Rasheed Kidwai is a senior journalist, political analyst, and author known for his insights into Indian politics and the Congress party. He has written extensively about the Indian political system and is the author of notable books like 24 Akbar Road. Kidwai regularly contributes to national media outlets and appears on prime-time debates for various news channels.
Yana Mir is a journalist and political commentator from Jammu and Kashmir, known for her bold views on the abrogation of Article 370 and how it has changed the valley.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, journalists Rasheed Kidwai and Yana Mir discuss the assembly elections in Haryana and Jammu & Kashmir. Kidwai highlights the anti-incumbency and local dissatisfaction with BJP leaders in Haryana. He also discusses the rift between Hooda and Selja and whether it could be a spoiler for the Congress party in the Haryana polls.
Yana Mir talks about the political scene in Kashmir, noting how locals are growing disillusioned with the Abdullah and Mufti dynasties. She discusses the rise of independent candidates in the valley and how Engineer Rashid is attracting voters’ attention.
They also highlight the media's influence in shaping narratives and the importance of these elections for the BJP and its allies in NDA 3.0.
00:00 – Introduction
01:53 – Haryana & J-K Polls
08:57 – Independent Candidates in J&K Polls
12:10 – Crowded J&K Poll Fray
16:53 – NC vs PDP Battle
20:30 – Corruption Issue in Polls
23:22 – The Modi Factor in J&K Polls
29:52 – Will BJP Sweep Jammu?
32:12 – Yana's Tweets Controversy
38:50 – Role of Media in Elections
47:38 – Foreign Diplomats' Visit to J&K
52:00 – People Upset with BJP in J&K?
53:32 – Congress' Prospects in J&K
58:07 – Rahul vs. Modi in Popularity
1:04:58 – Separatists in J&K Polls
1:09:17 – Labeling Media as the Villain
1:12:22 – Hindu-Muslim Issues in Polls
1:14:42 – 'Samvidhan Badal Denge' Row
1:22:52 – Is Media Still Powerful in India?
1:25:52 – Can AAP Spring a Surprise in Haryana?
1:27:52 – The Next CM of Jammu & Kashmir
1:31:43 – Impact of Election Results on NDA 3.0
Ajay Chrungoo is a prominent Kashmiri Pandit and the Chairman of Panun Kashmir, an organization advocating for the rights and rehabilitation of displaced Kashmiri Pandits. He is known for speaking about the challenges faced by the Pandit community in the 1990s due to the insurgency in the Valley.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Ajay Chrungoo discusses the demand for a separate homeland, 'Panun Kashmir,' for Kashmiri Pandits in Jammu & Kashmir. He asserts that what happened in 1989-90 was a genocide against Kashmiri Pandits, not just a wave of migration.
He shares his personal story of being attacked by terrorists and fleeing the valley, leaving everything behind. Chrungoo also explains why many Pandits are calling for a boycott of the 2024 J&K Assembly Polls. He holds the BJP, Congress, and National Conference responsible for the attacks against Pandits, accusing them of playing a key role during that time.
(Thumbnail Picture Courtesy: Reuters)
00:00 - Introduction
00:57 - Kashmir: Then vs. Now
03:42 - What is Panun Kashmir
10:54 - Separate Territory for Pandits Demand
12:42 - What Kashmiri Pandits Want
15:25 - Politics Over Pandits
19:29 - Election 'Boycott' Call
26:00 - Pandits and Political Party
29:51 - Exodus Horror of 1989-1990
35:06 - Pandits Returning After Article 370
37:38 - Land for Panun Kashmir
39:05 - Who Can Help Kashmiri Pandits
43:12 - NC's Role in Pandits' Exodus
49:44 - How Many Pandits Were Killed in 90s
54:54 - Why Pandits Choose NOTA in Voting
Tarun Chugh is a senior BJP leader, currently serving as the party's National General Secretary and in charge of Jammu & Kashmir. He has been strengthening the party's presence in Jammu and Kashmir for the past 30 years. His role in overseeing the BJP's activities in the region has made him an important figure in J&K's political landscape.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Tarun Chugh expresses confidence that the BJP will form the government in Jammu & Kashmir without any support from regional parties like the NC or PDP. He sees the rise of independent candidates as a sign of changing times in the region and suggests that the end of militancy has been a turning point in the valley’s journey towards stability and growth.
