From politics to dating, cricket to OTT shows, the ANI Podcast Team wraps up 2024 with a year-end special that's both entertaining and insightful. Every topic is seasoned with a pinch of wit and a dash of intrigue, making it a must-listen! In this special edition, hosted by Smita Prakash, the guests bring their unique perspectives to the table: Shehzad Poonawalla, National Spokesperson of the BJP, shares his take on the political highlights of the year. Kushal Mehra, an author and podcaster, weighs in on cultural shifts, Foreign Policy, and more. Vinamre Kasanaa, popularly known as Dostcast, dives into the world of content creation, podcasting in India, and dating culture. Together, they unpack a wide range of topics, offering sharp insights and plenty of laughs along the way. Whether you're a news junkie or just here for the banter, this episode has something for everyone! 00:00 - Introduction 03:13 - How Content Creation Has Evolved 08:15 - Podcasting in India 17:09 - When Views Drop on Podcasts 22:17 - Modi: The Best PM India Has Ever Had? 25:40 - Should India Legalize Same-Sex Marriage? 28:21 - Has India's Foreign Policy Improved Under the BJP? 32:23 - Is Free Speech Under Threat in India? 40:57 - Has India's Social Fabric Been Ruined in the Last 10 Years? 48:07 - Hindu Rashtra 51:03 - Caste-Based Reservation 55:58 - Best Daily Soap Serial and Why 57:36 - Marriage and Opposing Political Views 59:08 - Will You Stay Friends with Your Ex? 01:00:13 - Most Overrated Sports 01:01:21 - How Much Do You Spend on a First Date? 01:05:23 - What Makes You Proud to Be an Indian? 01:05:49 - Year 2024 in One Word 01:06:54 - Disrespecting Culture 01:10:28 - Does Religion Matter Before Entering a Relationship? 01:16:10 - Overrated Celebrity 01:17:32 - Picking India's Best Cricket Player 01:20:03 - Is It Okay to Cheat on Your Barber? 01:23:13 - Indian of the Year? 01:27:43 - Overrated Film 01:29:48 - The Kapoors Meeting PM Modi 01:37:44 - Online Trolling 01:39:21 - Favourite Podcaster 01:43:59 - Fame and Criticism 01:50:12 - Politicians and Their Attire 01:57:35 - Power Dynamics During Interviews 02:00:45 - Shehzad's 2025 Resolutions 02:02:53 - Kushal's 2025 Resolutions 02:04:08 - Vinamre's 2025 Resolutions 02:06:47 - Smita's 2025 Resolutions

The suicide of Bengaluru techie Atul Subhash has brought the spotlight onto gender-biased laws in India. Why did suicide become the only option for Atul Subhash? Who is responsible for his death— the system, the judiciary, or the police? His tragic death has sparked a demand for gender-neutral laws in India. In an episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Priya Jain, a lawyer and co-founder of Finology Legal, discusses the legal challenges and how some sections of the law are not gender-neutral. Anil Murty, co-founder of the Save Indian Family Foundation, points out that Atul Subhash is not an isolated case. There are many others who face similar outcomes, highlighting a larger problem in India. Abhijit Iyer Mitra, senior fellow at the Institute of Peace & Conflict Studies, shares his perspective on how these laws are shaping India’s story. 00:00 - Introduction 02:01 - The Atul Subhash Case 08:52 - Men's Rights and Media Trials 16:31 - What Led Atul to Die by Suicide? 24:46 - Who Is Responsible for Atul's Death? 27:02 - Section 498A and Its Misuse 31:59 - The Indian Judiciary and Judges 34:51 - Marriage as an Institution 39:32 - Prenuptial Agreements Before Marriage 41:57 - Forced Marriages in Bihar 44:50 - UP Officer Booked for Exploiting IIT Kanpur Student 46:16 - The Police's Role in Forced Marriages 50:21 - The Role of Marriage Mediators in Settling Divorce Disputes 54:27 - The Need for Gender-Neutral Laws 58:43 - Kids' Role in Divorce Settlements 01:01:26 - Understanding Perjury in Divorce Cases 01:06:37 - Karnataka's Progressive Judgments 01:08:41 - Legal Pros and Cons of Marriage 01:13:32 - Gay Relationships 01:16:34 - The Role of Save Indian Family Foundation 01:22:46 - Arnesh Kumar v. State of Bihar 01:24:37 - Prenuptial Agreements

