What's your ism?

In this episode of What’s Your Ism?, Sudipto Mondal hosts Anand Neelakantan, bestselling author of Asura and Ajaya, to discuss how mythology is shaped by caste, politics, and power. Neelakantan dissects dominant narratives in the Ramayana and Mahabharata, questioning why some figures are remembered as heroes while others are cast as villains. From caste-coded storytelling to Hindutva’s mythmaking, he explores the ways in which history is rewritten to serve contemporary ideologies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the first edition of What’s Your Ism? Reflections. Sudipto Mondal looks back at his conversation with János Orsós, founder of a Roma school in Hungary inspired by Ambedkar, and reflects on what was left unsaid—from statelessness to social segregation across continents. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

János Orsós, founder of the Dr. Ámbédkar School in Hungary and a passionate Roma activist, shares his insights on combating racial segregation and promoting education. He discusses the alarming educational disparities faced by the Roma community and the haunting echoes of discrimination in Hungary. Drawing inspiration from Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy, János highlights ongoing legal battles against educational segregation and the systemic challenges within a politically oppressive environment. His work shines a light on the fight for justice and equality.

Discover the challenges and triumphs of running an independent newsroom for over a decade. The founders share insights on navigating personal and professional lives while maintaining journalistic integrity. Gain perspective on the hurdles of website traffic management and the necessity of quick verification in fast-paced news cycles. Explore the evolution of journalism in Tamil Nadu, emphasizing community support and diversity in media. Learn why independent journalism is crucial for societal progress and how it fosters ethical storytelling.

Ammu Joseph, a pioneering feminist journalist and founding member of the Network of Women in Media, India (NWMI), shares her inspiring journey on What's Your Ism? with Sudipto Mondal.The conversation explores her groundbreaking works in Indian journalism, early works in Eve’s Weekly magazine & the process that led to the formation of NWMI. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sudipto Mondal features Gauley Bhai in this What's Your Ism? special. Their journey from Kalimpong to Bengaluru isn’t just about music—it’s about survival, resistance, and reclaiming identity. Their sound is a weapon, their songs a protest, and their stage a place of hope. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this What’s Your Ism? holiday special, Sudipto Mondal sits down with Manjeet Sarkar—a comedian and filmmaker using humour to break barriers. The conversation explores his experiences as a Dalit performer, his reflections on identity, and the role of comedy in addressing social justice. P.S. They also share a personal discussion on food and its cultural roots. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Parvaaz isn’t just a band—it’s a cultural movement. In the first of What’s Your Ism?’s holiday specials, Sudipto Mondal and Gokul Chakravarthy delve into how Bengaluru nurtures collaboration and diversity. Parvaaz’s journey from college jam sessions to progressive rock pioneers reveals the heart of Bengaluru’s cultural vibrancy. Watch as they discuss music, identity, and why Bengaluru remains the city of rock. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 30 of What’s Your Ism? takes a personal turn as Dhanya Rajendran interviews Sudipto Mondal, the voice behind the show. Sudipto revisits his early struggles in journalism, the societal realities he confronted, and how these experiences shaped his purpose and perspective. This is the story of a Dalit journalist who has been telling others’ stories—now telling his own. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of What's Your Ism?, Sudipto Mondal and Dhanya Rajendran host M.G. Devasahayam, a former IAS officer and army veteran, to discuss critical issues facing India today and compare it to the emergency era. From the flaws in EVM-VVPAT systems to the systemic destruction of democratic institutions, Devasahayam provides a hard-hitting analysis of India’s electoral process and governance. Drawing on his firsthand experiences during the Emergency and his extensive career, he explores how Hindutva politics and institutional decay are threatening democracy.Watch the full episode on our YouTube channel or listen to this podcast, available on all streaming platforms. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.