ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash

Lieutenant General K.J.S. ‘Tiny’ Dhillon is the former Director General of the Defence Intelligence Agency and has commanded the strategically important 15 Corps in Kashmir. Air Marshal Sanjeev Kapoor is the former Commandant of the National Defence Academy and has extensive experience in air operations, training and strategic affairs. Together, they have written Nobody’s War, Everybody’s War.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, they discuss the FlyDubai incident, the radicalisation of professionals and how drones are changing modern warfare. They also explain what India can learn from the Iran war, China’s growing military power, threats to India’s energy security and why the country must strengthen its indigenous defence manufacturing.

*Timestamps*

00:00 – Intro

03:10 – FlyDubai Incident

07:44 – Brave Passengers

11:19 – Civilian Bravery

18:51 – Hijack Codes

23:56 – Teaching Children Safety

30:04 – Drone Warfare

35:05 – More Drones for India?

37:58 – Iran’s War Preparations

40:52 – US War Goals

45:53 – Fighting Terrorism

46:59 – Drones vs Soldiers

49:55 – Op Sindoor & Defence Industry

53:58 – China Arms Pakistan

55:08 – Maritime Chokepoints

56:34 – Oil & Gulf Security

58:15 – China Gains from War?

59:19 – War Room Decisions

1:06:39 – India Ready for Next Crisis?

1:07:50 – India’s Economic Challenges

1:11:16 – India–China & Third Parties

1:17:38 – India’s Military Power

1:20:14 – Politics & National Security

1:24:03 – Why They Wrote the Book

1:25:49 – Advice for Youth

1:30:35 – Manufacturing in India

1:33:42 – Closing Remarks

Nimrat Kaur is an actor known for her performances in The Lunchbox, Airlift, Dasvi, Homeland and The Family Man. She has worked in both Indian cinema and international television, playing a wide range of roles, from a lonely housewife to a spy.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, she talks about her journey from modelling to films, and why she refused to be typecast after The Lunchbox. She also opens up about losing her father to terrorism in Kashmir, her mother’s strength, working in Hollywood, social media pressure and her life away from the screen.

00:00 – Introduction

01:22 – Success After The Lunchbox

04:20 – How Homeland Happened

05:27 – Avoiding Typecasting

10:35 – Working with Irrfan Khan

13:14 – Being Raised by a Single Mother

15:53 – Her Father’s Kidnapping and Assassination

20:01 – Filming Homeland

24:38 – Indian vs International Film Sets

26:31 – Paparazzi and Social Media

31:14 – PR Agencies

34:15 – Breaking the ‘Sanskari’ Image

40:00 – Growing Up in a Military Family

41:45 – Do Men Feel Intimidated by Thinking Actresses?

43:43 – Working with Amitabh Bachchan

45:42 – Spirituality, Solitude and Staying Grounded

49:22 – Dealing with Impostor Syndrome

52:14 – Artificial Intelligence in Filmmaking

54:24 – Body Image and Changing Perceptions

55:19 – Playing a Spy in The Family Man

55:38 – Akshay Kumar and On-Set Prank Stories

58:23 – Friendships in the Film Industry

1:00:08 – Auditions and Screen Tests

1:02:20 – Indian Actors and Hollywood

1:04:36 – Dhurandhar and Authentic Spy Films

1:09:50 – Role Models and Her Acting Dream

1:11:56 – Relationships and Staying Authentic

1:14:50 – Conclusion

Vivek Agrawal is a crime author and investigative journalist who has spent more than three decades reporting on crime, terrorism, organised crime and national security. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, he takes us inside Mumbai’s underworld, its rivalries, networks and connections with the city’s business and film circles.

He also talks about Dawood Ibrahim and Chhota Rajan, the relationship between the underworld and Bollywood, and how extortion and traditional criminal networks evolved into real estate and business operations.

*Timestamps*

0:00 – Introduction

1:22 – Chhota Rajan’s Origin Story

6:24 – Haji Mastan, Karim Lala & Varadarajan Mudaliar

11:05 – Rise of Dawood Ibrahim

20:35 – Chhota Rajan vs Dawood

30:04 – Arun Gawli-Dawood Gang War

32:11 – 1993 Bombay Bombings

47:48 – Sanjay Dutt’s TADA Case

53:00 – Crime Reporting

56:00 – Dawood’s Portrayal in Bollywood

1:00:06 – D-Company at Present

1:01:23 – Karachi Module Uncovered

1:02:58 – Ajit Doval’s Covert Operations

1:07:21 – If Dawood Returns, Who Gets Exposed?

Biswajit Chatterjee is an actor who has spent seven decades in the Bombay film industry.
In the 1960s, Biswajit became one of Hindi cinema’s defining romantic leads. With his effortless charm and trademark smile, he starred in films such as Bees Saal Baad, Kohra, Mere Sanam, Night in London, April Fool and Kismat.
His films gave us enduring songs, including “Aap Yun Hi Agar Humse Milte Rahe” and “Kajra Mohabbat Wala.”
At 89, he sits down with Smita Prakash on the ANI Podcast to look back on his career, his life and his loves.

Timestamps
0:00 – Introduction
3:26 – Dharmendra’s Last Film
8:42 – Playing Different Roles
11:27 – Meeting Guru Dutt
16:07 – First Bollywood Film
18:50 – Guidance From Uttam Kumar
21:08 – Evergreen Songs
21:31 – Working With Waheeda Rehman
22:52 – Entering Bollywood
27:44 – Raaj Kumar Stories
31:45 – Acting With Kishore Kumar
33:12 – Forgotten Actors of Yesteryear
40:45 – The 70s and the Fall of Romantic Heroes
47:14 – Working With Mumtaz and Pran
49:34 – Dealing With Fame
49:44 – Kiss Controversy With Rekha
50:56 – Music Journey
53:20 – Dev Anand’s Son’s Debut Film
54:14 – Sunil Dutt’s ‘Rocky’
55:20 – Bangladesh Documentary
58:40 – His Son Prosenjit Chatterjee
59:31 – Meeting Shah Rukh Khan
1:02:03 – Bengali Film Industry vs Bollywood
1:07:14 – K. Asif, Bimal Roy and ‘Madhumati’
1:11:18 – Making Films Today

Dr Vikram Sampath is an author and historian known for his books on V.D. Savarkar, Tipu Sultan and Gauhar Jaan, among others. He is the founder of the Foundation for Indian Historical and Cultural Research and the co-founder and director of Naav AI, which uses artificial intelligence to bridge language barriers.

In this edition of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Dr Sampath questions why India’s history remains centred around Delhi and discusses how NCERT textbooks have shaped our understanding of the past. He speaks about Mahatma Gandhi, Veer Savarkar and Tipu Sultan, and challenges the influence of Leftist historians on India’s historical narrative.

This episode explores how India can reclaim and rewrite its history.

00:00 – Introduction

1:15 – History Textbooks in India

4:51 – Cholas, Ahoms and Marathas

10:09 – Narrative of Indian History

14:36 – India’s Cultural Geography

18:18 – Historical Research Projects

23:24 – Bias in Historical Writing

29:37 – Mahatma Gandhi’s Legacy

35:23 – Ancient Texts & Language Barriers

40:36 – History of Buddhism

52:21 – Religious Conversion

58:00 – Forgotten Women in Indian History

1:04:12 – Kashmir’s Historical Documentation

1:10:51 – Portrayal of History in Movies

1:16:10 – Future of History Education

1:25:19 – India’s Musical Heritage

Mandakini is an actress best known for her role in Raj Kapoor’s iconic film Ram Teri Ganga Maili. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, she discusses working with Raj Kapoor and Rajiv Kapoor, her controversial scenes and how she got her screen name. She also addresses her rumoured links with Dawood Ibrahim, the gunshot controversy and why she eventually quit films.

0:00 – Introduction

0:51 – Story Behind 'Ram Teri Ganga Maili'

9:53 – Working With Raj Kapoor

11:04 – From Yasmeen to Mandakini

12:41 – Working With Rajiv Kapoor

14:02 – Controversial Scenes

18:16 – Raj Kapoor’s Vision

21:53 – Bollywood: Then vs Now

25:16 – Rumoured Links to Dawood

28:07 – Performing Live Shows Abroad

31:48 – Gunshot Controversy

35:17 – Why Mandakini Quit Films

Manu Joseph is a journalist, columnist, novelist and screenwriter known for his sharp and often provocative observations on Indian society. He is the author of 'Why the Poor Don’t Kill Us' and the creator of the Netflix series 'Decoupled'.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, he discusses India’s broken cities, the jobs crisis facing Gen Z, and the decline of civic sense. He also speaks about Noida versus Gurugram, Vijay’s rise in Tamil Nadu politics, freedom of expression, privilege, merit and why India “looks so poor”.

0:00 – Introduction

1:13 – Life in Gurugram

2:33 – Village–City Divide

3:55 – Civic Order vs Social Order

5:47 – Why India Looks So Poor

6:57 – Swanky Airports and Broken Cities

10:51 – India’s Obsession With Useless Issues

14:24 – Leaving Gurugram

18:22 – Bengaluru Has Become a Hellhole

19:36 – Why Indian Cities Are Unliveable

22:30 – Is Goa India’s Most Cosmopolitan Place?

29:30 – What’s Wrong With Kerala?

33:42 – Kerala’s Healthcare

35:58 – Kerala Mothers

40:06 – Indian Parents and Education

47:19 – North India vs South India

52:51 – Servility, Saluting and Class in India

55:10 – How Indians Treat Salespeople

55:48 – How Indians Treat Waiters

1:02:59 – Why the Poor Don’t Kill Us

1:03:22 – The Attention-Span Crisis

1:08:35 – Cockroach Janata Party

1:13:11 – Why Gen Z Is Screwed by Equality

1:13:52 – India’s Employability Crisis

1:26:53 – Unemployment Among Educated Women

1:31:54 – Exam Leaks and Student Protests

1:35:42 – Freedom of Expression in India

1:40:25 – “Vijay Was My Classmate”

1:42:57 – Mani Ratnam and Tamil Cinema

1:44:45 – Vijay’s Political Rise

1:55:13 – Caste and Public Toilets

1:59:46 – Manu Joseph’s Stand-Up Film

2:04:48 – Left-Wing vs Right-Wing Politics

2:09:11 – Why Ancient History Is Unreliable

2:12:43 – Leaving Journalism and Writing Fiction

2:15:50 – His Take on ‘Godi Media’

Samrat Choudhary is the first BJP leader to serve as the Chief Minister of Bihar. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, he speaks about the Bankipur election result, Prashant Kishor, migration and jobs in the state. He also discusses the alcohol ban, reservation, infrastructure, the revival of sugar mills, and what his government plans to do next.

00:00 – Introduction

00:36 – Bihar Floods

4:08 – Water Treaty with Bangladesh

11:05 – Women’s Employment Scheme

17:23 – Jobs in Bihar

23:31 – Bihar’s Education System

27:29 – Skill Development

31:48 – Migration

35:50 – Alcohol Ban

36:50 – NDA Alliance

43:00 – BJP’s Bankipur Defeat

50:15 – Reservation

53:40 – Road and Bridge Collapses

Rasika Dugal is known for her performances in films and streaming series such as Mirzapur, Delhi Crime, Manto, Qissa and Out of Love. A graduate of the Film and Television Institute of India, she is best known for playing Beena Tripathi in Mirzapur, a role that brought her widespread recognition.

In this ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Dugal discusses why she initially feared she was not right for Mirzapur and shares her experience of working with Pankaj Tripathi and Kulbhushan Kharbanda. She also remembers Irrfan Khan and explains what he taught her about being a good co-actor. Dugal speaks about how streaming platforms have transformed her career, the challenges women-led stories face, and the patriarchal expectations placed on women in the entertainment industry.

*Timestamps*

0:00 – Introduction

0:34 – Acting Style

3:05 – Family's Reaction to Acting

4:12 – Moving to Mumbai

6:58 – Studying at FTII

9:49 – Beena Tripathi in Mirzapur

15:07 – Intimate Scenes in Mirzapur

22:17 – Working With Kulbhushan Kharbanda

26:28 – Role in Delhi Crime

29:03 – Long-Form Storytelling

31:51 – Working With Irrfan Khan

34:15 – Working in Manto

37:25 – Scrutiny on Women Actors

42:17 – Importance of Small Details

44:11 – Violence in Mirzapur and Delhi Crime

46:09 – Creative Freedom on Sets

52:29 – Beena Tripathi’s Revenge in Mirzapur

54:49 – Working With Saif Ali Khan

59:07 – Being an Outsider

1:03:07 – Women’s Stories in Indian Cinema

1:04:13 – Working With Male and Female Directors

1:09:07 – How AI Can Help Filmmakers

1:12:43 – Conclusion

Lobsang Sangay served as the democratically elected Sikyong, or President of the Central Tibetan Administration, from 2011 to 2021. He became its top political leader after the Dalai Lama gave up his political authority. Born in 1968, Sangay grew up in a Tibetan refugee settlement near Darjeeling, India. He studied at Delhi University and Harvard Law School before becoming an American citizen.

In this ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Sangay discusses the Nepal–Tibet floods and questions why China failed to issue a timely warning that could have saved hundreds of lives. He also alleges that Beijing censored videos and controlled the information coming out of Tibet. Sangay also speaks about Xi Jinping’s health, the purges within the PLA, China’s plans for Tibet, the Dalai Lama’s succession and the risk of China weaponising water.

0:00 – Introduction

1:34 – Tibet–Nepal Flash Floods

2:24 – Internet Shutdown in Tibet

4:17 – Could China Have Warned Nepal?

6:51 – Why China Is Hiding the Truth

9:02 – The Real Death Toll in Tibet

10:58 – China Blocks Journalists and Scientists

12:18 – Melting Glaciers and 2030 Warning

15:06 – Dams, Earthquakes and AI Data Centres

23:51 – Nepal’s Rescue Efforts

28:12 – China’s Information-Control Playbook

30:16 – International Water-Sharing Laws

34:38 – China’s Mega-Dam on Brahmaputra

36:52 – India–China Ties and Tibet

39:17 – China’s Claims Over Arunachal

43:15 – Purge of PLA Generals

46:00 – Xi Jinping’s Health

48:23 – Xi Jinping’s Succession Problem

52:12 – China’s Ethnic Unity Law

56:12 – Chinese Police Station

58:31 – Dalai Lama’s Succession

1:02:32 – Will There Be Two Dalai Lamas?

1:12:17 – Chinese Pressure on Nepal

1:14:59 – Tibet’s Future

1:22:29 – Nepal Rejects Foreign Rescue Teams

1:25:27 – The Human and Economic Cost

1:27:05 – Conclusion

Baba Ramdev is a yoga guru turned businessman, known for taking yoga into millions of homes in India and around the world. He runs Patanjali, an Indian consumer goods company that competes with major FMCG giants. Baba Ramdev also frequently makes headlines for his views on Hinduism, politics and national issues.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Baba Ramdev explains his idea of a Hindu Rashtra, responds to criticism over becoming a businessman, shares his views on the performance of the Modi government, and talks about how he sees Gen Z and protests in India.

0:00 – Introduction

1:55 – Hindu Rashtra

7:30 – Religion and Conversion

18:19 – Youth Protests and Unemployment

25:00 – India Against Corruption and CJP

28:29 – Gen Z and a Changing India

33:57 – Black Money and Corruption

36:00 – Modi Government’s Report Card

44:39 – Youth’s Expectations from Modi

49:36 – Yoga Guru Turned Businessman

53:06 – Daily Routine

54:22 – Patanjali Products and Legal Battles

1:00:14 – Ayurveda vs Allopathy

1:04:28 – Rahul Gandhi

1:05:36 – Business Advice

1:09:31 – A Caste-Free India

1:13:48 – Gurukuls, Youth and Addiction

1:19:13 – Free Speech and Godi Media

1:22:38 – Deep State

1:27:46 – Succession Plan

1:29:46 – Ramdev’s Legacy

1:32:29 – Sings a Song

1:34:34 – Conclusion

Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra is a former fighter pilot who served in the Indian Air Force for more than 39 years. In January 2025, he took charge of the Western Air Command, one of the IAF’s most important operational commands. Just months later, he led the command during Operation Sindoor.

In this edition of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Air Marshal Mishra explains how India blinded Pakistan during Operation Sindoor and achieved air superiority, gaining the ability to strike anywhere inside Pakistan.

He also speaks about the operational freedom given to the Indian Air Force and the role of women pilots in striking terror hubs in Pakistan. The conversation also covers drones, indigenous weapons and whether India is ready for Operation Sindoor 2.0.