There seems to be no end to the Temple-Mosque disputes in India. After Ayodhya, claims have emerged regarding a mosque allegedly being built after the demolition of a temple in U.P.'s Sambhal. What does the Places of Worship Act, 1991, say about such disputes? Did the Ayodhya judgment set a legal precedent? And what about maintaining communal harmony? In the latest episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, J. Sai Deepak, a Senior Advocate at the Supreme Court of India and the Delhi High Court, delves into several pressing issues. He shares his insights on Tamil Nadu's political landscape, the broader dynamics of Indian politics, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's advocacy for the 'Secular Civil Code'. Additionally, he sheds light on the challenges faced by the Hindu community in Bangladesh and discusses the implications of these issues on India's socio-political fabric. 00:00 - Introduction 01:56 - Sambhal Mosque Row 06:58 - Conversion of Worship Sites 15:58 - Pending Cases in Mosque-Temple Disputes 19:32 - The Places of Worship Act, 1991 22:37 - Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb 26:11 - Historians and Temple-Mosque Disputes 30:49 - Justice R.F. Nariman on Ayodhya Verdict 33:48 - How Many Temples Were Destroyed 36:51 - Attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh 47:06 - Snap Reaction on Asaduddin Owaisi 49:31 - Snap Reaction on D.Y. Chandrachud 52:26 - Snap Reaction on K. Annamalai 56:43 - Snap Reaction on PM Narendra Modi 01:03:07 - Snap Reaction on Omar Abdullah 01:05:30 - Snap Reaction on Rahul Gandhi 01:10:11 - Snap Reaction on Udayanidhi Stalin 01:11:11 - Thalapathy Vijay in Tamil Nadu's Politics 01:15:21 - Social Media Fan Following 01:16:40 - J. Sai Deepak's 3rd Book 01:18:26 - Senior Advocates and Junior Advocates in Court 01:21:22 - Nepotism in the Judiciary 01:25:06 - PM's Push for 'Secular Civil Code'

Why are mental health disorder cases rising in India? Why are so many young people struggling with depression and anxiety? What are the real causes of ADHD, and how can we break common myths about mental health? To answer these questions, we are joined by Dr. Achal Bhagat, one of New Delhi’s leading psychiatrists. He is a Senior Consultant Psychiatrist and leads a team of psychologists, social workers, and therapists. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Dr Bhagat talks about India’s mental health crisis, including stress at work, relationship struggles, and rising divorce rates. He also explains why children and teenagers are more affected by depression and how society often misunderstands mental health. Don’t miss this episode to learn how to manage stress, anxiety, and depression, and how to seek help from professionals. Audio Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:48 - Psychiatrist vs. Psychologist vs. Therapist 09:07 - Violence Against Women 12:15 - Depression Among Women 14:05 - Mental Health Stigma 17:21 - Mental Health Myths 22:38 - Time to Discuss Mental Health 23:12 - Suicide Cases in Kota 27:00 - Parental and School Pressure 28:44 - How Psychiatrists Handle Suicidal Thoughts 33:42 - Loneliness Among the Ageing Population 40:22 - Social Media Addiction 43:10 - Work-Life Pressure 50:22 - Managing Relationship Pressures 54:12 - Increasing Divorce Rates in India 58:00 - Alcohol and Smoking 01:00:09 - Pollution and Mental Health 01:02:38 - Depression and Anxiety 01:04:15 - Mental Illness: Diagnosis and Treatment 01:08:21 - Genetics and Mental Health Disorders 01:11:22 - Helping Someone in Mental Distress 01:30:10 - Mental Health Terms to Avoid 01:34:00 - Parenting for Boys and Girls 01:37:28 - Relationship Between Patients and Psychiatrists