Chugh also highlights how Prime Minister Modi’s development agenda has reshaped J&K after the abrogation of Article 370. He also talks about the party's commitment to Agniveers and assures that statehood will be restored, as promised by both PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.
The discussion also covers the challenges faced by Kashmiri Pandits, the return of peace and democracy to the region, and the BJP’s position on important issues like the Darbar Move and the controversial 1987 election rigging.
Mir Junaid is a Kashmiri politician and social activist widely recognized for his strong support of the abrogation of Article 370 and his advocacy for peace and development in Jammu and Kashmir. As the president of the Jammu and Kashmir Workers Party, Mir Junaid has actively engaged in grassroots politics, with a focus on enhancing stability and fostering economic growth in the region. He is often seen as a strong supporter of India's sovereignty and integration of Jammu and Kashmir, and he has been instrumental in raising awareness about the challenges faced by the people in the valley. He is set to contest the upcoming J&K Assembly elections from the Langate constituency in Kupwara district.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Mir Junaid opens up about his decision to support the abrogation of Article 370 and aims the National Conference and People's Democratic Party, the two dominant political forces in Jammu and Kashmir. He accuses them of fueling violence in the region, claiming they exploited the emotions of the Kashmiri people for political gains. He also charges them with colluding with militants, often calling off military operations to protect insurgents, and blames them for the mass exodus of Kashmiri Pandits during the 1990s. Junaid emphasizes that his party, the Jammu and Kashmir Workers Party, is committed to fighting for the restoration of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir.
Junaid also highlights the BJP's recent move to grant reservations to the region's ethnic minorities, fulfilling a longstanding demand. He also adds that this decision prompted his wife, Dr. Shehnaz Ganai's decision to join the BJP. He also recalls the incident when he was attacked by Pakistani nationals at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. Firmly opposed to any dialogue with Pakistan on the Kashmir issue, Junaid argues that a country responsible for decades of bloodshed in the valley should not be welcomed to the negotiating table.
00:00 - Introduction
01:02 - Supporting Abrogation of Article 370
05:25 - Exposing PDP & NC
09:44 - Rahul Gandhi's J&K Campaign
11:36 - NC-PDP Supported Militants?
13:30 - Kashmiri Pandits' Exodus
16:40 - Promise of 'Naya' Kashmir
17:59 - Politics of the Abdullahs
20:23 - BJP's Entry in J&K
22:47 - Fight for Statehood
24:23 - Who Will Form Govt. in J&K?
32:31 - Rise of Engineer Rashid
34:58 - ISI's Attack on Mir Junaid in USA
36:23 - Kashmir's Youth Voters
39:12 - Ethnic Minorities in J&K
43:32 - BJP Supporting Independent Candidates?
45:47 - Mir Junaid's Vision for Kashmir
48:12 - Election Promises
55:19 - Dr. Shehnaz Ganai's Move to Join BJP
57:27 - Should India Hold Dialogue with Pakistan?
59:07 - Security Situation in J&K
Raman Bhalla is currently serving as the working president of the Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee. A senior leader in the Jammu region, Raman Bhalla has been elected twice to the J&K Legislative Assembly from the Gandhinagar constituency and has also served as the revenue minister in the J&K government.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Raman Bhalla talks about who has the upper hand in the Jammu region and what has changed since the abrogation of Article 370. He also highlights key differences between the Congress and NC manifestos, NC's stance on Article 370, and the role of the PDP in the INDIA Bloc.
Bhalla alleges that the BJP is backing independent candidates in the Jammu and Kashmir elections. He also discusses the halting of the Darbar Move, a practice of shifting government offices between Jammu and Srinagar, and the impact this decision has had on the region. The conversation also covers security concerns, including the rise of terror attacks in Jammu and the rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits.