00:00 – Introduction

01:36 – IAF’s Planning for Op Sindoor

06:16 – IAF’s Precision Strikes

11:37 – Op Sindoor’s Target Selection

17:21 – Women Pilots in Op Sindoor

21:25 – Mental Makeup of IAF Pilots

28:09 – Decision-Making Behind Op Sindoor

32:44 – Psyche of Pakistan’s Military

39:00 – IAF’s 314-km S-400 Strike

45:42 – Blinding Pakistan’s Air Defences

54:30 – PM Modi’s Adampur Visit

58:27 – IAF’s Core Team for Op Sindoor

1:03:48 – BrahMos

1:08:06 – Drone Warfare

1:18:37 – Operation Safed Sagar

1:29:58 – Pakistan’s Attempts to Find S-400

1:29:58 – Narrative Warfare

1:42:26 – Track 2 Diplomacy

IAS Rajit Punhani is the CEO of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the organisation responsible for setting food-safety standards and regulating the country’s food industry.

In this edition of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Punhani explains what the FSSAI mark on a product actually means and why it does not mean that every product has been tested or certified by the regulator.

He addresses concerns surrounding fake paneer, misleading food labels, excessive sugar in packaged drinks and baby food, palm oil, synthetic colours, protein supplements and ultra-processed food.

Timestamps

0:00 – Introduction

1:29 – What FSSAI Logo Means

8:31 – Misleading Food Labels

14:14 – Drinks in Europe vs India

20:57 – Palm Oil Reality

25:27 – Sugar in Baby Food

30:04 – Indian Thali

32:54 – Nutrition Labels

37:05 – ‘Zero Sugar’ Meaning

39:36 – Food Industry Lobbying

42:54 – Fake Paneer and Food Adulteration

50:08 – Quick-Commerce Apps

53:58 – Dark Stores and Cloud Kitchens

58:17 – Street Food and Reused Cooking Oil

1:00:27 – Shortage of Food Safety Officers

1:04:16 – Food Recalls and Unsafe Products

1:08:10 – Protein Supplements

1:10:43 – Ultra-Processed Food

1:14:06 – Synthetic Colours in Food

1:16:53 – How Consumers Can File a Complaint

1:21:10 – Conclusion

Sanjeev Sanyal is a historian, economist and author. He currently serves as a member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister of India.

In this edition of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, he explains why India’s education system is failing its youth and why Indian degrees no longer guarantee jobs. He also speaks about India’s large population, the future of the economy, the falling rupee, AI and income tax.

The podcast also explores the story behind INSV Kaundinya and India’s forgotten maritime and civilisational history.

Timestamps

0:00 – Introduction

1:00 – India's Education System

4:28 – How China Conducts Exams

9:36 – Youth Unemployment

25:16 – Theory vs Real-World Skills

29:04 – India's Economic Outlook

32:01 – India's Private Investments

36:08 – GDP Growth vs Consumption Gap

39:22 – Foreign Media Narratives

47:47 – India-US Trade Deal

51:03 – Fall of the Rupee

57:35 – India's Growth Story

1:02:43 – Are Indians Overtaxed?

1:05:47 – Global Birth Rate Crisis

1:17:43 – INSV Kaundinya

1:25:21 – Indian History

1:29:27 – What's Next for Sanyal?

Stepping out of the ANI Podcast Studio, The ‘Real’ Samosa Caucus is back with Edition 9.0, Part 2, this time from Dorabjee & Sons in Pune.

The 150-year-old Parsi restaurant has been serving generations of Punekars and is now run by the fifth generation of the Dorabjee family.

Joining the podcast 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

Darius Dorabjee

Dallas Dorabjee

In this episode, the panel talks about how the Parsis made India their home, the evolution of Parsi food and culture, and what it takes to carry forward a 150-year-old restaurant legacy.

Trade Crypto, Gold, Silver and US Stock Tokens in INR! Download app to get 10% off in Fees: https://deltaexchange.onelink.me/DIpL/zb5g0nh3

Delta Exchange is India's leading Crypto Exchange, fully compliant and requiring only INR to trade Crypto.

0:00 – Introduction

0:34 – History of Dorabjee & Sons

1:50 – Parsi Quirkiness

3:49 – Parsi Food

6:29 – Parsi Families and Marriage

15:06 – What Independence Day Means

24:21 – Exploring Parsi Food

28:27 – Parsi Traditions and Attire

32:50 – Iconic Parsi Dishes

33:17 – Why Dorabjee & Sons Never Expanded

35:48 – How Much Money Is Enough?

47:27 – India’s Obesity Crisis

49:10 – Protein vs Carbohydrates

54:37 – Stray Dog Debate

59:07 – Tukaram Mundhe’s Restaurant Crackdown

1:11:14 – Fitness and Healthy Living

1:25:50 – Wealth Creators

1:27:29 – Workweek Debate

1:28:08 – China’s Education Model

1:31:11 – AI-Driven World

1:39:11 – Is India Falling Behind in AI?

1:42:10 – Pakistan’s ‘Islamic NATO’ Proposal

1:46:51 – India–US Relations

1:57:45 – Trump and US Midterm Elections

2:03:05 – China’s Lead Over the US

2:11:11 – Manufacturing in India

2:18:40 – India’s Broken Systems

2:20:16 – Delhi’s Governance Problems

2:28:54 – Government Schools

2:32:09 – Visas and India’s Foreign Policy

2:34:30 – Conclusion

The ‘Real’ Samosa Caucus is back with Edition 9.0, Part 1 — bigger debates, sharper arguments and absolutely no filters.

Joining the panel 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

In this episode, the panel discusses the rise of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), anger among the youth, protests in Jharkhand, ethanol blending in petrol, the Ramayana and The Odyssey, and much more.

Trade Crypto, Gold, Silver and US Stock Tokens in INR! Download app to get 10% off in Fees: https://deltaexchange.onelink.me/DIpL/zb5g0nh3

Delta Exchange is India's leading Crypto Exchange, fully compliant and requiring only INR to trade Crypto.

Timestamps

0:00 – Introduction

4:03 – E20 Debate

7:03 – Birth of CJP

12:54 – BJP’s Political Moves

18:35 – Cockroach Janta Party

26:48 – NEET Protest

29:42 – Traditional vs Social Media

31:33 – Sonam Wangchuk

35:24 – BJP vs Congress

45:24 – Jantar Mantar Effect

48:13 – FCRA Bill

53:50 – Gen Z vs Political Parties

55:02 – Bihar Bypoll

59:58 – UP 2027 Polls

1:00:46 – UGC Rules

1:02:55 – Gen Z Debate

1:07:26 – Digital Footprint

1:20:11 – Politicians Who Adapt

1:29:05 – E20 Blending

1:39:39 – India’s New Consumption Story

2:07:28 – Cinema

Govinda is one of Bollywood’s biggest superstars of the 80s and 90s. Known for his unique comic timing, energetic dance moves, colourful style and unforgettable performances, he became one of the most loved entertainers of his generation.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Govinda talks about his rise to superstardom, his work with David Dhawan and Kader Khan, highs and lows of his career, and memories of legends like Rajesh Khanna, Dilip Kumar and Dev Anand.

This is Govinda like you have never seen him before - candid, emotional and completely unfiltered.

00:00 – Introduction

01:07 – 90s Stardom

03:42 – Dilip Kumar’s Advice

10:27 – Memories of Rajesh Khanna

14:26 – Mother’s Influence

21:20 – ‘Outsider’ Tag in Bollywood

25:29 – Flop Movies

32:18 – Working with David Dhawan

34:49 – Upcoming Films

37:53 – Love Affairs & Relationships

41:14 – Suicide Attempt & Spirituality

46:57 – Underworld Threats

50:34 – Pairing with Kader Khan

53:34 – Iconic Dance Style

58:00 – Chemistry with 90s Leading Heroines

1:03:34 – Global Fashion Trendsetting

1:05:52 – Tips to Salman Khan

1:07:58 – What’s Next for Govinda?

Amitabh Tiwari is a political strategist, election analyst, author and commentator. He is the founder of Vote Vibe and a regular columnist and television panellist. Mallika Bajaj is a digital transformation expert who studies how technology affects the way people learn, behave and think.

In this live edition of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, they discuss what Gen Z wants and why there is a disconnect between the government and young people. They also explain how algorithms work and why Instagram is becoming the next major platform for election campaigns.

00:00 – Introduction

00:58 – BJP Lost Gen Z Support?

06:22 – Algorithms & the Digital Divide

14:04 – BJP's Social Media Edge

19:58 – Q&A with Gen Z

20:51 – Foreign Apps & Data Leaks

26:39 – Need for Younger Politicians

34:08 – Fake Information in AI Age

42:10 – Gen Z's Political Grammar

45:35 – Job Creation

49:28 – CJP's Future Role

51:21 – Youth Representation in Parliament

56:41 – Legacy vs Independent Media

1:01:08 – Gen Z's Electoral Influence

1:06:02 – Political Labels

1:07:58 – Traditional Media

1:11:46 – The Right Way to Protest

1:17:26 – Political Influencers

1:21:19 – CJP's Political Ambitions

Pavan Malhotra is one of Hindi cinema’s finest actors, known for his powerful performances across films, television, theatre and OTT. In a career spanning over 45 years, he has delivered memorable roles in films like ‘Salim Langde Pe Mat Ro’, ‘Black Friday’, ‘Bhaag Milkha Bhaag’ and ‘Jab We Met’.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Pavan Malhotra talks about his journey in cinema, working with legendary actors and directors, Bollywood’s PR culture, typecasting, political films and changing approach of new actors.

00:00 – Introduction

00:54 – Working On ‘Gandhi’ Film

05:32 – Theatre’s Marxist Influence

11:40 – Political Films & Selective Outrage

15:34 – ‘Salim Langde Pe Mat Ro’ Story

22:06 – Indian Parallel Cinema

27:04 – Amrish Puri’s Advice

31:36 – ‘Black Friday’ & Anurag Kashyap

38:52 – BTS of ‘Bhaag Milkha Bhaag’

46:10 – Bollywood’s New-Gen Actors

49:46 – Legacy Of Om Puri

54:20 – Bollywood PR Culture

57:42 – OTT vs Theatre

1:02:23 – Rakesh Bedi’s Bollywood Journey

1:07:33 – Making Of ‘Punjab 1984’

1:12:05 – Art Of Storytelling

1:19:48 – Indian Culture & Traditions

Ronnie Screwvala wears many hats: entrepreneur, investor, film producer and philanthropist. He built UTV into one of India’s biggest media companies, co-founded upGrad and established the Swades Foundation.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Ronnie Screwvala speaks about the student anger, paper leaks and what is wrong with India’s education system.

He also discusses degrees versus skills, unemployment, AI, India’s competition with China, entrepreneurship, start-ups and why India must become a “no-collar nation”.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

00:45 – AI Bubble

02:54 – China in AI Race

06:54 – India’s Service Economy

09:48 – Entrepreneurial Journey

14:41 – Rang De Basanti

16:46 – Licence Raj & Liberalisation

22:30 – Education and upGrad

26:39 – Quick Commerce

30:02 – Advertising Agencies

32:30 – India’s Television Revolution

38:47 – Did OTT Save Indian Cinema?

44:34 – Will AI Make Our Minds Dull?

47:38 – Education & Rural Digital Divide

52:56 – India’s Untapped Tourism

55:52 – Student Protests & Education Reform

1:03:15 – AI & Entry-Level Jobs

1:07:31 – Blue-Collar Work

1:13:11 – AI, Agriculture & Farming

Mahesh Jethmalani is a Senior Advocate of the Supreme Court of India and a former Rajya Sabha MP. He has represented the BJP in several high-profile legal battles over the past four decades.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Mahesh Jethmalani speaks about his father Ram Jethmalani's legacy.

The conversation also covers 2002 Gujarat riots, 26/11 Mumbai attacks, judicial reforms, anti-defection law, Vande Mataram debate and NEET student protests.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

00:54 – NEET protests

10:51 – Anti-defection law

22:35 – Article 370 & Ram temple

29:20 – Ram Jethmalani's legacy

39:20 – High-profile cases

43:45 – LK Advani's leadership

48:13 – 2002 Gujarat riots

1:00:20 – 26/11 terror attacks trial

1:05:16 – 'Cockroach' remark by CJI

1:11:17 – Ram Jethmalani's courtroom drama

1:15:19 – Handling BJP cases

1:18:11 – Modi-Trump relationship

1:27:30 – Indus Waters Treaty

1:31:28 – Judicial reforms

1:43:19 – Vande Mataram debate

1:49:06 – Harshad Mehta case

Manish Tewari is a senior Congress leader, lawyer and Member of Parliament from Chandigarh. He previously represented Ludhiana and Anandpur Sahib in the Lok Sabha and served as Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting. He is also an author and has been active in Indian politics for over four decades.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, he discusses the Cockroach Janta Party protest, the NEET controversy, police action against students, Rahul Gandhi’s protest and the Parliament deadlock. He also speaks about the Punjab Congress, the 2027 Assembly elections, Operation Sindoor, his viral interaction with PM Modi.

00:00 – Introduction

01:16 – Cockroach Janta Party

06:01 – Political Involvement

07:36 – INDIA Alliance

14:36 – PM Residence Protest

15:54 – Pradhan’s Resignation

17:43 – Parliament Washout

20:05 – Anti-Defection Law

36:18 – Interaction with PM Modi

40:28 – Journey Through Congress

43:45 – Punjab Elections 2027

45:46 – Operation Sindoor

51:32 – Father’s Assassination

56:15 – Political Entry

57:52 – Rajiv Gandhi

01:01:53 – Punjabiyat

01:05:32 – Punjab Partition

01:10:43 – Satluj Movie

01:12:26 – Accidental Prime Minister

01:14:29 – Chandigarh Connection

01:16:50 – Partition Trauma

01:20:20 – Bittu Traitor Remark

01:26:19 – Bhagwant Mann

01:31:57 – US Trade Deal

01:35:02 – Conclusion

Arnab Ray, also known as Greatbong, is known for his satirical commentary on Indian politics, society, and popular culture. He is an author and holds a PhD in Computer Science.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Arnab Ray discusses racism against Indians, the H-1B visa crackdown, AI-driven job cuts, and the changing American Dream.

00:00 – Introduction

01:33 – Image of Indian Immigrants

05:55 – Challenges for Indian Immigrants

10:23 – Indian American Cultural Identity

17:10 – Political Influence of Immigrants

27:20 – H-1B Crackdown

32:41 – Indian Students in U.S.

40:01 – NRI Stereotype

46:01 – Indian Politics and NRI Connection

53:53 – Indian Diaspora and Political Polarisation

59:09 – Jimmy Kimmel Controversy

1:07:18 – Rise of BJP in Bengal

Medha Bhaskaran is an author and researcher known for her work on Maratha history. She has written extensively about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and Maharani Tarabai.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Medha Bhaskaran explores the long conflict between the Marathas and the Mughal Empire.

She also discusses Aurangzeb’s Deccan campaign, the destruction of temples, Shivaji Maharaj’s military leadership, Maharani Tarabai’s resistance, Tipu Sultan and the continuing debate over how Indian history has been written.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

00:56 – Life in Dubai

05:31 – Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

10:16 – Mughal-era Violence

15:36 – Aurangzeb's Deccan Wars

22:27 – Aurangzeb's Family Conflicts

31:25 – Idea of Hindavi Swarajya

45:29 – Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s Legacy

52:40 – Untold Story of Maharani Tarabai

58:54 – Maratha Weapons

1:02:43 – Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's Final Days

1:07:34 – How Shivaji Maharaj Became Chhatrapati

1:22:25 – Rewriting Indian History

1:28:57 – Story of Tarabai’s Courage

R.V.S. Mani is a former Under Secretary in the Internal Security Division of Ministry of Home Affairs and a public commentator on national security. He was conferred the Padma Shri in 2026 and is the author of The Myth of Hindu Terror: An Insider's Account of the Ministry of Home Affairs (2006–2010).

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, R.V.S. Mani speaks about the origins of the "Hindu Terror" narrative.

He also discusses the truth behind the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, Ishrat Jahan case, Beant Singh assassination, Pakistan-backed terror funding through fake currency and India's evolving internal security strategy.