What does it take to become a supermodel? How difficult is it to reach the top of the modelling industry? What role do diet and body image play in modelling? Why is there a rise in cosmetic surgeries among models and actors? What goes on behind the scenes during a fashion show? To answer these questions, we're joined by Alicia Kaur, a Mumbai-based model originally from Australia, who has made a name for herself in the fashion industry. In this ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Alicia talks about the challenges she faced in the modelling world and why discipline is key to success. She also shares her struggles while working in China and discusses the roles of designers, choreographers, and models in fashion events. Alicia opens up about a viral skit she did with actor Sidharth Malhotra, which led to a lot of criticism. She also speaks about her decision to undergo breast surgery and why some models feel the need to enhance their facial features. Plus, she shares her experience of working with Shah Rukh Khan on an ad campaign. Don't miss this episode to learn what it takes to be a supermodel. 00:00 - Introduction 00:38 - Modeling: A Childhood Dream 08:08 - Work Experience in China 15:08 - Struggling Due to Passport Theft in Hong Kong 17:52 - Journey to Becoming a Supermodel & Touring India 21:08 - Sidharth Malhotra & Alicia's Viral Video 23:58 - Role of Designers, Choreographers, and Models in Fashion Events 25:55 - What Happens Backstage During Fashion Shows 28:35 - Choosing Veganism 35:01 - Cosmetic Surgery Among Models 39:16 - The Reason for Undergoing Breast Surgery 42:06 - Celebrities Trolled for Botox 45:23 - Facing Acceptance Issues 48:16 - Favorite Designers 50:18 - Drug Issues in the Modeling Industry 51:38 - Is Modeling a Gateway to Bollywood? 52:41 - Working Experience with Shah Rukh Khan 55:53 - First Ad Shoot in India 57:36 - Addressing Skin Color Diversity in Modeling 01:02:58 - Advice for Aspiring Models 01:07:53 - Favorite Indian Food

Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore from 1782 to 1799, is often celebrated in history books as a freedom fighter and the "Tiger of Mysore." He was the son of Hyder Ali, a Muslim military officer who became the king of Mysore after overthrowing the Hindu Wadiyar dynasty. But was Tipu Sultan truly a freedom fighter, or was he an Islamist ruler known for his tyranny? In his latest book, 'Tipu Sultan: The Saga of Mysore's Interregnum (1760–1799)', historian and author Dr. Vikram Sampath challenges the popular narratives about Tipu Sultan. Drawing on detailed research, Dr. Sampath explains Tipu’s actions against Hindus and Christians, including the destruction of temples, forced conversion to Islam, and what he describes as "religious genocide." Dr Sampath, known for his two-volume biography of V.D. Savarkar and other notable works, discusses these controversial aspects of Tipu Sultan’s rule in this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash. He also criticizes political parties for celebrating Tipu Jayanti, arguing that Tipu’s legacy includes the torture and slaughter of thousands of Hindus and Christians and that he should be remembered for these actions, not glorified. Tune in to this episode to uncover the true history of Tipu Sultan and understand why he remains a figure of admiration in Pakistan and among its politicians. 00:00 - Introduction 02:10 - Why write a book on Tipu Sultan? 06:55 - Fire at the 'Sword of Tipu Sultan' set, 1989 09:50 - How did Vikram Learn Kannada 17:40 - Article on Mysore Dewans 22:21 - How long did the book research take? 29:45 - On Tipu Sultan's father, Hyder Ali 37:55 - How Hyder Ali overthrew the Wadiyars 48:05 - Tipu Sultan’s mother 56:35 - Naraka Chaturdashi Story 01:09:10 - Hyder Ali, a 'womanizer' 01:19:20 - Mass circumcision of 85,000 Kodavas (Coorgis) 01:25:30 - Was Tipu Sultan a freedom fighter? 01:34:10 - The first decade of Tipu's rule 01:45:40 - Shankaracharya's trick to save the Math 01:54:50 - The surrender of Tipu Sultan’s two sons 02:03:28 - The cannons of Tipu Sultan 02:08:20 - The reason behind writing the 984-page book 02:11:30 - Black magic

In this engaging conversation, Sunil Chhetri, one of India's greatest football players and former captain of the national team, reflects on his inspiring journey from childhood in Delhi to becoming an iconic athlete. He discusses his fitness regimen, the vital role of nutrition, and how his family shaped his career. Chhetri shares candid thoughts on handling social media criticism, his friendship with Virat Kohli, and unpacks his future plans post-retirement, including potential political ambitions—revealing a personal side of the football legend.