00:00 - Introduction
00:39 - Political Situation in Jammu South
04:47 - Congress Manifesto Delayed
09:38 - Delimitation
13:34 - Congress vs NC Manifestos
16:35 - Normalcy Post Article 370
17:29 - 'Parivarvaad' in J&K Politics
21:22 - PDP's Role in the INDIA Bloc
23:55 - Independents in J&K Polls
25:47 - Halting of the Darbar Move
28:36 - Pak Interference in J&K
29:41 - Terror Attacks in Jammu Division
30:26 - Kashmiri Pandit Rehabilitation
38:20 - Who Will Win the J&K Polls?
Devender Singh Rana is a prominent BJP leader from Jammu and Kashmir, and the BJP candidate from the Nagrota constituency in the upcoming J&K elections. Formerly a close aide of Omar Abdullah, Rana also served as the Provincial President of the Jammu wing of the National Conference and held several influential roles in public service. But in 2021, he made a strategic shift to the BJP. Since then, he has been instrumental in expanding the BJP's influence in Jammu, especially by addressing long-standing regional disparities. He is an outspoken advocate for Jammu’s political, economic, and cultural aspirations, continuously working to bridge the region’s development gap.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Devender Singh Rana explains his decision to leave the National Conference and join the BJP. He sheds light on Jammu & Kashmir's evolving political landscape and highlights the growing popularity of PM Modi, particularly in Jammu. Rana also talks about the restoration of peace in the region under PM Modi’s leadership. He also refutes NC’s claims that the BJP is backing 'independent' proxies from the Kashmir valley. Additionally, he accuses the NC-Congress alliance of seeking to abolish reservations in Jammu & Kashmir.
In this candid interview, Rana also addresses key issues in J&K, such as the effects of the Governor’s Rule, the rise in terror attacks in the Jammu region, the halt of the winter 'Darbar Move' from Srinagar to Jammu, and efforts to rehabilitate the Kashmiri Pandit community.
0:00 - Introduction
0:49 - Devender Rana Remembers Smita Prakash's Father
3:36 - NC Offered Support To BJP in 2014?
11:41 - Kashmir's Changing Political Landscape
17:11 - BJPs Alleged B-Teams in Kashmir
18:11 - Peace Restored in Kashmir Under PM Modi?
21:09 - Soft-Separatism in 'Naya Kashmir'
22:58 - Internal Dissatisfaction in Jammu BJP
26:21 - Modi Effect in Jammu
29:21 - Ram Madhav's Re-entry in J&K Politics
34:55 - Darbar Move
37:48 - Narrative Shift with Abrogation of Article 370
42:26 - Terror Attacks in Jammu Division
48:07 - Should India Open Talks with Pakistan?
49:31 - Jammu's Marginalization within J&K
55:01 - NC-Congress to Scrap Reservation in J&K?
57:13 - Problems with Governor's Rule
1:01:58 - Outsiders Getting Contracts in J&K?
1:08:34 - Kashmiri Pandits' Rehabilitation
1:11:41 - BJP Fielding Proxies in Kashmir?
1:14:15 - Dynamics in Political Families
1:17:01 - 'Real' Reason Behind Quitting NC
This is a historic election in Jammu and Kashmir, the first assembly polls since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. With more than 40% of the candidates running as independents, could they play the role of spoiler? Will any party secure a full majority? Who holds the real power in Kashmir? What are the prospects for the PDP and NC? And how has the abrogation of Article 370 changed the valley? Most importantly, what do the people of Kashmir want?
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, we are joined by two seasoned journalists from Kashmir who have covered the valley extensively for decades. Ahmed Ali Fayyaz, a senior journalist, and Rashid Rahil, Editor-in-Chief of Asian Mail.
Ahmed Ali Fayyaz sees an edge for the NC, predicting a hung assembly, and believes government formation is unlikely without Congress or NC's help. Rashid Rahil believes the PDP is gearing up and could perform well. Both journalists also discuss how elections in Kashmir have evolved and how people vote.
They dive into the rigging of the 1987 elections and how it changed the valley forever. The conversation also touches on former Jamaat leaders contesting in these elections and what Engineer Rashid's party might achieve in the polls.
00:00 - Introduction
01:07 - Kashmir’s Political Dynamics
06:45 - NC’s Advantage in J&K Polls?