00:00 – Introduction

00:54 – On Receiving Padma Shri Award 2026

02:34 – "Hindu Terror" Narrative

12:22 – 2006 Malegaon Blast Case

21:10 – 2007 Samjhauta Express Bombings

32:56 – 26/11 Mumbai Terror Attacks

51:32 – Pakistan's Fake Currency & Terror Network

54:18 – Ishrat Jahan Encounter Case

1:05:46 – CBI Questioning of R.V.S. Mani

1:14:21 – Fake Currency Empire of Khanani Brothers

1:33:53 – Cross-Border Drug Trafficking

1:37:10 – Beant Singh Assassination Case

1:39:34 – Lessons on National Security

Surjit Bhalla is an economist, author, and columnist. He was a part-time member of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Economic Advisory Council. He also served as Executive Director at the IMF for India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Surjit Bhalla shares his views on why India may not achieve its Viksit Bharat goal by 2047 if it continues with business as usual. He also says, "Senior babus who make decisions but are never held accountable are India's real deep state."

The conversation covers Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India's economy, the rupee, China, foreign direct investment, demonetisation, GDP, and the reforms India needs to accelerate economic growth.

00:00 – Introduction

03:03 – India's Economic Future

12:51 – Why India Overprotects Its Industries

16:42 – Lessons From Vietnam

21:07 – Viksit Bharat 2047 Target Realistic?

24:25 – India's Growth Story

36:43 – Why India Hesitates to Reform

42:24 – Agriculture and Dairy Sector

50:14 – China's Agriculture Model

56:39 – Manufacturing in West Bengal

1:01:15 – India's Next Window for Reforms

1:09:46 – Why Isn't FDI Coming to India?

1:13:51 – India's Job Challenge

1:21:13 – The Freebies Debate

1:30:06 – Demonetisation

1:34:27 – India's Middle Class Really Growing?

1:38:11 – Advice for Prime Minister Modi

Tilak Devasher is the author of four widely acclaimed books on Pakistan and a former member of the National Security Advisory Board. He lives and breathes Pakistan, closely tracking its politics, military, and society.

Uttam Kumar Sinha is a scholar and commentator on transboundary rivers, climate change, and the Arctic. He is a Senior Fellow at the Manohar Parrikar Institute of Defence Studies and Analyses and the author of 'Trial by Water: Indus Basin and India-Pakistan Relations' (2025) and 'Indus Basin Uninterrupted' (2021).

In this edition of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, the guests discuss the Indus Waters Treaty, signed between India and Pakistan in 1960, and how it has become the latest flashpoint between the two countries. Will Pakistan face a water crisis due to the suspension of the treaty? More on Ayub Khan, Nehru, Modi and Asim Munir.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

02:00 – Indus Waters Treaty Geography

07:54 – Nehru's Vision

14:39 – Importance of Chenab

22:12 – Pakistan's Water Crisis

27:50 – India's Dam Projects

35:40 – Abeyance of Water Treaty

40:07 – India's Water Storage Capacity

46:20 – Chenab-Beas Link Project

54:49 – Pak's Diplomatic Strategy

1:03:20 – How Indus Waters Treaty Was Signed

1:11:23 – Pakistan's Internal Water Conflict

1:18:10 – India's Narrative

Rahul Bajoria is the Head of India and ASEAN Economic Research at Bank of America (BofA).

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Rahul Bajoria discusses the impact of falling rupee, inflation, foreign investment, AI's impact on jobs, and what lies ahead for the Indian economy.

He also explains why strengthening India's energy security is essential to protecting the economy from future global shocks.

00:00 - Introduction

00:33 - India's Growth Story

03:18 - Manufacturing in India

07:21 - Foreign Investment

09:29 - Investment Boost

13:16 - Inflation vs. Growth

14:56 - Oil Prices & the RBI's Next Move

16:35 - Indian Stock Market

18:46 - Investment Strategy

25:09 - India's Consumption Story

30:15 - Make in India & Exports

34:37 - AI, Jobs & Unemployment

44:12 - Bank Lending vs. Deposit Growth

52:20 - Falling Rupee

55:28 - Lessons from ASEAN Economies

1:00:18 - Risks to India's Economy

1:03:21 - Top 3 Economic Reforms for India

Talmiz Ahmad is one of India’s most experienced diplomats, with decades of work across West Asia, the Gulf, and global strategic affairs. A former Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the UAE, he has watched world politics change from the front row.

In this edition of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, he says Benjamin Netanyahu misled Donald Trump by promising a quick victory in Iran, only for the war to drag on. He calls Trump an unpredictable leader, argues that U.S.-Israel ties have suffered, discusses Pakistan's role in the peace talks, and explains why the Iran war is India's war because New Delhi's strategic interests lie in the Gulf.

00:00 – Introduction

01:35 – US-Iran Talks

03:51 – Netanyahu's Influence

06:33 – Trump's Shift on Israel

10:26 – Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

14:18 – Hegemon in West Asia

21:25 – Trump Vs Netanyahu

26:59 – Pakistan's Role

33:49 – Netanyahu's War Strategy

37:27 – Gulf's Response to Israel

43:29 – Pakistan's Influence

52:36 – Why West Asia Matters to India

57:27 – New Multipolar World Order

Pathikrit Payne has over 20 years of experience in journalism and policy analysis. He is currently a Senior Fellow at the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Research Foundation.

Sanjay Bhardwaj is the former Chairperson of the Centre for South Asian Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University's School of International Studies. He specialises in India's foreign policy towards its neighbours, including Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and China.

In this episode of ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, the guests discuss the Gen Z-led protests in India's neighbouring countries, the rise of the Cockroach Janata Party, and whether Gen Z has the power to influence or even topple a government in India.

00:00 - Introduction

01:40 - Youth in West Bengal & Tamil Nadu

13:55 - Youth Protests Around the World

21:44 - Challenges to Democracy

33:53 - Are India's Youth Angry?

46:04 - Gen Z Protests

1:02:10 - The Sanatan Debate

1:12:40 - Do Neighbours Distrust India?

1:24:33 - India-Bangladesh Relations

1:37:57 - The Aspirations of Today's Youth

From Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal to Punjab, political equations are shifting across India. Is Prime Minister Narendra Modi still the defining force in Indian politics? Can Rahul Gandhi transform the Congress into a credible alternative? What role will regional parties play in shaping the next phase of Indian democracy? And is India moving towards a two-coalition political system?

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, senior journalists Neerja Chowdhury, Rasheed Kidwai and Shekhar Iyer join the discussion to analyse the changing political landscape.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

01:20 – TMC's Collapse

08:05 – Defections in TMC

15:10 – The Fall of Abhishek Banerjee

23:31 – Congress & Regional Parties

31:53 – Congress–TMC Merger?

37:57 – TVK-Congress Alliance

47:33 – Rahul Gandhi vs Modi in 2029?

54:27 – BJP's Core Voters

1:00:23 – Why Voters Relate to Modi

1:08:19 – Modi's Feedback Mechanism

1:14:44 – Rajasthan Congress & Sachin Pilot

1:24:46 – Punjab Assembly Polls 2027

1:31:58 – UP Polls 2027

1:38:48 – Journalists and Politicians

Reuven Azar is Israel's Ambassador to India. A career diplomat, he has held several key positions in Israel's foreign service and has been closely involved in shaping his country's foreign policy and international relations.

In this edition of the ANI Podcast, Reuven Azar speaks to Smita Prakash about the Iran–U.S. peace deal, Israel's position on Lebanon, the future of the Middle East, and whether the region is moving towards peace or another phase of conflict. He also discusses India-Israel ties and what has changed under the leadership of PM Modi.

00:00 – Introduction

00:55 – U.S.–Iran Peace Deal

07:45 – What Israel Wants Next

09:22 – Defence vs Aggression

18:00 – Trump & Netanyahu Relationship

19:47 – Iran’s Nuclear Program

24:32 – Strait of Hormuz Crisis

29:05 – Buffer Zones in Gaza, Lebanon & Syria

35:02 – Netanyahu Under Pressure?

43:04 – Humanitarian Cost of War

46:35 – Two-State Solution

51:50 – India–Israel Relations

53:10 – Israel’s Wartime Economy

55:24 – Modi’s Visit & Iran Strikes

59:18 – Six Shared India–Israel Values

1:03:21 – Trade & Investment Future

1:08:23 – Pakistan as a Mediator

Dr. V. Anantha Nageswaran is the Chief Economic Advisor to the Government of India. He is also a writer, author, and teacher. He has taught at several business schools and management institutes in India and Singapore. He was a part-time member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister of India from 2019 to 2021.

In this edition of the ANI Podcast, Dr. Nageswaran speaks to Smita Prakash about the future of the Indian economy, the impact of the West Asia crisis, the outlook for the rupee, and whether AI is a bubble. He also explains why he believes the era of the MBA is over.

00:00 - Introduction

00:56 - Foreign Investors

04:14 - Rupee-Dollar Debate

08:24 - Rupee Stability

14:20 - Foreign Banks

20:07 - Critics of India's Economy

28:20 - China's Manufacturing

33:09 - Unemployment in India

35:09 - Freebies Debate

44:24 - India's Aging Population

50:41 - Demographic Dividend

58:36 - The Skill Gap

1:00:21 - Artificial Intelligence

1:05:55 - India's Economic Strength

1:09:52 - Myths About Indian Economy

1:12:00 - India in 2047

1:18:22 - Per Capita Income

1:22:56 - Viksit Bharat Target

1:27:59 - Vision for India

1:36:42 - Old Economic Beliefs

1:38:07 - India's Economic Mindset

1:44:52 - Advice vs. Execution in Govt

1:48:40 - Fake News

Pawan Kalyan is the Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, the founder and chief of the Jana Sena Party, an actor, and a philanthropist. He is the younger brother of Telugu cinema megastar Chiranjeevi. Over the years, he has carved a unique place for himself in Andhra Pradesh politics and has become one of the biggest stars in Telugu cinema, with a devoted fan following that extends far beyond the silver screen.

In his first-ever podcast appearance, Pawan Kalyan opens up about his journey from movies to politics, his plans for Telangana, his days in Srinagar, his spiritual beliefs, and several untold stories from his life. He also shares his views on Gen Z, nationalism, language politics, governance, and the future of India.

Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction

00:48: - Story Behind His Name

02:37 - Re-Entering Telangana Politics

07:03 - Telangana Expansion Plan

09:17 - "Outsider" Tag in Telangana

12:36 - North-South Debate

17:25 - Tax Allocation Debate

20:17 - Cockroach Janta Party

27:53 - Spiritual Journey

45:19 - Freebies Debate

48:54 - Hindi Imposition

57:54 - Plans for IT Jobs

1:00:15 - Brain Drain

1:08:47 - Special Status for Andhra

1:10:07 - Telangana Roadmap

1:14:27 - What's Next in Life?

1:16:59 - South vs North Films

1:21:54 - Fitness Routine

Neelkanth Mishra is an Economist and a part-time member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister. He has recently been appointed India’s Executive Director at the World Bank.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Mishra breaks down India’s current economic position amid the West Asia crisis. He discusses the impact of the falling rupee, energy problem, capital flows, and concerns around foreign investors leaving India.

00:00 – Introduction

1:09 – India's Economic Growth Outlook

7:37 – Are Foreign Investors Leaving India?

12:27 – Innovation Challenge in India

22:29 – India's Energy Vulnerability

25:41 – Economic Impact of West Asia Crisis

32:47 – US Tariffs on India

36:32 – Rupee’s Fall

48:31 – RBI’s Gold Reserves Position

53:02 – Why Gold Overtook US Bonds

57:29 – Domestic Demand vs Export-Led Growth

1:05:38 – 3 Key Policy Advice for India’s Growth

1:19:14 – Lessons from Global Capital Giants

1:25:23 – RBI’s Hold on Repo Rate

1:28:26 – Tax Exemption on Government Securities

1:32:38 – India’s Next Phase of Economic Expansion

Dr Shamika Ravi is a Member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister and a Secretary to the Government of India. Her research focuses on development economics, with a special emphasis on finance, healthcare, urbanisation, gender equality, welfare, and poverty.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Dr Shamika Ravi discusses how the West Asia crisis impacts India's economy. She responds to critics who argue that India's growth story is over and shares her views on foreign direct investment, India's position in the artificial intelligence race, the falling rupee, rising inflation, and the country's economic outlook in 2026.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

00:48 – India's Economic Future

04:29 – Foreign Direct Investment

07:11 – India's Approach to AI

11:09 – Indians' Purchasing Power

15:13 – Nuclear Reactors

17:28 – COVID-Like Crisis Coming?

19:56 – Advice for Investors

22:09 – India's Economic Growth

25:16 – Freebies and Welfare Politics

29:24 – Rural vs. Urban Consumption

30:52 – Economic Reforms

40:43 – PM's Advice Against Buying Gold

44:43 – World Abandoning Free Market?

48:43 – Market Privatisation in India

50:26 – Market Solutions for New-Age Problems

56:20 – India's Demographic Dividend

1:06:03 – Demographic Change in India

1:10:06 – Women's Reservation

1:18:24 – PM Modi's Economic Vision for 2047

Indrani Bagchi is the CEO of Ananta Centre, a platform for dialogue, leadership and public policy. She has spent many years covering India's Ministry of External Affairs and is known for explaining global events from an Indian perspective.

Prof. C. Raja Mohan is one of India's leading experts on foreign policy, national security and international relations. He has taught at major universities and has advised the Indian government on strategic and security issues.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash and Ishaan Prakash, the guests discuss where India's foreign policy is headed. They talk about the West Asia crisis, the Trump–Munir relationship, and how India should respond to China's growing presence in the Indian Ocean. They also discuss India's ties with the United States and China, as well as the Great Nicobar Project and India's long-term strategic challenges.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

01:23 – Marco Rubio’s India Visit

07:02 – India–US Trade Deal

10:41 – Trump–Xi Summit

15:15 – Trump’s Second-Term Doctrine

18:31 – India–US Relations

29:08 – Trump–Munir Lunch

33:33 – India’s Geopolitical Challenge

37:45 – How Energy, Tech & Trade Shape Geopolitics

45:38 – India’s Supply Chain Crisis

55:22 – India’s Economic Challenge

1:00:31 – Why India Needs Private Players in Defence

1:07:58 – West Asia’s New Alliances

1:18:23 – The Great Nicobar Project

1:28:20 – Tata–ASML Deal

In the latest edition of ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, we are joined by Kuldeep Mishra, better known as Sardar, the Executive Editor of The Lallantop; Asif Khan, fondly known as Khancha, the Executive Editor of India Today Group Digital; and Kamlesh Singh, or Tau, a senior journalist and columnist. Together, the trio host Teen Taal, one of India’s most popular Hindi podcasts.

From hostel tales and small-town stories to politics and friendship, the guests explain why sometimes the most meaningful conversations come from what they call “therapeutic bullsh*t.” Don’t miss this “most useless podcast ever.”

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

04:06 – Melodi Trend

05:48 – How Teen Taal Team Met

09:26 – School Life: Then vs Now

17:46 – Political Ideologies

26:38 – Teen Taal's Show Format

28:37 – How Teen Taal Started

33:33 – The Lallantop & Teen Taal

37:57 – How Kamlesh Tau Entered Journalism

43:58 – Truck Wali Shayari

47:06 – Kamlesh Tau's Childhood Stories

49:08 – Original Idea Behind Teen Taal

56:51 – Photography: Then vs Smartphone Era

1:03:47 – Teachers & Schooling

1:18:22 – Story Behind Teen Taal Characters

1:26:08 – Journalism: Then vs Now

1:32:17 – Weird Food Combinations

1:36:16 – Culture & Tradition of Eating Paan

1:43:18 – Urbanisation

1:55:02 – India's Stray Dog Issue

2:08:38 – India's Urban-Rural Divide

2:11:40 – Two-Wheelers in India

2:17:35 – NEET Paper Leak

2:27:18 – Aditi Rao Hydari's Cannes Look

2:34:51 – Incentives for Having More Children

2:39:40 – Migration Within India

2:58:36 – Criticism of Teen Taal

Major SPS Oberoi (Retd.) served as an Artillery Officer in the Indian Army for 11 years. He is currently a UPSC mentor and Academic Director at Ekam IAS Academy, Hyderabad.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Major SPS Oberoi (Retd.) shares his journey from serving in the Army to becoming a UPSC mentor. He challenges the popular belief that the UPSC is the toughest exam in India and explains the obsession surrounding it. He also discusses the issue of dowry, often associated with civil servants, and the social prestige attached to government jobs.

He speaks candidly about discipline, success, AI, coaching industry, and the mental health challenges faced by UPSC aspirants.

00:00 – Introduction

01:08 – Childhood And Education

04:24 – Army Officer To UPSC Mentor

08:16 – UPSC Preparation Journey

12:48 – Can AI Guide UPSC Students?