BK Shivani, a renowned Rajyoga Meditation teacher and TV personality, dives into the evolution of Brahma Kumaris, a spiritual movement focused on inner peace. She discusses the significance of celibacy and the roles of women in leadership within the organization. Shivani explores topics like Ram Rajya, the idea of a spiritual India, and the importance of compassion in healing societal violence. She reflects on love versus attachment and shares insights on parenting, forgiveness, and the transformative power of meditation.

Sushant Sareen, a senior fellow at ORF specializing in Pakistani affairs, and Tilak Devasher, an author and National Security Advisory Board member, delve into the alarming rise in attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh, questioning the notion of 'religious cleansing.' They explore the potential for Bangladesh to destabilize further and the implications for India as migrant numbers rise. The discussion also tackles the ongoing political chaos in Pakistan, focusing on Imran Khan's plight and the role of military influence in shaping governance and unrest.

Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud served as the 50th Chief Justice of India from November 9, 2022, to November 10, 2024. During his tenure, he was a part of several landmark judgments, including the Ayodhya verdict, the decriminalization of Section 377, entry of women into the Sabarimala temple, the fundamental right to privacy, and the constitutionality of the Electoral Bonds Scheme, among others. He is widely respected for making the judiciary more tech-savvy and accessible. Under his leadership, the court embraced technological advancements such as live broadcasting of hearings, digitalization of Supreme Court and High Court records, and AI for transcribing judicial proceedings. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, the former Chief Justice shares his views on several key issues. He discusses the collegium system, the Ayodhya Ram Temple verdict, and the impact of online trolling on judges' mental well-being. He highlights the heavy scrutiny judges face in the age of social media, where every word and decision is closely examined. Justice Chandrachud also addresses the opposition's claim that the judiciary is under pressure. He emphasizes that one does not need to be an atheist to deliver unbiased and fair judgments and speaks about practising faith while upholding the law. The conversation also touches on his retirement, his choice to follow a vegan lifestyle, his family, and his thoughts on whether he might enter politics in the future. 00:00 - Coming Up 00:00 - Introduction 01:38 - Retirement Plans 04:16 - On Teaching Law 06:24 - Delhi Air Pollution 12:20 - Delhi Govt vs L-G Tussle 16:42 - On his legacy 18:35 - Why He Chose to Become a Judge 23:04 - Trolling of Judges 25:54 - SC Handbook on Gender Stereotypes 29:21 - Media Scrutiny 31:54 - Who Authored the Ayodhya Verdict 36:33 - Liberal vs Conservative Judge Labels 38:17 - When the Ex-CJI Prayed for a Solution 44:17 - Sambhal Mosque Row 45:51 - Ganpati Puja with PM Modi 48:37 - Is the Indian Judiciary Under Pressure? 56:20 - Article 370 Judgment 57:24 - Overturning His Father’s Judgment 58:37 - Why He Got into the Legal Profession 01:02:24 - Nepotism in the Indian Judicial System 01:06:04 - The Collegium System 01:09:21 - Pendency of Court Cases in India 01:18:10 - Advocates’ Affordability 01:27:24 - Decriminalization of Homosexuality 01:32:24 - Roe v. Wade Judgment 01:34:16 - Disability-Friendly Courts 01:39:00 - Choosing a Vegan Lifestyle 01:44:40 - Judges Entering Politics 01:49:58 - Supreme Court Prison Report 01:53:34 - Privacy Issues for Judges in the Digital Era 01:56:13 - Live Telecast of Hearings 02:04:30 - Caste Element in Judgments 02:08:04 - International Disputes 02:12:19 - How DY Chandrachud Relaxes 02:17:57 - Hindi vs English- language used in courts 02:23:09 - Interaction with PM, CM, and President