08:57 - NC-Congress Alliance
14:47 - Gupkar Alliance Collapse
20:52 - Kashmir’s Complex Alliances
26:18 - J&K Past Elections Rewind
37:10 - Farooq's Entry into J&K Politics
41:30 - Ex-Militants in Electoral Process
45:05 - Politics of Power
48:06 - Why is Omar Contesting from 2 Seats?
53:45 - Why is Mehbooba Mufti Not Contesting?
56:42 - From ‘Azadi’ to Democracy
01:04:14 - Pakistan’s Interference in J&K Polls
01:07:06 - Farooq Abdullah’s Legacy
01:08:30 - Why Omar Removed His Skull Cap
01:12:03 - Role of the LG in J&K
01:14:14 - Ram Madhav’s Gameplan
01:16:30 - Impact of Jammu Terror Attacks
01:19:30 - Anti-Modi Sentiment in J&K?
01:24:03 - Will Pandits Return to the Valley
Talat Majid, an independent candidate from Pulwama backed by Jamaat-e-Islami, is emerging as a significant political figure in Jammu and Kashmir. With deep connections to the local community, Majid has been advocating for the people of Pulwama, pushing for solutions to key issues like unemployment, education, and the disenfranchisement of Kashmiri youth. His candidacy reflects Jamaat's continued influence in the region, particularly in its focus on socio-economic progress for the valley. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Talat Majid discusses why Jamaat-e-Islami has shifted its long-standing stance of boycotting elections and is now opting to engage in the electoral process. He points to Engineer Rashid's electoral win as a pivotal moment that influenced Jamaat’s decision and notes that he remains open to forming political alliances in the future. Majid also emphasizes the urgent need for improved education and employment opportunities in Kashmir, stressing that the region's youth are ready to take part in the upcoming elections. In addition, he tackles critical topics like the abrogation of Article 370, explaining the prevailing sentiment around it. He further addresses the Kashmiri Pandit exodus, asserting that only Jamaat-e-Islami can successfully bring Kashmiri Hindus back to the valley.
00:00 - Coming Up 01:16 - Introduction 02:42 - Pulwama Terror Attack 05:24 - Independent Candidates in J&K Elections 11:58 - Omar Abdullah vs. Jamaat 17:02 - Election Boycotts in J&K 19:40 - Moderates in Jamaat-e-Islami 24:24 - Ban on Jamaat-e-Islami 30:28 - Abrogation of Article 370 31:30 - Political Parties Uneasy with Engineer Rashid? 32:24 - Majid's Vision for Change 34:40 - BJP's Kashmir Narrative 38:52 - Majid's Election Promises 44:02 - The 'Azadi' Sentiment 48:43 - Kashmiri Pandits Exodus 51:40 - Politics of Fear in Kashmir 54:13 - Which Party Will Jamaat-e-Islami Support?
Waheed ur Rehman Para is the PDP's candidate from the Pulwama constituency and currently serves as the Youth Wing President of the PDP. He is considered a close aide of former J&K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti. Para spent 19 months in jail on allegations of terror links. In 2020, young PDP leader won the DDC elections while being in NIA's custody.
In an episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Para discusses the changes in the valley since the abrogation of Article 370. He mentions that Kashmiri youth are seeking a dignified place in Indian democracy.
Para also addresses PDP's prospects in the J&K polls and the entry of former Jamaat members into the electoral fray. Additionally, he speaks out about the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits and the influence of Pakistan in the valley. He also speaks about his jail time and how it has changed his perspective towards politics.
(00:00) Introduction
(00:47) Time in Jail Under UAPA
(03:37) What Changed After 5th Aug 2019
(05:33) Family Ties with Muftis
(09:00) Kashmiri Identity
(14:45) What Kashmiris Want
(17:56) Kashmiri Leaders' Detention
(20:09) Mainstream Politics
(22:59) Article 370 Abrogation
(24:32) Kashmiri Pandits' Exodus
(28:36) Yale University Program
(29:01) Contest in Pulwama
(30:02) Mehbooba Mufti's Plan
(35:55) Gupkar Alliance Collapse
(40:44) Mehbooba vs. Omar
(42:10) Engineer Rashid's Win in LS
(44:22) How 1987 Rigged Polls Changed J&K
(46:49) Independents in J&K Polls
(51:29) Pak Interfering in J&K Polls?