16:20 – Ideal Study Time For UPSC Preparation

18:23 – UPSC Study Materials

21:33 – Digital Detox For Students

23:53 – AI In Administration Work

31:16 – Male vs Female Intelligence

36:46 – Presence of Mind & Quick Reactions

38:50 – Obsession With UPSC Preparation

40:27 – Parental Pressure In Education

45:25 – Scholastic Assessment Test

48:01 – Career Options For Youth

52:03 – Violence Against Children

53:56 – Sikhism And Marriage Rules

56:49 – Dowry In India

1:00:16 – Why Civil Servants Become Corrupt

1:06:50 – Views On Reservation

1:09:31 – UPSC Craze In Bihar And U.P

1:13:48 – Financial Independence For Graduates

1:15:56 – Army Life Vs Civilian Life

1:19:20 – Golden Rule For Study

1:25:29 – Importance Of Language In UPSC

1:30:43 – Learning From Students

From Tejas fighter jets and the AMCA programme to drones and missile systems. India is pushing aggressively towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Can India truly become “Aatmanirbhar” in defence? Or is complete self-reliance impossible in a world dependent on global supply chains? What role will private companies play in India’s growing drone ecosystem?

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, we are joined by Sanjeev Kumar, IAS, Secretary, Department of Defence Production. A 1993-batch IAS officer with a background in electronics engineering, communication technology, and financial management, he is leading India’s push towards indigenous defence manufacturing and technology modernisation.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

01:05 – Lessons from West Asia Crisis

05:05 – India’s Drone Production Capacity

05:52 – India’s Missile Production Capacity

08:49 – India’s Ammunition Manufacturing Capacity

14:27 – India’s Defence Exports

17:20 – India’s Atmanirbhar Defence Capabilities

19:45 – Success of ‘Make in India’ in Defence

24:52 – India’s Defence Imports

27:59 – Chinese Components & Data Security Risks

29:02 – Use of AI in Modern Warfare

29:52 – India’s Indigenous Fighter Jet Programme

35:24 – Tejas Jet Delivery Status

38:25 – India’s BrahMos Missile Programme

39:35 – India’s Competitors in Defence Exports

42:02 – India’s AMCA Project

44:09 – Defence Firms Investing in R&D

49:09 – Defence Talent and Innovation in India

56:56 – India–Russia Defence Partnership

1:02:04 – S-400 and Operation Sindoor

In this edition of ANI Podcast, Smita Prakash speaks to India’s first female Dastango, Fouzia Dastango, about Urdu, theatre, storytelling, women in traditional art spaces, and her journey of keeping the 16th-century art of Dastangoi alive in modern India.

She explains why people should not have any problem with her reciting the Ramayana and Mahabharata in Urdu, and how the art of storytelling must evolve with the current generation.

00:00 - Introduction

01:04 - What is Dastangoi?

03:08 - Kathavachak vs Dastango

04:37 - Real Identity of Urdu

05:32 - Ramayana & Mahabharata in Urdu

09:14 - Fouzia Dastango’s Story

15:05 - Feminist Elements in Stories

22:53 - Choosing Stories Based on Audience

28:47 - Classical vs Folk Art

33:14 - Inspiration Behind Performance

37:05 - Gen Z Connect with Dastangoi

42:03 - Hardest Emotion to Portray

46:46 - Cultural Home of Dastangoi

51:48 - Advice for Younger Generation

Geetam Tiwari is an Emeritus Professor at the Transportation Research & Injury Prevention Centre, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi. She has over 25 years of experience in transportation planning, road safety, and urban mobility. Her work focuses on safer roads, better footpaths, bicycle infrastructure, and protecting pedestrians.

In this edition of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, she talks about why Indian cities face traffic chaos, unsafe roads, and poor pedestrian facilities. She also discusses what India needs to do to build safer, smarter, and more efficient transport systems.

00:00 – Introduction

02:21 – Rising Road Deaths

08:13 – International Driving Tests

10:03 – Road Safety Rules

11:49 – School Bus Safety

13:38 – Highways & Expressways Design Flaws

17:03 – Audible Road Markers

21:12 – Why Indians Ignore Road Signs

22:05 – Facilities on Expressways & Highways

23:53 – Expressways & Highways for Two-Wheelers

25:41 – Importance of Service Roads

29:07 – Wrong-Side Driving

31:26 – Pedestrians & Cyclists

37:45 – Public Spaces Accessibility

39:13 – Reality of Vendors on Indian Roads

41:38 – Why Foot Overbridges & Underpasses Fail

46:31 – The Pothole Problem

49:58 – Corruption in Road Construction

53:11 – Municipal Corporations and Dug-Up Roads

55:02 – Labourers at Road Construction Sites

58:18 – Road Reality Check Segment

1:04:49 – Building Proper Bicycle Paths

Dr Arvind Gupta is Director of the Vivekananda International Foundation and a former Deputy National Security Advisor of India.

Ambassador Veena Sikri is a former Indian diplomat who served as High Commissioner to Bangladesh and Malaysia, with decades of experience in foreign policy.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, the discussion focuses on how the global power structure is changing and whether institutions like NATO, the Quad, the United Nations, BRICS, and the G20 still remain relevant in today’s world.

The episode also explores India’s foreign policy approach, including strategic autonomy, multi-alignment and the ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, as well as Pakistan’s growing diplomatic role and its impact on South Asia.

00:00 – Introduction

02:04 – NATO Crisis

07:15 – Decline of Post-Cold War Order

13:34 – Gulf Countries’ Security Alliances

18:25 – Germany and Japan’s Defence Reset

21:48 – Future of US-China G2

27:09 – Global Sea Route Security

30:47 – India’s Balancing Act in West Asia

35:25 – Pakistan as Mediator Between the US and Iran

39:34 – Can SAARC Be Revived?

43:36 – India, Pakistan & Narrative War

52:47 – India-Bangladesh Ties

55:44 – India’s Strategic Role in BRICS

1:02:13 – ‘Vishwamitra’ Doctrine Under PM Modi

1:05:08 – India’s Geopolitical Challenges

1:09:08 – Regionalisation & Global Power Shifts

The much-awaited episode of The ‘Real’ Samosa Caucus – Edition 8.0 is here, packed with raw, uncensored, and no-holds-barred conversations.

Joining the panel 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 discusses the recently conducted Assembly polls in Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Assam; the Iran war; the Trump phenomenon; Pakistan’s stature after the war.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

01:59 – Story of Anga, Banga & Kalinga

03:14 – Cold-Pressed Oils & ‘Adult-Rated’ Banter

06:17 – Fall of Mamata Banerjee’s Regime

14:48 – Fragmentation of Communities

19:30 – Nashik TCS Case

21:24 – Impact of SIR in Bengal

26:01 – BJP Started Mirroring the Left?

29:48 – Indo-Bangladesh Border Fencing

35:01 – Japanese & Bengali Food Connection

39:31 – Vijay Benefitted From Annamalai’s Groundwork?

50:40 – Politics of Fielding Controversial Candidates

54:29 – Raghav Chadha’s BJP Entry

59:46 – Rajnath Singh’s Comment on Terrorism

1:01:41 – Indian Muslims’ Support for Iran

1:11:02 – US Deputy Secretary’s Remarks on Trade Deal

1:30:39 – Left-Liberal Ecosystem Debate

1:53:29 – ‘Maach Bhaat’ Politics in Bengal

1:59:07 – The Fall of INDIA Bloc ‘Titans’

2:04:27 – Anand’s Parents’ Love Story

2:11:24 – Importance of Punctuality & Time Management

2:16:08 – Veg vs Non-Veg Discussion

2:32:42 – Who Will Be Next Keralam CM?

2:40:39 – India’s Economic Challenges Amid West Asia War

2:46:20 – Why India Needs Big Reforms

In this live session of the ANI Podcast, the guests discuss the lessons India has drawn from the Iran war and the learnings from Operation Sindoor as it completes one year. The conversation explores military readiness, evolving threats, and the role of technology and strategy in shaping India’s defence posture.

Participants

Sushant Sareen, Senior Fellow, ORF

Tilak Devasher, Author; Former Member, National Security Advisory Board

Moderators

Smita Prakash, Chief Editor & Deputy CEO, ANI

Naveen Kapoor, National Bureau Chief, ANI

*Timestamps*

00:00 - Introduction

00:34 - Lessons from Operation Sindoor

13:46 - Pakistan’s Close Ties with the USA

25:48 - How Pakistan Handles the Media

31:26 - What Changed in Pak After Op Sindoor?

35:56 - Dhurandar Operations in Pakistan

42:35 - India’s Strategic Autonomy

48:45 - How Pakistanis View Indians

1:00:28 - India’s Reaction to Global Conflicts

1:09:09 - India’s Defence Strategy

1:20:10 - India’s Border Security

Sanjeev Kapoor is one of India’s most well-known chefs, authors and entrepreneurs. From ‘Khana Khazana’ to global restaurants, and from cookbooks to food innovation, he has influenced how India looks at cooking and flavour over the last few decades.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Chef talks about how eating habits in India are changing, with busy lifestyles and ready-to-eat meals replacing home-cooked meals.

He also explores India’s food culture, from street food and restaurant experiences to hygiene standards and cloud kitchens. Kapoor shares honest views on overhyped food trends, along with what makes a dish special.

00:00 - Introduction

01:23 - Choosing a Cooking Career

13:43 - Starting the Restaurant Journey

26:10 - Western Cooking vs. Indian Cooking

34:13 - Curating Restaurant Menus

38:38 - Indian Food Plating

42:33 - Curating Airline Menus

56:11 - Cooking in Modern Times

1:01:22 – Restaurant Culture

1:04:26 - Snap Reactions

1:08:16 - Hygiene In Cloud Kitchens

1:22:37 - Indian Food Culture

1:44:02 - Underrated Indian Spices

Vikas Tiwari, also known as Ranu Tiwari, runs the YouTube channel Bastar Talkies. He has helped over 200 Naxals surrender and return to mainstream society. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, he talks about how Naxalism began in Chhattisgarh, the challenges of reporting from Bastar, and the goal set by Union Home Minister Amit Shah to make India Naxal-free. He was awarded the Rameshwaram Hindi Journalism National Award in December 2025. This is a simple, first-hand account from a journalist reporting directly from the remote areas of Chhattisgarh.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

03:18 – From Truck Driver to YouTuber

11:58 – Dangers in Naxal-Affected Areas

15:34 – Naxalism and Its Causes

22:07 – How Naxals Return to the Mainstream

28:33 – Challenges of Reporting in Naxal Areas

36:41 – Naxals in Bastar: What Has Changed

41:10 – Thulthuli Encounter Explained

44:41 – The Story of Mukesh Chandrakar

50:58 – Why Maoists Resisted Development

56:03 – The Reality of Salwa Judum

58:28 – Life After Maoists’ Surrender

1:00:53 – Youth and Maoist Ideology

1:02:35 – Reporting from Naxal Areas

1:07:22 – Stories from Families of Martyrs

1:14:08 – When Maoists Started Losing Power

1:16:36 – Attack on Congress Leader V.C. Shukla

1:18:35 – Understanding “Urban Naxals”

1:24:10 – Suggestions to Counter “Urban Naxals”

1:27:15 – Reality of Bastar Villages

India’s financial markets are going through a complex global situation, shaped by changing geopolitics and shifts in domestic growth. To help us understand what lies ahead, the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash is joined by one of the most respected voices in the investment world, Nilesh Shah, Managing Director of Kotak Mahindra Asset Management Company. He is also a part-time member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister. With decades of experience across market cycles, he shares valuable insights on the economy, markets, and where investors should consider placing their bets. He also explains what lessons India can learn from the West Asia crisis.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

00:39 – Role in PM’s Economic Advisory Council

03:49 – India’s GDP Ranking

07:30 – India’s Economic Vulnerability

12:30 – Progress of Banking in India

16:16 – Impact of West Asia Conflict on India

20:41 – How India Can Improve Its GDP

25:22 – US Markets During Iran War

27:44 – India–China Trade Explained

31:07 – Monsoon Impact on Indian Economy

32:30 – Why is Rupee Falling?

37:55 – Role of AI in Indian Economy

41:06 – Investor Trust in Indian Equities

42:37 – IPO Rush in 2025 Explained

44:09 – Buy or Sell in the Stock Market

46:45 – How to Manage Money Better

In this episode of ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, we take a deep dive into Women’s Reservation Constitutional Amendment Bill, which was defeated in the Lok Sabha on April 17, 2026.

Joining the conversation are Varghese K. George, resident editor at The Hindu, and Swapnil Tripathi, lead at Charkha (Centre for Constitutional Law) at Vidhi.

Together, they explain what the bill aimed to do and why linking it with delimitation and census data led to political disagreement.

The discussion also covers concerns over North-South balance, population-based seat redistribution, and parliamentary accountability.

*Timestamps*

00:00 – Introduction

01:47 – Political Timing of Women’s Quota Bill

05:38 – Delimitation Debate

11:02 – PM Modi’s Guarantee

17:03 – Impact on South India

20:24 – Chandrababu Naidu’s Stand

25:49 – Furore Over Delimitation

30:55 – Reserved Constituencies in India

35:11 – Population & Tax Contribution

40:28 – Tharoor’s Proposal

49:23 – Political Consensus on Women’s Reservation

52:44 – DMK’s Private Member’s Bill

56:43 – Executive-Centric Governance in Democracies

1:07:19 – Arvind Kejriwal & Mamata Banerjee in Court

Kangana Ranaut is a BJP MP from Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi and an actress known for speaking her mind. In this edition of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, she shares her journey in Bollywood and reflects on whether her bluntness has cost her opportunities in the industry.

She also speaks about her controversies with Karan Johar and her ‘tapori’ remark on Rahul Gandhi. The conversation covers the Women’s Reservation Bill, her upcoming film Queen 2, why she chose to become a parliamentarian, and more.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

00:53 – Salman’s Compliment

06:21 – Bollywood Journey

12:54 – Interview with Karan Johar

16:14 – Turning Point in Career

18:52 – Why Actresses Avoid Comedy Roles

20:51 – First-Time MP Experience

25:57 – ‘Tapori’ Remark Against Rahul Gandhi

29:28 – Women’s Reservation Bill

39:36 – Delimitation Debate

43:41 – Mandi Constituency Challenges

48:13 – Passion for Handloom Sarees

53:15 – ‘Dhurandhar’ Effect on Bollywood

59:23 – Snap Reactions

1:06:37 – Career vs Marriage Choice

1:17:35 – Journey from Mandi to Mumbai

Monika Halan is a finance writer, speaker, and author who helps families make better money decisions. She is the founder of Dhan Chakra Financial Education and the author of the best-selling book Let’s Talk Money. She also serves as the Chairperson of SEBI’s Advisory Committee for the Investor Protection and Education Fund.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Halan explains why investors often panic during situations like the Iran war. She says the key is to have a clear asset allocation and not enter the markets without proper understanding or research.

She also highlights the importance of energy and food security for India. She advocates that India has enough coal reserves for the next 100 years and should use them wisely. At the same time, she points out that India cannot be expected to follow the same climate standards as developed countries with much higher incomes.

00:00 – Coming Up

00:00 – Introduction

01:03 – Investor Anxiety Over Iran War

07:41 – Asset Allocation Strategies

14:15 – Where to Invest Amid War?

19:11 – India’s Fiscal & Monetary Safety Nets

25:11 – Financial Influencers

30:30 – Home Loans & Emergency Funds

34:12 – Financial Planning for Children’s Education

40:11 – Behavioural Traps in Investing

43:58 – Portfolio Management Tips

50:30 – India’s Reform Priorities

58:16 – AI and Financial Literacy

Air Marshal Sanjeev Kapoor (Retd) has served as the Director General (Inspection and Safety) of the Indian Air Force. He has also held the position of Commandant at both the Air Force Academy and the National Defence Academy. With over 7,800 hours of incident-free flying on various trainer, transport, and strategic aircraft, he is considered one of the stalwarts of Aerial Refuelling Operations in the Indian Air Force. He has also flown the Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft.

In this edition of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Air Marshal Sanjeev Kapoor explains how modern warfare in West Asia is driven by air power, missiles and drones, and how Iran’s air defence has challenged U.S. and Israeli air superiority.

He also highlights that China’s J-20 stealth fighters in Tibet pose a serious challenge and India must develop strong fifth-generation capabilities, while also pointing out that India’s indigenous satellite navigation system needs to be strengthened further.

