ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash

Chandan Roy was born and brought up in Bihar. He studied mass communication in Patna and Delhi before moving to Mumbai to pursue a career in acting. He rose to fame with his role as Vikas in the popular web series Panchayat.In this edition of the ANI Podcast, Chandan Roy shares what audiences can expect from Panchayat Season 4 and how it will be different from previous seasons. He also talks about his journey into acting and what inspired him to become an actor. Plus, he reveals an untold story about why he changed his name from Chandan Rai to Chandan Roy.Introduction – 00:00Panchayat Season 4 – 00:33What Makes Panchayat Special – 01:55Story Behind 'Vikas' Accent – 03:23Actors from Rural India – 05:52Creative Freedom on Set – 09:41From Bihar to Delhi to Mumbai – 11:02Inspiration Behind Name Change – 13:46Family Reaction to Panchayat – 14:42Working with Big Stars – 15:39Local Accent – 17:14Why He Left Journalism – 18:10

Khan Sir, a popular teacher from Bihar and founder of Khan GS Research Centre, dives deep into pressing issues in this candid discussion. He sheds light on terrorism, political dynamics, and India's education system, emphasizing the need for reform and transparency. Khan Sir also reflects on his personal journey, including his recent marriage, and shares perspectives on mental health and rising unemployment in Bihar. With vivid insights on leadership and social responsibility, this conversation is both enlightening and thought-provoking.

Reuven Azar, the Ambassador of Israel to India and former Foreign Policy Advisor, discusses critical global security issues. He unveils Israel's recent military actions against Iran, highlighting the threat from Iran's nuclear ambitions and military capabilities. Azar emphasizes Israel's role in defending not just itself but also world security while revealing that the U.S. was informed about their strikes. He provocatively questions India's stance on potential military action against Pakistan's nuclear sites, shedding light on intricate international alliances and tensions.

Join Anand Ranganathan, a sharp-witted author and scientist, alongside strategic thinkers Sushant Sareen, Tehseen Poonawalla, and Abhijit Iyer-Mitra for an intense discussion. They dive into Operation Sindoor and its implications on India-Pak relations. The panel tackles India’s foreign policy challenges, critiques Rahul Gandhi's remarks on PM Modi, and debates the looming influence of tech titans like Elon Musk versus political giants. The banter is rich, combining humor with deep insights into geopolitical and domestic issues.

Sonali Bendre, a renowned Bollywood actress and author, discusses her fascinating journey in the film industry and her battle with cancer. She shares heartwarming anecdotes about working with stars like Salman Khan and reflects on the support she received from family during tough times. Sonali also delves into her new book, 'A Book of Books', and her passion for promoting reading. Additionally, she addresses her viral moment with Raj Thackeray, touches on her love for animals, and hints at an exciting new podcast project centered around them.

Lt Gen PC Nair, a retired Indian Army officer with extensive experience in counter-insurgency and border security, dives into the geopolitical landscape of Myanmar and Bangladesh. He discusses the controversial Rakhine Corridor and its implications for regional tensions, especially with China's growing influence. Nair also examines the internal political struggles in Bangladesh, particularly Muhammad Yunus's challenges with military leadership and looming elections, while analyzing how these dynamics affect India's security interests.

Rajpal Yadav began his acting journey with television before making a mark in films like Shool (1999) and Jungle (2000).Rajpal has delivered iconic performances in films such as Hungama, Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, Chup Chup Ke and Bhool Bhulaiyaa series, among others, where he impressed audiences with his blend of humor and comic timing.In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Rajpal Yadav opens up about his iconic comic roles and his views on nepotism in Bollywood. He highlights how actors from non-film backgrounds carve their path in the industry.He also discusses his time at the National School of Drama (NSD), and the lifelong friendships he formed with fellow actors who went on to achieve success in Bollywood.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction00:45 – Love for Theatre02:42 – Typecast in Comic Roles06:05 – Boundaries of an Artist08:53 – Playing Multiple Characters16:08 – Insecurity Among Actors23:11 – Turning Point of Career31:50 – Bollywood and its Audience36:54 – PR Companies in Bollywood42:07 – Family Background44:14 – Nepotism Debate47:39 – Iconic Comic Roles52:00 – Roles in Sequel Movies54:23 – Rapport with Actors57:04 – Bonding with Directors1:01:40 – Life After NSD Days1:05:26 – Upcoming Projects1:06:55 – Quitting Politics1:13:07 – Directorial Venture

Shashi Shekhar, founder of AI for India and former CEO of Prasar Bharati, dives deep into the narrative wars surrounding Operation Sindoor. He discusses the amplification of false narratives against India in the West, fueled by misinformation. Shashi emphasizes the crucial role of artificial intelligence in battling these narratives and urges the Indian diaspora, including celebrities and sports figures, to take a moral stand. He further examines how social media shapes public perception and the responsibilities of influential voices in countering terrorism narratives.

In this engaging conversation, Narendra Nath Dhar Dubey, a brave former DG of the BSF and Kirti Chakra awardee, shares gripping details of his mission to capture terrorist Ghazi Baba in 2003. He and Sanjiv Krishan Sood, a veteran BSF leader with 38 years of service, delve into the complexities of border security, discussing the escalating drone threats and challenges in counter-terrorism efforts. They also reflect on the emotional toll of military operations and the mental resilience required to protect India's borders.

In this engaging discussion, guests Shekhar Iyer, a senior journalist known for his political analysis, Gautam Lahiri, President of the Press Club of India and a veteran commentator, and Pallavi Ghosh, a Senior Editor at CNN-News18, share their insights on the recently announced caste census. They explore its implications for social justice and upcoming elections in Bihar, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal. The conversation also digs into political dynamics, leadership roles, and caste politics that are increasingly shaping the electoral landscape in India.