(53:17) What Does Pulwama's Youth Want
(56:12) Hung Assembly Situation
Lieutenant General PC Nair (Retd.) is a distinguished retired officer of the Indian Army with a career spanning over four decades. He served as the Director General of the Assam Rifles, India’s oldest paramilitary force, where he played a crucial role in counter-insurgency operations in the North-East region.
Lt Gen Nair (Retd) has extensive expertise in dealing with insurgency, tribal dynamics, and border security. He is also known for his deep understanding of India’s internal security challenges, especially in volatile regions like Manipur, Nagaland, and Jammu & Kashmir,
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Lt. Gen. PC Nair discusses the tribal dynamics in Manipur, explaining how the Meitei, Kuki, and Naga communities each have their armed factions. He describes how the unrest in Manipur started over land rights, triggered by the High Court's decision to grant tribal status to the Meiteis, and how the violence grew.
Lt. Gen. Nair also condemned the looting of police armouries in the state and highlighted the Assam Rifles’ critical role in managing the unrest, noting their efforts helped prevent the situation from getting worse. He further explained how instability in Myanmar has contributed to the ongoing crisis in Manipur.
(00:00) Introduction
(01:14) Manipur's Current Situation
(02:58) Looted Arms in Manipur
(04:50) Origins of the Manipur Violence
(08:31) Kuki-Meitei Divide
(12:29) Reasons Behind Manipur Crisis
(14:22) Security Forces' Role
(16:37) Violence Despite Heavy Security
(18:45) Assam Rifles Under Fire
(23:27) Assam Rifles vs. Manipur Police
(25:34) Myanmar's Role in the Violence
(29:23) Scale of Violence
(32:27) Illegal Poppy Cultivation
(39:02) Arms Import into India
(41:02) What Fueled the Violence
(43:57) Solutions to Stop the Violence
(48:52) Has Manipur Been Ignored?
(49:59) Assam Rifles' Role in China Border Conflict
(53:19) Bangladesh Security Situation
(55:15) Bangladesh Crisis
(56:22) Bangladesh Crisis & Indian Borders
(58:07) Elections in J&K
(59:17) Insurgency in J&K
Sajad Gani Lone leads the Jammu and Kashmir People's Conference. He has served as an MLA for the Handwara constituency and was a minister in the PDP-BJP government. He is the youngest son of the Kashmiri separatist leader, Abdul Gani Lone.
In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Sajad Lone contested from the Baramulla constituency but lost to independent candidate Engineer Rashid. Now, Sajad's party is contesting the Jammu & Kashmir assembly polls and He is running from Handwara and Kupwara, the only two seats his party won in the 2014 elections.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Sajad Gani Lone talks about 'Naya Kashmir' and what the upcoming elections mean for the valley after the abrogation of Article 370. He believes the current peace in the valley is 'superficial' and that the 'Azadi' sentiment has just gone underground.
Sajad welcomes ex-Jamaat members running as independents in the J&K elections, which will be held after a decade. He also insists that Yasin Malik did not receive a fair trial. Additionally, he blames the Abdullah family for rigging the 1987 elections, which he says triggered instability and militancy in Jammu and Kashmir.
(00:00) Introduction
(01:01) Elections in J&K
(02:40) Sajad's Twitter Bio
(03:43) Article 370 & 35A
(07:30) Abdul Gani Lone Assassination
(11:05) Kashmiri Pandits' Exodus
(13:31) Pakistan's Support to Hurriyat
(14:35) Pakistani Wife Facing Visa Issues
(19:08) India-Pakistan Talks
(21:15) Ties with PDP & NC
(25:34) Ex-Jamaat Leaders in J&K Polls
(28:11) Independents in J&K Polls
(31:14) Arrest Post Article 370 Abrogation
(33:02) Ties with Yasin Malik
(35:42) Days Before Article 370 Abrogation
(39:02) Peace in Kashmir
(41:32) Federalism in India
(47:33) Public Safety Act
(49:18) On Abdullah Family
(51:18) Kashmiri Pandits
(56:38) Azadi Sentiment in Kashmir
(57:50) Engineer Rashid's LS Win
(59:29) What Should the Centre Do in J&K
(1:02:06) Meeting with Father in Jail
(1:06:28) Being a Kashmiri in Delhi
(1:07:45) Yasin Malik's Trial
(1:12:56) Statehood for J&K
Omar Abdullah, an Indian politician and former Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, has led the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference since 2009. He was the last Leader of the Opposition in the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly before its dissolution in 2018. He has served twice as an MP for Srinagar and was briefly a Union Minister of State for External Affairs in Atal Bihari Vajpayee's government, resigning in 2002 to focus on party matters. Omar was detained under the Public Safety Act in February 2020, with the order revoked in March of the same year.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Omar Abdullah discusses his decision to contest two seats in the upcoming J&K Assembly elections. He also talks about his party's alliance with Congress and explains why the Gupkar Alliance with the PDP failed. He claims that the current J&K Legislative Council is compromised, though he believes it will be strengthened.