*Timestamps*

00:00 – Introduction

01:16 – Iranian Air Defence Response

05:47 – Iran’s Decentralised Command Structure

09:57 – Iran’s Underground Missile Bases

18:05 – Limits of Modern Interceptor Systems

23:13 – Multi-Domain Warfare

29:20 – US Aircraft Losses

31:54 – India’s Satellite and Navigation Capability Gap

43:53 – Role of Theatre Commands

47:46 – Global Energy Supply Chains

50:56 – Indigenous Defence R&D

54:56 – Jamming and Spoofing

57:42 – Rafale Source Code Access Debate

M.A. Ganapathy is a former NSG Chief and senior IPS officer with decades of experience in internal security, counter-terrorism, and policing. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Ganapathy breaks down ‘PRAHAAR’, India’s first national counter-terror policy, and explains what it means for the country’s security strategy.

He talks about the lessons India can draw from the West Asia conflict, the importance of building capabilities as a deterrent, and why clear objectives are critical in any conflict. He also discusses the growing threats of drone warfare, cyber attacks, and radicalisation, and why India needs a “whole of society” approach to tackle terrorism. The conversation covers the role of intelligence agencies, coordination between police forces, and how sleeper cells operate in urban environments.

*Timestamps*

00:00 – Introduction

00:46 – US & Israel’s Objectives in Iran

05:08 – Role of Intelligence in Wars

06:50 – India’s Approach to Iran War

07:49 – ‘PRAHAAR’ Counter-Terror Policy

13:48 – Interstate Coordination

16:31 – State Police Forces

20:39 – De-radicalisation in India

29:12 – Naxal Networks

32:27 – How Criminal Networks Support Terror

34:28 – Can Police Tackle Tech-Driven Terror?

40:00 – Surveillance and Apps in Modern Warfare

45:57 – Tackling Sleeper Cells

48:58 – Training Citizens to Recognise Terror

52:24 – Role of the NSG

56:41 – How the CBI Investigates Cases

1:00:09 – Reality of OTT Series

1:02:27 – Police Mental Health & Physical Fitness

1:05:09 – Why Pakistan Isn’t Mentioned in ‘PRAHAAR’

Pankaj Saran is a former diplomat with over 40 years of experience in foreign policy, strategy, and national security. He has served as India’s Ambassador to Russia and Bangladesh, Deputy National Security Adviser, and worked in the Prime Minister’s Office under Dr Manmohan Singh. He has also been posted at the Indian Mission in Washington, D.C. He is currently the Convenor of NatStrat, a Delhi-based independent centre for research on strategic and security issues.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Ambassador Saran explains why India’s silence on the Iran war is being seen as aligning with the US and Israel. He says Pakistan is not a mediator, but a messenger in the conflict. He also talks about how Pakistan built close ties with the Trump administration, and whether India missed a chance to play a bigger role in stopping the war. The conversation also touches on the film Dhurandhar and why India chose not to retaliate after the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

00:53 – West Asia War Overview

05:47 – Decision-Making in War

09:18 – India’s Stand on Iran War

12:16 – LPG Supply Crisis

17:52 – Gulf Nations Under Attack

19:55 – Warfare Strategies

27:41 – Pakistan as Mediator in Iran War

36:26 – Should India Mediate Iran War?

38:44 – Iran’s Global Position

42:26 – China & Russia's stand

58:38 – India’s Strategic Silence

1:04:45 – Can India Build AI Without U.S.?

1:08:57 – Did India Misread Iran Situation?

1:11:29 – 2008 Mumbai Attacks

1:22:45 – Dhurandhar Movie

Manickam Tagore is an Indian National Congress MP representing the Virudhunagar constituency in Tamil Nadu. He serves as Whip of the Congress Party in the Lok Sabha and is the All India Congress Committee in-charge of Andhra Pradesh.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, he discusses the Opposition’s strategy in Parliament, the DMK–Congress alliance, actor Vijay, freebies politics, Congress’ organisational challenges, and the BJP’s presence in Tamil Nadu.

*Timestamps*

00:00 - Introduction

00:22 - Lok Sabha Suspension Revoked

04:25 - DMK–Congress Alliance

08:16 - National Parties in Tamil Nadu

16:28 - Modi vs Rahul Popularity

21:27 - Power Sharing with DMK

26:08 - The Vijay Challenge

35:58 - Tamil Nadu Media

37:21 - Alliance Dynamics in Tamil Nadu

40:24 - Politics of Freebies

46:57 - Rahul as Congress Face

49:42 - Why Rahul Gets Angry

53:50 - Digital Marketing by Political Parties

55:42 - Ravneet Singh Bittu

1:04:28 - Congress Cadre

1:14:23 - Caste Politics in Tamil Nadu

Swaminathan Gurumurthy is the editor of the Tamil political weekly Thuglak. An auditor by training and an ideologue by conviction, he has spent decades at the intersection of economics, politics and civilisational debate. From his investigations into corporate power in the 1980s involving Reliance Industries to his critique of globalisation and role in shaping the intellectual ecosystem of the RSS, he has remained an influential and outspoken voice in India’s public life.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, he discusses the DMK-Congress alliance, actor Vijay, Sanatana Dharma, Tamil Nadu politics and RSS.

Gurumurthy outlines the structural and ideological challenges the BJP faces in Tamil Nadu, shaped by decades of Dravidian politics and alliance-driven electoral dynamics.

He also speaks candidly about Ramnath Goenka, Dhirubhai Ambani, Indira Gandhi-era politics and his clashes with corporate power in India.

Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction

02:14 - Dravidian Politics

14:43 - DMK-Congress Alliance

21:25 - Can Vijay Challenge DMK?

25:42 - Tamil Nadu’s Cultural Ethos

33:56 - Electoral Shifts in Tamil Nadu

40:43 - BJP’s Challenge in Tamil Nadu

48:05 - Tamil Cultural Media

51:46 - Anti-Hindu Politics in Tamil Nadu

55:58 - Story Behind ‘Guru’ Movie

58:51 - Ties with Ramnath Goenka

1:08:20 - Dhirubhai Ambani Investigations

1:10:35 - Advisory Role in Corporate Family Disputes

1:17:12 - Political Engagement Across Parties

1:24:28 - Congress’s Leadership Crisis

1:32:58 - West Asia Conflict

1:39:33 - BJP’s Outreach to Minorities

1:49:03 - Views on the Gandhi Family

1:54:21 - BJP-RSS Coordination

Daniel Benaim served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Arabian Peninsula Affairs at the U.S. State Department. He previously advised President Joe Biden on West Asia policy and has worked at the White House and the U.S. Senate. He also wrote speeches for Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and other senior U.S. officials. He closely follows developments in West Asia and U.S. foreign policy.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Daniel says that the U.S. miscalculated the Iran war and wasn’t fully prepared. He explains how Iran may be “winning without winning”, and why Gulf countries feel let down by the conflict. He also talks about Iran’s use of the Strait of Hormuz as a key lever, and why India’s approach to the crisis appears measured and pragmatic.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

00:52 – Who’s Winning Iran War?

05:36 – Future of Iranian Regime

08:32 – Will U.S. Deploy Troops to Iran?

11:28 – Strait of Hormuz Blockade

14:51 – Future of Alliances in West Asia

19:57 – Will Gulf Nations Attack Iran?

23:00 – Russia & China on Iran War

24:10 – Trump Delays Beijing Visit

25:21 – Did Trump Miscalculate Iran?

30:46 – Biden or Clinton: Response to Iran War

32:35 – Will Iran Surrender?

34:28 – Trump Opening New War Fronts?

37:30 – If Iran Survives, Who Wins?

40:38 – Saudi-Pakistan Ties

44:17 – Do Americans Support Iran War?

49:46 – Iran’s Missile Capacity

52:41 – Did Biden Give $6 Billion to Iran?

55:48 – Iran’s Nuclear Program

58:21 – India’s Stand on Iran War

1:00:39 – Will India Pick a Side in Iran War?

1:04:27 – What Does Saudi Want from Pakistan?

1:06:56 – Who Can Mediate Iran War?

1:08:39 – Will Iranian Regime Survive?

1:10:47 – Who is Face of the Democrats?

1:12:29 – Evolving India-U.S. Ties

What lessons can India learn from the Iran war? How have drones proved to be a game-changer in modern warfare? How is Iran using ‘Shahed’ drones to carry out attacks on Israel and Gulf nations? How can Artificial Intelligence be integrated into defence systems? What impact could this conflict have on the global defence industry? How are Gulf nations looking at their security today?

In this edition of ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Lt Gen Raj Shukla (Retd.), former General Officer Commanding of the Army Training Command and a noted military strategist, answers these questions and explains the changing nature of modern warfare.

00:00 – Coming Up

00:30 – Global Impact of Iran War

04:18 – U.S. Operation Against Maduro

07:14 – U.S. Objectives in Iran

10:53 – U.S. Military Strength

15:20 – Iran’s Counterattack

21:16 – Implications of Iran War

22:27 – Iran’s Shahed Drones

32:07 – U.S.–Israel Tech Alliance

41:34 – India’s Role in Global Tensions

46:45 – China’s High-Tech Warfare

50:14 – India’s Defence System

58:49 – Attack on IRIS Dena

1:00:31 – India’s Strategic Partners

1:10:12 – Iran’s Strikes on the Gulf

1:13:28 – Private Sector in National Security

Kanwal Sibal is a former Foreign Secretary to the Government of India. He has served as India’s Ambassador to Turkey, Egypt, France and Russia, and as Deputy Chief of Mission in Washington DC with the personal rank of Ambassador. He was also a member of India’s National Security Advisory Board from 2008 to 2010. With over 41 years of diplomatic experience, he explains geopolitics and foreign affairs from an Indian perspective.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Ambassador Kanwal Sibal explains how the Israel–U.S. war against Iran could deeply hurt India’s interests in the Gulf. He also discusses why Iran could sink any ship in the Strait of Hormuz and why he believes there is “a huge vacuum in global leadership.”

He also discusses what India should do in the conflict, the sinking of the IRIS Dena, the objectives of the U.S. and Israel in the war, and what the future of security in the Gulf could look like.

00:00 – Introduction

00:35 – India’s Stand on the Iran War

07:29 – Sinking of IRIS Dena

18:12 – PM Modi’s Visit to Israel

23:55 – Iran’s Nuclear Program

28:15 – War with a “Civilizational State”

30:12 – India–U.S. Relations

39:42 – Christopher Landau’s Remarks

43:45 – Why India Needs the Gulf

49:41 – Americans as Partners

56:37 – Russia–Ukraine War

1:00:21 – France’s Nuclear Umbrella

1:02:12 – Which Countries Might Go Nuclear Next?

1:07:30 – Importance of the Strait of Hormuz

1:11:45 – Targeting Fuel Depots in Iran

1:15:05 – Gulf Under Attack

1:18:10 – Possible Outcomes of the Iran War

1:21:42 – How the Iran War Could Affect India

1:25:54 – Global Leadership Crisis

Gautam Gambhir is the Head Coach of the Indian cricket team. Under his leadership, the team has won two major ICC tournaments — the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy and the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. He is the first Indian head coach to win two ICC trophies. Gambhir is also the most successful Indian cricketers in terms of trophies, both as a player and as a coach.

In this edition of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, he speaks about the T20 World Cup win, social media toxicity, honesty with players, ending the superstar culture in the team and what’s next for him.

00:00 - Introduction

00:50 - T20 World Cup Victory

01:52 - How to Handle Critics

04:18 - Handling Social Media Toxicity

06:35 - Being a Coach

08:23 - Playing in Front of Legends

09:30 - Dhoni’s Post for Gambhir & Team

10:50 - Fans’ Expectations

12:56 - India Tailoring Pitches Allegation

14:07 - India’s Power in World Cricket

15:19 - Money Power in Cricket

16:33 - Hanuman Mandir Visit Controversy

18:59 - Backing Sanju Samson

19:52 - Beyond Individual Performance

21:10 - Superstars in the Team

22:30 - Who Offered Head Coach Role?

27:03 - Freedom in the Dressing Room

29:18 - Expectations from Players

32:06 - Who Does Gambhir Listen To?

33:34 - Gambhir on Ashwin's Remarks

35:25 - Achievements as Head Coach

40:02 - Fitness in the Game

43:43 - Mental Makeup During Test Matches

46:37 - The Role of Family

48:44 - Mood in the Dressing Room After Victory

49:56 - First Meal After Victory

50:20 - Diet Discipline in Cricket

51:32 - Planning for the 2027 World Cup

51:56 - Does IPL Drain Players?

52:47 - What’s Next for Gambhir?

53:12 - Will Gambhir Rejoin Politics?

Jon Finer is an international affairs expert and former Principal Deputy National Security Adviser to Jake Sullivan during the presidency of Joe Biden. Before that, he served in the White House under Barack Obama as a White House Fellow, working in the office of the Chief of Staff and the National Security Council. Finer was a foreign and national correspondent for The Washington Post. He reported from more than 20 countries around the world. He also co-hosts “The Long Game,” a weekly national security podcast with Jake Sullivan.

In this edition of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Jon Finer discusses the U.S.–Israel military action against Iran and its strategic implications. He says Donald Trump is creating ambiguity about the real objective of the conflict. According to him, “A U.S. win is unclear and politically difficult to define.” He adds that China is supporting Iran rhetorically, but not militarily. He also warns that this conflict could accelerate global nuclear proliferation. Finer also speaks about India–U.S. ties and America’s growing closeness with Pakistan.

00:00 – Introduction

01:18 – Regime Change in Iran

04:30 – U.S. Objectives in Iran War

07:36 – Gulf Nations Under Attack

14:18 – China Helping Iran in War?

16:39 – U.S.–Iran Nuclear Talks

18:35 – Trump’s War Powers

23:04 – U.S. Nuclear Umbrella

27:23 – U.S.–Pakistan Relations

33:52 – U.S.–India Ties

37:13 – Serving Under Obama & Biden

41:27 – China’s Limited Global Alliances

47:54 – How U.S. Media Portrays India

52:51 – Jeffrey Sachs’ Claims on Jake Sullivan

Dr. Swasti Rao is a geopolitics and defence expert, commentator, and author. She is currently an Associate Professor at the Jindal School of International Studies and a Consulting Editor for Strategic and International Affairs at ThePrint. She explains key geopolitical and security issues from an Indian perspective.

In this edition of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, she discusses what could happen to Iran after Ayatollah Khamenei’s death and how the security structure of Gulf nations might change. She describes Donald Trump as the only U.S. President to have gone this far in supporting Israel, and explains what another war could mean for the Middle East. She also talks about the impact on global oil supplies and what is at stake for India.

00:00 – Introduction

02:05 – The Middle East War

03:51 – Gulf Nations Under Attack

09:09 – Israel’s Objectives in Iran

12:24 – US–Israel Targeting Strategy

16:12 – Did U.S. Abandon GCC Bases?

24:01 – IRGC’s Command Structure

29:48 – Iran’s War Mindset

35:27 – Impact of Khamenei’s Death

37:22 – GCC in Shock After Attacks?

41:57 – What Do Saudi Arabia & Israel Want?

44:41 – Iran–Turkey Ties: What’s Next?

46:29 – Pakistan’s Role

55:33 – The Modi–Netanyahu Meeting

59:00 – Evacuation Plans & Economic Impact on India

1:07:53 – The Roles of China and Russia

1:18:57 – How Long Could This War Last?

Ashish Chauhan is the MD & CEO of the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE). A technocrat from IIT Bombay and IIM Calcutta, he was part of the founding team that built the NSE. He is credited with bringing several key innovations to India’s stock market. He also served as the MD and CEO of the Bombay Stock Exchange for 10 years.

In this edition of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, he speaks about the much-awaited NSE IPO, how the exchange handles cyberattacks, and how the NSE powers India’s stock market. He advises investors to stay away from social media “tips,” shares his views on India’s options market, and discusses the future of de-dollarisation and India’s growing number of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).

00:00 – Introduction

00:42 – What Does NSE Do?

06:35 – How NSE Earns Revenue

09:16 – How NSE Powers India’s Stock Market

15:18 – Regulations in Capital Markets

20:02 – NSE IPO Coming Soon?

27:56 – NSE Co-Location Scam

33:12 – 1992 Harshad Mehta Scam

39:23 – India’s Options Market

44:55 – NSE’s Investor Awareness Initiatives

47:29 – Why India Bans Prediction Markets

50:45 – How NSE Survives Cyberattacks

57:29 – Challenges as NSE MD

1:02:09 – Future of De-Dollarisation

1:06:55 – India’s FTAs

1:16:04 – Modinomics vs Manmohanomics

1:23:42 – NSE’s Vision for Viksit Bharat 2047

Abhinav Pandya is an author and scholar who has studied the concept of jihad in great depth. He has also advised the former Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Satya Pal Malik, on security matters.

