Controversy

    38:50 – Role of Media in Elections

    47:38 – Foreign Diplomats' Visit to J&K

    52:00 – People Upset with BJP in J&K?

    53:32 – Congress' Prospects in J&K

    58:07 – Rahul vs. Modi in Popularity

    1:04:58 – Separatists in J&K Polls

    1:09:17 – Labeling Media as the Villain

    1:12:22 – Hindu-Muslim Issues in Polls

    1:14:42 – 'Samvidhan Badal Denge' Row

    1:22:52 – Is Media Still Powerful in India?

    1:25:52 – Can AAP Spring a Surprise in Haryana?

    1:27:52 – The Next CM of Jammu & Kashmir

    1:31:43 – Impact of Election Results on NDA 3.0