ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash

Rahul Bose is an actor, director, and writer who has worked in more than 55 films in different languages. He is famous for picking meaningful roles. Movies like Mr. and Mrs. Iyer, The Japanese Wife, and Chameli show how he prefers strong and thoughtful characters.Rahul is more than just a film personality. He was also a national-level rugby player and is currently the President of Rugby India. He is working hard to grow the sport. For him, rugby is not just a game; it’s a way to teach kids teamwork, discipline, and confidence.In this episode of The ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Rahul talks about his 32 years in the film industry. He clears up some common myths, like the idea that Bollywood is only about glamour and big money.More about the process behind choosing a film, the debate between theatres and OTT platforms, and whether Bollywood is lacking in content.Timestamps00:00 – Coming Up01:53 – Introduction03:10 – Story Behind Carrying His Own Chair on Sets10:45 – Left's Influence in Bollywood12:21 – Working with Female Directors16:35 – Experience in South Indian Film Industry22:35 – Process Behind Choosing a Film26:45 – Script Improvisation28:45 – Journey into Rugby36:50 – Advice on Overcoming Fear40:50 – Role of Discipline in Sports43:43 – Rugby: A Costly Sport?50:10 – Benefits of Playing Rugby54:30 – Nutrition for Rugby Players01:02:35 – Rugby vs. Films01:04:30 – Theatres vs. Films vs. OTT01:07:58 – Impact of OTT on Storytelling01:13:32 – Lack of Quality in Bollywood Content?01:17:30 – Lessons from His Parents01:25:25 – Rahul Ever Regretted Doing a Film?01:30:12 – Laapataa Ladies & Thappad01:39:24 – Upcoming Projects

Tejashwi Yadav, the former Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar and the current Leader of the Opposition, dives into the political chaos of Bihar. He critiques PM Modi and CM Nitish Kumar, claiming their leadership has led to stagnation and corruption. Tejashwi tackles the contentious 'Jungle Raj' label and discusses his party's strategies for upcoming polls. With humor, he also addresses personal topics, like the controversy surrounding his son's name, and emphasizes the need for a caste census to address social inequalities in Bihar.

Rajesh Kumar Singh, the Defence Secretary of India and a seasoned IAS officer, discusses the significant impacts of Operation Sindoor and how Pakistan was the one pleading for a ceasefire. He reveals insights on India's drone strategy, highlighting the need for advancements in domestic capabilities. Singh also touches upon the game-changing role of Made-in-India weapons and the urgency to reduce defense procurement timelines. Notably, he provides updates on India's fifth-generation stealth fighter, emphasizing the strategic contexts involving China and Pakistan.

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