In this edition of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, the conversation focuses on the challenges India faces as a target of global jihad. With what appears to be an emerging axis involving Turkey, Pakistan, China and even Bangladesh, is India facing a larger strategic encirclement?

Is Kashmir the central objective, or is the target much bigger, the whole of India? And most importantly, what must India do to counter this jihadist strategy?

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

01:15 – Balochistan Uprising

05:15 – Pakistan’s Double Standards

09:03 – How the ISI Controls Pakistan

13:39 – The Core Issue of Kashmir

15:46 – Pak’s Interference in Kashmir’s Politics

21:53 – Pakistan-Sponsored Terrorism

25:08 – Entire India Pakistan’s Target?

32:23 – Pakistan’s Foreign Relations

35:11 – Pakistan–Bangladesh Ties

40:12 – Global Superpower vs Civilizational Power

43:06 – South Asia & the Ottoman Empire

47:32 – Hybrid Militancy in Kashmir

53:05 – Al-Falah University’s Terror Links

1:00:47 – Militancy in Kashmir

1:06:07 – How Should India Tackle Terrorism?

1:15:25 – Satya Pal Malik’s “Fax Machine” Story

1:23:34 – Kashmir After Article 370

1:27:36 – How to Deal with Terrorism

1:29:26 – West Asia Conflict Explained

1:32:52 – Operation Sindoor

1:34:52 – Khalistan

From OTP scams and phone data leaks to AI misuse and digital warfare, how safe are we really? Cybersecurity affects you, your family, your workplace, and even the country you live in. Amit Dubey is a national security expert and cybersecurity specialist. He has worked closely with Indian government agencies and police departments on cybercrime investigations. In this edition of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, he explains how AI is being misused for fraud and scams, and breaks down China’s digital warfare strategy and India’s cybersecurity reality in simple terms.

00:00 – Introduction

01:01 – U.S. Cyberattack on Venezuela

05:38 – How to Stop Deepfakes

12:58 – Legal Action on AI

14:26 – A Great Firewall for India?

17:43 – Deepfakes Influencing Elections

22:10 – AI and Voter Fraud

26:55 – Risks of Posting Personal Details

32:24 – How Personal Information Is Exploited

37:02 – Credit Card Scams

40:58 – OTP Scams & Password Theft

48:00 – Sancharsathi App Controversy

58:14 – Protecting Private Photos Online

1:01:20 – Can EVMs Be Hacked?

1:07:49 – Hybrid War Threats

1:10:44 – Gen Z Protests & Disinformation

1:14:04 – Spreading Disinformation Online

1:20:19 – Cyber Attacks During Op Sindoor

1:22:47 – Foreign SIMs & Cyber Threats

1:26:32 – Agniveer Protest & Fake SMS

1:30:02 – AI Videos Targeting India

1:35:08 – Influencers Spreading Fake Content

John Brittas wears many hats: parliamentarian, journalist, Managing Director and Chief Editor of Malayalam Communications Limited, which runs Kairali TV and Kairali News. He is currently the CPI(M) Parliamentary Party Leader in the Rajya Sabha.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, he speaks about the decline of communism in India and across the world, and why the Left struggles to connect with a wider audience today. He discusses the Kerala model, migration from the state, and Kerala’s social harmony.

He argues that Hindutva politics will not click in Kerala and says the BJP is unlikely to become a major force there in the near future. He also speaks about the Congress and claims it continues to follow a “right-wing economic ideology.”

The conversation also covers the India–US trade deal, the 2008 nuclear deal, the UPA era, Pinarayi Vijayan’s leadership, and the strength of Malayalam cinema.

00:00 – Introduction

01:11 – Why Communism is Failing in India

10:38 – Kerala’s Vibrant Culture

12:28 – How CPI(M) Is So Powerful in Kerala

23:55 – India–US Nuclear Deal

26:15 – India–US Trade Deal

33:08 – The Kerala Ecosystem

36:16 – Why Kerala Supports the Left

40:57 – Can Kerala Inspire a Left Revival?

43:23 – BJP’s Prospects in Kerala

52:55 – Religious Harmony in Kerala

58:20 – BJP’s Mayoral Win

1:05:14 – Life as a Journalist

1:10:56 – Malayalam Cinema

1:14:49 – Political Leadership in India

1:15:56 – Pinarayi Vijayan’s Leadership Style

Karti Chidambaram is an Indian National Congress MP representing the Sivaganga constituency in Tamil Nadu.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, he discusses the Parliament Budget Session, DMK-Congress alliance, Actor Vijay, freebies politics, money laundering investigations against him, and BJP’s presence in Tamil Nadu.

He also addresses the Dhurandhar controversy and his alleged cameo in it, highlighting the absence of official records related to it.

*Timestamps*

00:00 – Introduction

01:47 – Parliament Deadlock

12:33 – Congress-DMK Alliance

20:04 – Congress in Tamil Nadu

25:30 – BJP-AIADMK Alliance

31:09 – Anti-Incumbency Against DMK

37:36 – Legal Cases & Investigations

43:40 – Sonia’s Role in UPA

47:27 – Sanatana Debate

51:23 – Freebie Politics

59:09 – Dhurandhar Controversy

1:05:16 – KYC, Re-KYC & Citizen Rights

1:11:13 – Family-Centric Politics

1:15:31 – Relations with Rahul Gandhi

1:16:26 – Snap Reactions

1:23:47 – Bonding with Father

1:32:09 – South Indian Food

Nayab Singh Saini, the Chief Minister of Haryana, led the BJP to win a third term in the state, despite predictions of anti-incumbency against the party.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, CM Saini talks about the key issues shaping Haryana’s future, including farmers, job creation, and women’s safety.

He also shares his vision for the development of Gurugram, focusing on better urban planning, improved drainage systems, and long-term growth for the city.

00:00 – Introduction

00:52 – No Anti-Incumbency in Haryana

08:51 – Promises Made During the Polls

13:27 – Farmers’ Protest

18:08 – Crop Diversification in Haryana

23:27 – Youth Skill Development & Women’s Safety

26:06 – Gurugram’s Development

28:28 – Punjab’s Drug Crisis

35:49 – Jobs and Employment

40:05 – Lado Lakshmi Yojana

41:52 – Welfare Schemes

44:38 – Yamuna Poison Controversy

Can gaming addiction push kids toward serious mental health crises? Does social media influence increase vulnerability to anxiety and depression in teens?

To answer these questions, we are joined by Dr. Bhavna Barmi and Anshu Bedi. Dr. Bhavna Barmi is a Senior Clinical and Child Psychologist and the founder of Happiness Studio.

Anshu Bedi is a teacher at Raghubir Singh Junior Modern School with over 32 years of experience mentoring preteens.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Dr. Bhavna Barmi explains that signs of stress or distress in children should never be ignored.

Anshu Bedi talks about how many parents today expect perfection from their children and stresses that this can leave them unprepared for real-world challenges.

00:00 – Introduction

01:04 – Mental Health Challenges Among Kids

07:32 – Holistic Development of Children

11:32 – Attention Span Issues in Students

15:07 – Modern Parent-Teacher Connections

18:10 – Bullying and Peer Pressure

21:27 – Emotional Signals in Children

25:13 – Academic Stress in Children

29:50 – Reduced Family Interaction on Children

34:36 – Consequences of Body Shaming

40:38 – Happiness Clinics & Mental Health Support

42:54 – Social Media Impact on Young Minds

49:52 – Current Parenting Challenges

1:05:56 – Emotional Stress in Counsellors

Rekha Gupta is the Chief Minister of Delhi, following the BJP's return to power in the capital after 27 years. Her political journey began with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP).

She is an elected MLA from the Shalimar Bagh constituency and has previously served as General Secretary of the BJP Mahila Morcha in Delhi. She was also a member of the party’s national executive committee.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, CM Rekha Gupta speaks about Delhi’s pollution and her government’s plans to tackle it. She also discusses key priorities, including better public transport, stronger last-mile connectivity, and her vision for a cleaner, better-governed Delhi.

*Timestamps*

00:00 – Coming Up

00:00 – Introduction

01:13 – One Year as Delhi CM

03:42 – Delhi’s Pollution Crisis

08:36 – Dust Mitigation Measures

10:26 – Garbage Mountains

13:44 – Waste Treatment Plants

15:01 – Solutions to Delhi’s Air Pollution

17:51 – Lunch for Slum Dwellers

20:45 – ‘Sheesh Mahal’ Controversy

21:51 – School Admissions & Fee Regulation

27:46 – School Safety & Monitoring

31:14 – Expectations of Delhi Residents

33:31 – Healthcare System

37:10 – Parks for Children

38:49 – Public Washrooms & Civic Sense

43:29 – Hospital Bed Allocation

45:55 – Two Female CMs Among 28 States

47:01 – Being a Woman Leader

53:38 – Priorities as Chief Minister

Neena Gupta is a versatile actress and author, known for playing a wide range of characters. She won the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress for 'Woh Chokri' and 'Uunchai'.

Sanjay Mishra is loved for his humour and strong comic timing. He is well known for films like Golmaal, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, Total Dhamaal, and Dilwale. He has also received praise for his serious roles in films like 'Aankhon Dekhi' and 'Vadh'.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Sanjay Mishra talks about being repeatedly cast in comic roles and how this typecasting has affected his career. He also shares his thoughts on changing audience tastes and why many films today feel overly loud and exaggerated.

Neena Gupta speaks about her journey from Delhi to Mumbai, describing those early days as scary and lonely. She talks honestly about her struggles in the film industry and the advice she gave her daughter, Masaba Gupta. Both actors also discuss their upcoming film Vadh 2, which releases in theatres on February 6.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

00:37 – Neena Gupta’s on-screen appearance

02:35 – Eating habits during film shoots

06:09 – Story behind ‘Vadh’ title

12:29 – Sanjay Mishra’s ‘cool’ avatar

14:57 – Neena Gupta’s viral family post

17:53 – Neena Gupta’s education at NSD

21:10 – Evolution of Hindi cinema

25:30 – Neena Gupta’s career turning point

29:27 – Art cinema vs mainstream cinema

32:03 – Late success in acting career

40:45 – Elderly care in India & abroad

43:31 – Neena Gupta’s early struggles in Mumbai

47:38 – Typecasting in Films

51:12 – Neena Gupta on Acting in ‘Gandhi’

55:58 – Initial TV Work of Neena Gupta

59:58 – Impactful Roles of Sanjay Mishra

1:05:28 – Characters in ‘Vadh 2’

UGC Regulations 2026 are witnessing protests in North India with General Category students raising concerns that these rules could increase discrimination. They also worry about weak safeguards against false complaints and unclear mechanisms for addressing their grievances.

What is the purpose and scope of the UGC Equity Regulations? Are the protests against the new regulations organic? How do the new regulations differ from the 2012 regulations?

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Dr. Vikas Divyakirti, founder and MD of Drishti IAS, answers it all.

00:00 – Introduction

02:58 – UGC 2026 Regulations

10:48 – Implicit Discrimination Concerns

13:47 – Equity Committee Structure

21:10 – Bias in Faculty Hiring

28:28 – Social Reform in Education

37:47 – General Category & Marginalised Sections

42:09 – Inequality in Indian Society

47:51 – Merit-Based Selection

55:04 – Caste & Social Bias in Education

59:60 – Explicit & Implicit Discrimination

1:03:55 – Caste Discrimination Complaints

1:09:33 – Discrimination Definition

1:15:28 – Caste Representation in Academia

1:23:12 – Political Debate on New UGC Guidelines

1:26:18 – Gen Z in India

1:41:03 – Caste Representation

1:53:38 – BJP & Upper-Caste Vote Bank

1:58:26 – Reservation Debate

2:02:20 – “Batenge to Katenge” Slogan

2:09:42 – Caste-Sensitive Politics

Rajeev Shukla is often described as one of India’s most well-connected public figures. Jokingly, many call him ‘Omnipresent’ Rajeev Shukla. Over the years, he has built friendships across political party lines and developed close ties with Bollywood stars, leading businessmen, and cricketers alike.

In a career spanning nearly four decades, Rajeev Shukla has worn many hats. He began his professional journey as a journalist in Kanpur. Today, he represents the Congress party in the Rajya Sabha. He has also served as a Minister of State in a Congress-led government, is currently the Vice President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), and has earlier been the Chairman of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Rajeev Shukla reflects on why he is often called “everyone’s friend” and how he has managed to maintain relationships across political divides. He speaks about his early days in journalism, his association with the Gandhi family, and his decision to join the Congress party. He also shares his deep love for cricket and fondly recalls his time as the manager of the Indian cricket team.

Indrani Bagchi is the CEO of Ananta Centre, a platform for dialogue, leadership, and public policy. She has many years of experience covering the Ministry of External Affairs and is known for explaining global events from an Indian point of view. Earlier, she served as the Diplomatic Editor at The Times of India.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Indrani Bagchi talks about how Donald Trump’s policies have changed America. She says the U.S. tariffs on India feel personal and explains how India should respond. She also points out that Europe has been hit the hardest by Trump’s foreign policy. According to her, the forces Trump has unleashed in America will not disappear anytime soon.

Timestamps

0:00 – Introduction

1:21 – The West vs China

6:21 – How Pakistan Balances USA and China

11:33 – China’s Influence in Asia

16:49 – Trump’s MAGA Worldview

23:01 – China’s Economic Leverage

36:57 – Why India Needs ‘MIGA’ Movement

42:02 – India as Counterbalance to China

55:08 – Indian diaspora vs Chinese diaspora influence

1:04:24 – India’s Flexible Foreign Policy

1:16:22 – India’s Long-Term Vision for US

Gaddam Dharmendra is a former Indian Foreign Service officer who joined the service in 1990. He served in senior diplomatic roles for over three decades and was India’s Ambassador to Iran from 2019 to 2023. He is known for his deep understanding of West Asia, sanctions, and regional politics.

Dr Waiel Awwad is a Syrian-born journalist based in South Asia who covers Middle East affairs. He has reported from several war zones. During the 2003 US invasion of Iraq, he was caught in an ambush while reporting from the ground and narrowly escaped execution. Also joining the podcast is ANI Director Ishaan Prakash.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, the guests discuss the Iran crisis and the future of the Khamenei regime. They talk about possible US intervention, whether Iran’s Khamenei regime could fall, and who might take over if that happens. The conversation also examines what the people of Iran truly want and how today’s protests differ from the 1979 Iranian Revolution.

00:00 — Introduction

01:13 — Inside Iran’s Protests

12:42 — Gulf States Against US Strike Over Iran

16:35 — Trump’s Appeal to Iranian Protesters

22:09 — Iran Regime Change Soon?

25:08 — Iranian Institutions

27:50 — Iran’s Nuclear Program

37:28 — US-Iran Negotiation Talks

48:25 — The Iran–Israel Conflict

51:10 — US Sanctions on Iran

57:20 — US Media Coverage of Iran

1:06:28 — Pro-Government Rallies in Iran

1:13:45 — Iran’s Economic Crisis

Sukanta Majumdar is a Lok Sabha MP from Balurghat and serves as Union Minister of State for Education and Development of the North Eastern Region in the NDA government.

In this episode of The ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Sukanta Majumdar discusses the high-stakes politics of West Bengal ahead of the 2026 polls.

He claims that Bengal government documents were found at Pratik Jain’s residence, whose company, I-PAC, handles the political campaign of the TMC.

Sukanta also speaks about West Bengal’s changing demographics and their political impact, concerns over democracy under the TMC and the Left’s alleged alignment with the TMC.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

00:57 – ED vs Mamata over I-PAC Raids

06:42 – President’s Rule in Bengal?

10:02 – Bengali vs Non-Bengali Politics

14:42 – Infiltration in West Bengal

20:45 – Demographic Changes in Bengal

24:33 – Who Will Be BJP’s CM Face?

29:32 – Amartya Sen and SIR Controversy

34:59 – Jobs Crisis in Bengal

38:42 – Rise of New Parties in Bengal Politics

42:16 – Industrial Decline in Bengal

50:28 – Post-Poll Violence in Bengal

56:55 – BJP’s Roadmap for 2026 Bengal Polls

Ambassador Ashok Sajjanhar served in the Indian Foreign Service for over three decades. During his distinguished career, he served as India’s Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Sweden, and Latvia, and held key diplomatic assignments in Washington, D.C., Brussels, Moscow, Geneva, Tehran, Dhaka, and Bangkok. Today, Ambassador Sajjanhar regularly writes and speaks on issues related to international relations and India’s foreign policy.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Ambassador Sajjanhar discusses the United States’ actions in Venezuela and what this means for global politics. He also talks about Chinese weaponry, which he claims failed to perform during the Venezuelan crisis. The conversation further explores why Indian godmen enjoy a massive following in South American countries, a phenomenon that often surprises many.

Ambassador Sajjanhar also shares his views on Donald Trump’s interest in buying Greenland, the way the US is handling trade negotiations with India, and what the future may hold for India’s foreign policy.

00:00 – Introduction

01:08 – US move to capture Maduro legitimate?

04:33 – Narco-terrorism charges against Venezuela

05:54 – When US captured Manuel Noriega (1989)

08:27 – Can the US run Venezuela?

11:41 – Venezuela is not just about oil

15:21 – Venezuela & Sathya Sai Baba connection

17:54 – Can Trump buy Greenland?

20:17 – Europe on Venezuela crisis & Greenland

24:31 – Putin’s war in Ukraine legitimate?

26:20 – China’s weapons failed in Venezuela

29:05 – China vs USA: The No. 1 global rivalry

34:00 – Will China invade Taiwan?

37:10 – India’s response to Maduro's capture

41:54 – India’s crude oil needs

44:19 – India–USA trade tensions

50:14 – India’s pivot towards China

52:28 – China–Pakistan–Bangladesh nexus

J. Sai Deepak is a senior advocate at the Supreme Court of India and a well-known author. His books include 'India, That Is Bharat: Coloniality, Civilisation, Constitution' and 'India, Bharat and Pakistan: The Constitutional Journey of a Sandwiched Civilisation.'

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, J. Sai Deepak talks about the demographic changes taking place in India’s border areas and how these shifts could impact India’s democracy, governance and policy-making. He explains why India needs a special Immigration Task Force to deal with the issue of illegal immigration.

He also discusses the SIR controversy, the North-South divide and also describes demography as the last battle to protect Hindu civilisation and warns that India cannot afford to take this issue lightly.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

01:22 – SIR Exercise Across India

06:47 – Illegal Migrants in West Bengal

14:04 – Mamata’s Stance on Illegal Migrants

20:05 – Politics Around Illegal Migration

24:42 – How India’s Border Areas Have Changed

31:00 – How India Can Address Illegal Migration

32:55 – Pawan Kalyan’s Political Influence

34:18 – North–South Population Debate

40:33 – The North–South Divide

46:11 – Tax Devolution in India

52:09 – How Owaisi Won Seats in Bihar

59:07 – Left vs Right Wing

01:04:02 – Oxford Union Debate Controversy

01:12:43 – Demographics and Cultural Debates

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, we are joined by Constantino Xavier, Senior Fellow in Foreign Policy and Security Studies at the Centre for Social and Economic Progress (CSEP), and Dinkar Srivastava, former diplomat and Distinguished Fellow at the Vivekananda International Foundation.

They discuss the upcoming elections in Bangladesh, the future of the Awami League, and the role of Sheikh Hasina. The conversation also revolves around at growing concerns about minorities, including Hindus in Bangladesh. Is there a rising wave of Islamisation? And how should India move forward in its ties with Dhaka?

Pakistan is also in focus. The guests talk about the rise of Asim Munir, the new boss of all things military and nuclear in Pakistan. Can the threat of another terror attack from Pakistan be ruled out?

The episode also explores how China and the United States are shaping choices in South Asia, and what India’s response should be in a changing regional scenario.

00:00 – Introduction

01:45 – Why Asim Munir Took CDF Role

05:54 – The Fall of Pervez Musharraf

07:43 – Can Pakistan Attack India Again?

15:03 – Will Bangladesh Hold Elections in February 2026?

25:37 – Imran Khan vs Asim Munir

32:39 – Rising Islamisation in Bangladesh

44:20 – Rohingya Crisis Explained

47:15 – Role of Pakistan Army in Politics

51:03 – When ISI Trained Guns on Dinkar Srivastava

01:11:40 – Anti-India Sentiment in Bangladesh

01:23:50 – India as the Standard in Pakistan

01:30:15 – India’s Neighbourhood Strategy

Gaur Gopal Das is a life coach, author, and motivational speaker. He studied at the College of Engineering, Pune, and briefly worked with Hewlett Packard. Soon after, he chose a very different path and became a monk and has been living in an ashram in Mumbai for the past 26 years.

Over the years, he has studied ancient Indian philosophy along with modern psychology. For more than two decades, he has travelled across the world, sharing his thoughts with students, professionals, charities, and institutions. He has also spoken at the United Nations.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Gaur Gopal Das talks about whether religion and spirituality can be separated, and whether marriage is becoming an outdated idea. He shares insights into the life of a monk and explains why he chose this path.

In this New Year special episode, he also speaks about the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and explains, in simple terms, what dharma truly means.

00:00 – Introduction

00:52 – Life of a Monk

07:56 – Understanding Spirituality

14:30 – Why Monks Wear Orange?

19:29 – Controlling Desires

23:03 – Dealing with Anger

30:49 – Spirituality vs Religion

34:38 – Power of Chanting Mantras

45:25 – Why Modi Gifted Gita to Putin?

57:39 – Who Should One Read Gita

01:03:33 – Spirituality and Politics

01:09:47 – Living with Differences

01:12:36 – Gen X vs Gen Z

01:17:43 – India and Its Adversaries

01:25:09 – Parenting in Digital Times

01:36:26 – Importance of Family Love

01:38:42 – Marriage an Outdated Concept?

01:46:33 – Gaur Gopal Das Married?

01:50:43 – How Relationships Grow

01:54:51 – Fixing Broken Relationships

02:00:04 – Couples Staying Together for Children

02:07:15 – Real vs Fake Gurus

02:09:44 – Handling Others’ Pain

02:14:36 – Does Fame Change Friends?

02:19:02 – Healthy Habits for Life

Sanjeev Sanyal is a historian, economist, author, and currently serves as a member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister of India.

In this edition of the Podcast with Smita Prakash, he uncovers colonial ‘lies’ in India’s history. He talks about his project on INSV Kaundinya, showcasing India’s ancient maritime exploration.

He speaks on the IndiGo crisis, freebies, pensions, and the future of India’s economy. He also explains urban challenges in Indian cities and GDP measurement tools.

*Timestamps*

00:00 – Introduction

01:08 – INSV Kaundinya Sailing Vessel History

04:54 – Sailing Training for INSV Kaundinya

09:12 – The Forgotten Chapters of Indian History

13:53 – Kalinga War & The Myths About Ashoka

16:55 – Indian History and Language

18:58 – India vs Big Tech: The Battle for Narrative

31:13 – Can India Build Its Own Tech Platforms?

33:44 – Indian Democracy

37:12 – The West on India’s Growth

41:42 – India Growing Without Creating Enough Jobs?

46:05 – India’s Skill Development in the 20th Century

51:44 – Universalisation of Education & NEP

53:32 – Bureaucracy & the Changing World

01:00:09 – Delhi Pollution

01:04:40 – Infrastructure Crisis in India

01:07:54 – Millionaires Leaving India

01:10:55 – Indigo Crisis & Monopoly Problem

01:11:53 – India’s Financial System

01:15:58 – Impact of Freebies & Pensions

01:22:03 – India’s Role in the Global Power Order

01:27:25 – Is India’s GDP Data Reliable?

The much-awaited episode of The ‘Real’ Samosa Caucus –Edition 7.0 is here, packed with raw, uncensored, and no-holds-barred conversations.

Joining the panel 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 issues like illegal immigration and demographic changes, rising radicalisation in Bangladesh, the Vande Mataram debate, the SIR showdown, internal security threats and India’s foreign policy challenges.

The panel also talks about propaganda in cinema, marriage in the modern world, and much more.

Don’t miss the sharp arguments and witty banter in this episode!

*Timestamps*

00:00 – Introduction

06:00 – Kangana, Mahua & Supriya at Jindal Wedding

11:48 – India’s Road Safety Crisis

18:35 – TV Panelists vs Anchors

28:36 – The ‘Godi Media’ Label

41:06 – Demography vs Democracy

48:28 – Congress Leadership & Rahul Gandhi

01:01:15 – India’s Education System

01:16:20 – Hindu Temples

01:26:48 – Islam in India

01:35:03 – Radicalism in Bangladesh

01:48:17 – Idea of Marriage in India

01:59:31 – Media & Celebrity Culture

02:10:20 – Putin’s Visit to India

02:22:45 – Karnataka Hate Speech Bill

02:30:18 – Hybrid Threats & Internal Radicalisation

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, we are joined by Lt. Col. Pavithran Rajan, a former intelligence officer, academic, and tech entrepreneur, and Ambassador Anil Trigunayat, a former Indian Foreign Service officer and Distinguished Fellow at the Vivekananda International Foundation.

Together, they discuss India’s narrative war against Pakistan and why winning this battle is crucial. Should India’s armed forces have a dedicated team to counter Pakistani propaganda in real time? Why does India still lack a strong and organised information-warfare system? How can India protect its global image?

They also examine how Western think tanks publish anti-India reports that shape global opinion, and how India should respond.

00:00 – Introduction

01:17 – India vs Pak: Information Warfare

07:06 – India vs Pak: Social Media Battle

11:57 – India’s Fact-Checking System

18:34 – Information Warfare: What Should India Do?

23:10 – India vs Pak Narrative During War

27:24 – Red Fort Attack & GPS Spoofing

33:00 – Sanchar Saathi App & Surveillance Concerns

40:54 – Phone Tapping

44:56 – How Terror Networks Avoid Detection

46:23 – Freedom of Speech vs National Security

50:24 – Open-Source Intelligence and Data Leaks

53:13 – National Security Rules for Tech Companies

56:10 – Disinformation During Operation Sindoor

01:00:18 – Western Media Bias Against India

01:03:48 – Rise of Anti-Drone Systems

01:06:28 – India’s Drone Challenge

01:13:06 – Gaps in Internal Security

01:16:01 – Grey-Zone Tactics & Diplomacy

01:17:33 – Role of AI in Information Warfare

01:22:36 – Need for a Unified Tech Framework

01:26:29 – Hybrid Warfare Challenges with Pakistan

01:28:19 – Possibility of Operation Sindoor 2?

01:31:26 – Public Trust & Security Strategy

Bina Ramani is a fashion designer, author, and entrepreneur. She pioneered India’s boutique culture, played a key role in shaping Delhi’s Hauz Khas Village, and was a key witness in the Jessica Lal case.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Bina Ramani recalls memories of the Kapoor family, including Raj Kapoor, and speaks about her romantic association with Shammi Kapoor. She also talks about her friendship with Rekha and her role in introducing her to Mukesh Agarwal.

Bina Ramani shares anecdotes from her interactions with Indira Gandhi, including gifting her jewellery. She also reflects on her encounters with global icons such as Jackie Onassis and Yoko Ono.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

01:29 – Breaking Years of Silence

02:37 – 'Bird in a Banyan Tree' & the Night of 1999

08:02 – The Jessica Lal Murder Case

17:42 – Allegations of Evidence Tampering

21:31 – Tihar Jail and the Reopening of the Case

24:15 – How Fame Turned into Public Backlash

26:25 – Media Trial & ‘No One Killed Jessica’ Movie

28:49 – When Bollywood Sidelined Bina Ramani

31:17 – Life Inside Tihar Jail

36:44 – Ram Jethmalani and the Turning Point

44:43 – The End of ‘Page 3’ Culture

49:52 – Early Life & Raj Kapoor

56:28 – Relationship with Shammi Kapoor

01:06:16 – Why Shammi Kapoor Lived for His Audience

01:08:27 – Binatone: A Product Named After Bina Ramani

01:11:32 – Marriage, Affairs, and Turmoil

01:19:37 – Her Career with the Taj Group

01:22:12 – The Man Bina Ramani Connected with the Most

01:36:11 – Who Was Pamela Bordes?

01:44:06 – What Made Asha Puthli a Global Icon?

01:51:46 – Interviewing Indira Gandhi

01:58:24 – Chandraswami and Spiritual Scams

02:08:06 – Money Laundering and the FBI Probe

02:13:28 – Rekha’s Marriage to Mukesh Agarwal

02:23:06 – What Led to Mukesh Agarwal’s Suicide?

02:26:56 – Battling Cancer and Finding ‘Malabar Secrets’

Taran Adarsh is a leading film trade analyst and renowned critic. With decades of experience, he is considered one of the most trusted voices on box office trends and reviews.

Bhawana Somaaya is an Indian film journalist, critic, author and historian. She was conferred the Padma Shri in 2017. She has written over 13 books on Hindi cinema and iconic Bollywood personalities.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Taran Adarsh exposes how social-media armies and personalised PR machinery are creating a new kind of burden on Hindi cinema. He explains how actors’ ‘big’ egos and reduced director control are hurting Bollywood today.

Bhawana Somaaya talks about writing on Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini, showing how stars bounce back from setbacks. She shares untold stories about Dharmendra and Yash Chopra and reflects on how Bollywood has changed since the 1970s.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

01:00 – PR Culture in Bollywood

06:23 – Hema Malini–Dharmendra’s Marriage

12:58 – Rajshri Films & ‘Hum Aapke Hain Koun’ Review

17:31 – Inside Raj Kapoor’s RK Studios

22:01 – Generational Changes in Bollywood

27:25 – Jaya Bachchan and the Paparazzi

31:54 – Books on Amitabh Bachchan

37:43 – Box Office Truths

41:27 – ‘Saiyaara’ Review

42:01 – Honest Reviews vs Actor ‘Ego’

46:02 – Evolution of Film Reviews

52:02 – Influencers & Media Credibility

57:42 – Impact of AI and Social Media on Film Criticism

1:02:19 – Modern Trend of Entourages

1:05:39 – Evolution of Audience Preferences

1:14:04 – Theatre Experience vs OTT Viewing

Talmiz Ahmad is one of India’s most experienced diplomats, with decades of work across West Asia, the Gulf, and global strategic affairs. A former Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the UAE, he has watched world politics change from the front row.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Ambassador Ahmad breaks down India–Russia ties and why the West is rattled by New Delhi’s independent foreign policy. He explains the new Saudi–Pakistan defence pact, China’s growing influence in the Gulf, and what these changes mean for India.

He also discusses India’s role in the Middle East, the Israel–Gaza war, and why the era of unquestioned Western power may be ending.

00:00 – Introduction

01:04 – Takeaways from Putin’s India Visit

05:58 – India’s Strategic Autonomy

11:06 – Why the USA is Rattled

14:48 – Conflicts in the Middle East

23:45 – How the USA Broke the World Order

39:24 – Saudi–Pakistan Defence Pact

45:02 – Middle East’s View on India–Pakistan

47:13 – Saudi Arabia’s Fight Against Terror

52:09 – India’s Fight Against Terrorism

Madhuri Dixit is one of the film icons that India has loved for over four decades. From Mohini in 'Tezaab' to Nisha in 'Hum Aapke Hain Koun' and Chandramukhi in 'Devdas', her characters live on in people’s memories. Her dance, her expressions, her screen presence, they shaped an entire generation of moviegoers.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Madhuri Dixit opens up like never before. She talks about being booed at IIT Bombay, then dancing for 1.5 hours, her legendary partnership with Saroj Khan and working with Yash Chopra and Sanjay Leela Bhansali.

She also speaks about MF Husain visiting her home in Denver, her first meeting with Dr Nene, shifting to the US, pay parity, and her take on the 8-hour shift debate.

And for the first time in her 40-year career, Madhuri plays a serial killer in 'Mrs Deshpande', releasing on JioCinema on December 19. She tells us what went into creating this raw and intense character.

This podcast shows that behind the superstar is someone curious, grounded, and always ready to try something new.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

01:38 – Acting Journey

04:12 – Family Support for Joining Films

05:16 – Bond with Saroj Khan

08:07 – Working with Directors & Crew

10:27 – Actors Who Dance Well

13:54 – Were Karisma and Aishwarya Competitors?

17:12 – Women-Centric Roles

20:36 – Playing a Serial Killer in Mrs. Deshpande

24:44 – How OTT Has Changed Cinema

27:23 – Taking a Break from Acting

33:56 – Acting Then vs Now

37:44 – Women Actors on Set

40:25 – Remembering Dharmendra

41:26 – Sanjay Dutt & the Khalnayak Shoot

44:18 – Who Helps Madhuri Choose Her Roles Now?

49:32 – Has Social Media Killed Stardom?

57:24 – Will Madhuri Join Politics?

58:49 – Films vs OTT: What Changed?

Namrata Soni is one of India’s most celebrated makeup artists. Over the last two decades, she has worked with the biggest names in the industry and even built her own beauty brand, 'Simply Nam'.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast, she talks about her early years, when female makeup artists were banned from working in Bollywood. She shares how Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan stood by her. Namrata also breaks down the truth about skincare, the Korean-skin myth, and why simple routines work best in India.

Namrata Soni also did the makeup for the bride at the viral Udaipur wedding, which is being called the “wedding of the year” because of its star-studded guest list and the number of Bollywood celebrities who attended.

Watch this podcast to know the real truth about skincare and makeup in India.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

00:32 – The Myth of ‘Korean Skin’

01:33 – Skincare Steps to Avoid if You Have Fillers

03:42 – The 10-Step Skincare Routine

06:53 – The Right Age to Start Your Skincare Journey

06:22 – The No-Makeup Look & Celebrities

11:36 – Unrealistic Expectations of Brides

14:16 – Top Celebrities Namrata Has Worked With

15:43 – Working With International Icons

16:38 – The Reality of the ‘No-Makeup Makeup Look’

18:05 – Why Skin Prep Is Key Before Makeup

20:05 – Sonam Kapoor’s Bridal Looks

22:52 – The Pressure of Walking Into a Makeup Store

29:35 – Being Banned by the Union

32:05 – Gender Bias in Bollywood

41:02 – Delhi vs Mumbai Fashion

Dr. (Col) Joy Dev Mukherji is one of India’s top neurologists with over 28 years of experience. After serving in the Armed Forces Medical Services, he joined Max Healthcare in 2006, where he continues to practice as a senior neurologist.

He has spoken at medical forums across India and abroad, published several research papers, and received many honours, including the Chief of Army Staff’s Commendation Medal.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast, Dr Mukherji explains why young adults are increasingly getting strokes and what causes them. He also talks about the reality of yoga, the impact of air pollution, and how recreational drugs are harming the youth. Furthermore, he shares what the government needs to focus on to improve healthcare in India.

00:00 – Introduction

01:00 – Strokes in Young Adults

02:53 – Can a Neck Massage Cause a Stroke?

04:16 – Early Warning Signs of Stroke

06:39 – What Can Save the Brain During a Stroke

08:06 – What To Do in a Stroke Emergency

11:50 – Genetics, Diabetes & Stroke Risk

12:23 – Pollution, Dementia & Stroke Link

16:33 – Party Drugs, Energy Drinks

20:10 – Heat Stroke vs. Brain Stroke

22:40 – Is Migraine a Warning Sign?

26:06 – Work–Life Balance & Discipline

27:45 – The Junk Food Trap

31:24 – Memory Lapses & Dementia

34:56 – Rapid-Fire Session

46:46 – Alzheimer's Disease

49:46 – Are Phones Destroying Kids?

56:00 – Nicotine’s Invisible Damage

58:16 – India’s Health Policies

01:01:09 – Is Healthcare Becoming a Business?

01:03:11 – What Made Dr Mukherji Stay in India?

01:04:59 – The Future of Brain Science

Himani Shivpuri is famous for playing motherly and memorable character roles in Hindi Cinema. She has acted in many hit films like Hum Aapke Hain Koun, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Hero No. 1, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Bandhan, and Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Himani Shivpuri shares fun stories about Govinda. She talks about special moments from the sets of Hum Aapke Hain Koun and recalls behind-the-scenes memories from DDLJ.

She also speaks about the reality of theatre. She says that Hindi theatre pays very little, which is why actors often need other jobs. In comparison, Marathi and Gujarati theatre have stronger audiences and pay much better.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

01:12 – From Theatre to Cinema

02:45 – Hum Aapke Hain Koun & DDLJ Breakthrough

10:34 – 'Humrahi' on Doordarshan

20:00 – Working with YRF, Karan Johar & Sooraj Barjatya

22:42 – Why Actors Quit Hindi Theatre

25:48 – Govinda on Set

32:33 – Hero vs Heroine Stardom

42:28 – Schooling in Doon

45:11 – Adopting Bhatwadi Village in Uttarakhand

49:03 – Working with Shyam Benegal

52:42 – Art vs Commercial Cinema

54:51 – Dream to Work with Aamir Khan

On 10th November 2025, a terror blast near the Red Fort shook the capital. For the first time in over a decade, Delhi witnessed an attack in the heart of the city. Early investigations pointed to Pakistan-backed terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed. The attackers were doctors and engineers.

Is this the rise of white-collar terrorism in India? Was the Delhi blast a retaliation by Pakistan after India struck Jaish’s headquarters during Operation Sindoor? Was this an intelligence failure, or did Indian agencies actually manage to limit the damage?

In this edition of The ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, we are joined by Sushant Sareen, Senior Fellow at ORF, who is known for his sharp and unfiltered analysis of Pakistan and its security establishment. Ashok Chand, a former Delhi Police officer who investigated major terror cases, including the 2001 Parliament attack, the Red Fort attack in 2000 and the Jama Masjid blast.

This episode is a deep dive into India’s security challenges, Pakistan-backed terror networks and why India cannot afford complacency.

00:00 – Introduction

01:48 – Red Fort 10/11 blast

06:59 – Intelligence Networks vs Terror Modules

10:25 – Psychology of Dr. Umar Nabi

15:42 – The Red Fort 2000 Attack

22:47 – Afzal Guru’s role in Parliament attack

27:47 – The Ammonium Nitrate Case Study

31:35 – ‘White-Collar’ Terrorism in India

38:26 – Dr Shaheen’s Role as Jaish recruiter

47:51 – Delhi Car Blast: Retaliation for Op Sindoor?

57:11 – Online Radicalisation

1:01:46 – Delhi Blast: Suicide Bomber or Panic Blast?

1:08:56 – What Drives a Suicide Bomber

1:12:01 – 2010 Jama Masjid attack

1:16:51 – Crime Scene Protocols After Terror Attacks

1:20:41 – Poverty Creates Terrorists?

1:25:29 – Judicial Hurdles in Terrorism Trials

1:37:57 – Cross-Border Influence on Kashmiris

Arun Kumar is Associate Editor of the Hindustan Times, with over three and a half decades of experience covering Jharkhand and Bihar. Ravi Upadhyay is a Senior Journalist who has worked with the news agency UNI for several years in Chandigarh and Patna.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, senior journalists break down the latest opinion polls, voter trends and ground realities from across the state.

They analyse the Bihar elections to see who was ahead - Nitish Kumar, Tejashwi Yadav, or how Prashant Kishor’s strategies influenced voters.

They also talk about how women voters, youth participation, and high voter turnout shaped the Bihar elections, along with how media coverage might have influenced the results.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

00:35 – PK’s Influence in Bihar

05:10 – Nitish’s Options Post-Election

07:47 – Tejashwi vs Tej Pratap

12:25 – Will Nitish Kumar Be Bihar CM Again?

18:18 – Women Voters & High Turnout

25:23 – Rahul Gandhi's Influence on Gen Z

31:26 – ‘Jeevika’ Scheme

33:53 – Bihar’s Unique Caste Politics

38:27 – Social Media’s Role in Bihar Elections

41:38 – Role of Jeevika Didis

42:43 – Nitish Kumar's Health

46:04 – Tejashwi’s Public Image

48:57 – Muslim Voting Patterns

Chirag Paswan is the Founder and Chief of the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas). He serves as the Union Minister for Food Processing Industries in the NDA government. His party is contesting 29 seats in the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections.

In this episode of The ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Chirag speaks about his party’s prospects in the Bihar polls and shares his political ambitions. He calls Prime Minister Narendra Modi his inspiration and says PM Modi is the only reason he remains with the NDA.

Chirag also takes a dig at Rahul Gandhi’s Gen Z appeal, calls Nitish Kumar a “necessity” for the NDA, and reveals why he aims to become a Vidhayak by 2030.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

00:38 – Tense Moments During Voting

02:47 – Campaign Strategy

05:15 – Ticket Distribution in NDA

07:17 – Disappointment After the First Phase?

09:46 – Rahul’s ‘Reservation in Army’ Remark

14:09 – Why Decoding Bihar Is Difficult

17:40 – Ram Vilas Paswan’s Legacy

20:49 – How Chirag Paswan Differs from His Father

25:49 – Is Nitish Kumar a Necessity for the BJP?

31:18 – When Will Chirag Return to State Politics?

33:54 – Image of a Bihari in 2025

36:49 – Casteism in Bihar

46:39 – Challenges for the NDA

Prashant Kishor, the man who has designed winning election campaigns for leaders across party lines, is now in the political battlefield himself. After the first phase of the Bihar polls, Kishor speaks his mind like never before.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, he calls migrant workers the “real X-factor” of this election. He claims that “Nitish is going” and that the people of Bihar want change.

He takes a dig at Rahul Gandhi over his appeal to Gen-Z voters, asking, “Why would India’s youth listen to Rahul Gandhi?”

Kishor also explains why Jan Suraaj will “force another election if needed,” denies any post-poll alliance, and shares his blunt view of the Aam Aadmi Party and Arvind Kejriwal: “Their only weakness is a lack of patience and perseverance.”

An unfiltered conversation with the political strategist-turned-politician who has seen Indian politics from every side.

*Timestamps*

00:00 – Introduction

01:10 – First Phase of Voting in Bihar

02:21 – Role Of Migrant Labourers

03:49 – End of Nitish Kumar's Era?

05:53 – Female Voters In Bihar

10:07 – Muslim Yadav Equation

12:15 – What do Muslims in Bihar Want?

13:05 – Role of Gen-Z in Bihar Election

19:15 – Caste Politics in Bihar

24:57 – What if Jan Suraaj Joins a Coalition?

27:35 – Jan Suraaj Ideology

34:41 – Comparison with Kejriwal

35:46 – Reforms in Bihar

Sanjay Kumar Jha is a member of the Rajya Sabha and serves as the National Working President of Janata Dal (United). He is also the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Transport, Tourism, and Culture.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Sanjay Jha discusses the dynamics of NDA's Modi-Nitish factor, record voter turnout in the first phase of the Bihar election, and explains the Gen-Z factor in Bihar elections.

Jha also speaks about Nitish Kumar's health and whether he will be fit for the next CM. He addresses whether his son will be the political successor of Nitish Kumar.

More on Tejashwi Yadav, Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Vote Chori’ claim and the possible influence of Prashant Kishor on Bihar politics.

*Timestamps*

00:00 – Introduction

00:44 – Anti-Incumbency Factor in Bihar

03:13 – Bihar Mukhyamantri Mahila Rozgar Yojana

06:21 – Rahul Gandhi's ‘Vote Theft’ Claims

09:08 – ‘Bahubali’ Candidates in Bihar Polls

12:44 – Personality Factor in Bihar Polls

14:43 – Bihar’s Trust in Nitish Kumar

15:52 – Prashant Kishor Factor

17:25 – Tejashwi Yadav & Family Politics Trend

25:35 – ‘Gen Z’ Voter Factor in Bihar

28:14 – Job Creation in Bihar

32:20 – Future of Bihar Politics

Soha Ali Khan is an actor, author, podcaster, and one of the most articulate voices from the Pataudi family. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Soha opens up about fame, family, and finding her own identity away from the shadow of her legendary parents, Sharmila Tagore and Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi.

She talks about Rang De Basanti, why she chose to step away from films, and what shaped her journey. Soha also reflects on her brother Saif Ali Khan’s career and what it was like growing up in a household where wit, grace, and legacy coexisted.

In a candid conversation, she shares her thoughts on the fear of self-censorship in cinema and the debate around 8-hour workdays for actors. Soha also opens up about motherhood, privilege, and protecting her daughter’s privacy in a world obsessed with celebrity culture.

00:00 – Introduction

02:01 – Family Traits Soha Inherited

03:14 – Sharmila Tagore on Doing OTT Series

07:57 – Did Saif Want to Be a Cricketer?

11:44 – How Soha Got Her Role in Rang De Basanti

15:12 – Facing Backlash as Filmmakers

25:10 – Soha on Saif’s Career

30:07 – Motherhood and Work

33:48 – Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi as a Father

37:30 – Soha on Being a Podcaster

41:48 – Sharmila Tagore as a Grandmother

42:52 – How Soha Met Kunal

45:23 – The Weight of Heritage

46:29 – The Bhopal House Story

47:29 – Rabindranath Tagore Connection

50:45 – Chef Kunal or Chef Soha?

53:17 – Soha’s Workout Routine

56:05 – Privacy Concerns & Saif’s House Break-In

01:00:21 – Parenting Rules

D. Sivanandhan is one of Mumbai’s most respected former Police Commissioners, a man who saw the city’s darkest days up close, from the bloody gang wars of the 1990s to the 1993 bomb blasts that shook Mumbai. He led the fight against Dawood Ibrahim’s underworld empire and is known for cleaning up the mafia.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, D. Sivanandhan takes us back to that era, when gangsters ruled the streets, businessmen were shot in broad daylight, and the Mumbai Police decided to strike back.

He talks about how the cleanup began, the underworld’s deep links with Bollywood and real estate, and how Dawood’s network thrived with Pakistan’s ISI. D. Sivanandhan also shares what went wrong during the 26/11 terror attacks and what it truly takes to protect a city like Mumbai.

00:00 – Introduction

01:42 – The Book 'The Brahmastra Unleashed'

05:35 – 90s Mumbai Underworld

16:48 – How Powerful the Underworld Was

20:45 – Dawood & the 1993 Bomb Blasts

25:46 – Transition from Karim Lala to Dawood

31:26 – Dawood vs Chhota Rajan

43:13 – The Underworld’s Pact

46:40 – Politics & Mumbai Police

58:28 – Bollywood's Underworld Connection

01:09:13 – Reel Encounters vs Real Violence

01:12:04 – The 26/11 Attacks

01:23:21 – New-Age Threats & Security Gaps

01:32:12 – Rise of Cybercrime

Ajai Chowdhry is one of India’s leading tech visionaries and a co-founder of HCL, the company that helped build India’s computer revolution. Over the decades, he has advised governments and industry leaders on how to make India a true technology powerhouse.

He is also the chairman of the EPIC Foundation, an initiative aimed at developing electronic products of national importance and driving India toward self-reliance in technology.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Ajai Chowdhry talks about the real state of ‘Make in India’: are we truly manufacturing, or just assembling parts? He shares his insights on India’s tech product gap, China’s deep grip on the electronics supply chain, and what India must do to build world-class technology from the ground up.

He also opens up about his journey with HCL, the early days of India’s tech scene, and why the next big challenge for the country is not coding, but creating. Ajai Chowdhry also talks about how AI is reshaping the future of jobs, and why, without strong R&D, ‘Make in India’ will remain just a slogan.

Timestamps

00:00 - Coming Up

02:24 - Introduction

03:28 - Why India Has No Global Product

13:27 - Layoffs in the Tech Industry

17:40 - India Trapped in US–China Trade War?

20:25 - Why India Needs Its Own Tech IP

27:02 - The Push for Data Localisation

38:47 - The Making of HCL

45:55 - Indian Industries Ready for the AI Boom?

51:50 - Human vs Machine: Who Wins?

56:16 - Quantum Computer Ops in India

01:03:38 - The Fight Over Rare Earths

01:07:28 - Nurturing Tech Talent in India

01:12:11 - Family & Early Life

Jaiveer Shergill is a Supreme Court lawyer and national spokesperson of the BJP. He is known for his sharp arguments, nuanced views, and fearless commentary. Once among the Congress party’s national spokespersons, he made headlines when he quit the party, citing “sycophancy over merit,” before joining the BJP.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Jaiveer Shergill opens up about Punjab’s drug crisis, unemployment and migration, his take on the ‘Vote Chori’ campaign, and the state of Congress politics today.

He also speaks about how the Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab has failed to deliver on its promises in the state. Furthermore, he talks about faith, Sikh history, and the need to revive Punjab’s spiritual legacy.

00:00 – Coming Up

02:24 – Introduction

03:36 – Punjab’s Drug Crisis

11:18 – India’s Silent Security Threat

15:29 – Punjab’s Youth Migration

22:14 – BJP’s Future in Punjab

30:24 – Influence of Diaspora in Punjab

39:15 – Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Vote Chori’ Allegations

51:00 – Rahul Gandhi’s Style of Politics

01:00:14 – Diljit Dosanjh Controversy

01:08:51 – Quick Reactions on Stars, Politicians & Food

01:24:45 – Rift Between RSS and BJP?

01:29:19 – Cultural Significance of ‘Jore Sahib’