The former J&K CM criticizes the abrogation of Article 370 and calls Kashmir's domicile laws the weakest in India. He also accuses the BJP of failing to prevent terror attacks in the South of Pir Panjal. Additionally, Omar shares his views on Afzal Guru's execution, opposing capital punishment. He also emphasizes his party's commitment to bringing Pandits back to the valley.
(0:00) Coming Up
(1:27) Introduction
(2:14) Omar Contesting in Two Seats
(7:55) J&K Assembly: Empowered or Compromised?
(10:00) 'Independent' Candidates in Kashmir
(11:25) Where Does The BJP Stand?
(13:15) Should India Normalize Relations with Pak?
(15:15) Separatism in 'Naya Kashmir'
(20:31) Congress-NC Alliance
(24:50) The Battle For Jammu
(26:48) Kashmir's Domicile Laws
(34:00) Will Pandits Go Back To Kashmir?
(35:22) The IC-814 Saga
(37:40) Afzal Guru's Execution
(39:50) Terror Attacks in Jammu
(44:30) J&K Floods 2014
(46:00) Will NC 'Undo' Article 370?
(49:00) NC-PDP Alliance Split
(53:55) Omar Abdullah's Detention
(57:380 Lunch With the Gandhis
(1:01:00) US Making Inroads in Kashmir?
(1:03:16) Farooq Abdullah's Role Within NC
Nawazuddin Siddiqui is a prominent Indian actor recognized for his contributions to Hindi cinema. He has delivered notable performances in films like Gangs of Wasseypur (2012), The Lunchbox (2013), Raman Raghav 2.0 (2016), and Manto (2018) among others. His work has earned him significant acclaim, with eight of his films being showcased at the Cannes Film Festival. Nawazuddin has also received several prestigious awards, including a National Film Award, a Filmfare Award, and two Asia Pacific Screen Awards.
In this episode of the ANI podcast with Smita Prakash, Nawazuddin Siddiqui opens up about his journey in Bollywood, sharing the struggles he faced in getting roles and how people often doubted he would ever become a hero. The acclaimed actor also talks about the challenges his films face in securing screenings and his interest in producing movies in the future. Nawaz also reflects on his experiences working on the cult classic role of Faizal Khan in Gangs of Wasseypur and shares how he met with followers of the 'real' Faizal Khan to perfect the role. He also offers his perspective on why the second season of Sacred Games fell short of audience expectations.
In this candid interview, Nawazuddin Siddiqui shares his thoughts on the actors and directors who inspire him. He discusses the contrast between commercial and artistic films in Bollywood and how conflict often influences art. He also reflects on his rural upbringing and his mother's reaction to seeing him on the big screen.
(00:00) Introduction
(01:20) Nawazuddin's Definition of Success
(08:40) Nawazuddin's Cinema & Struggles
(16:55) NSD Days
(21:55) Commercial Cinema vs. Alternate Cinema
(26:44) Film Promotions
(28:25) Conflict Reflects in Art
(30:23) Rural Background
(31:39) Gangs of Wasseypur
(36:02) Nawaz's Favourites
(42:17) Films That Impacted Nawazuddin Siddiqui
(43:19) Small Roles
(45:34) Favourite Co-Actors
(46:44) Sacred Games
(51:52) Unexplored Human Emotions in Performance
(55:57) Upcoming Projects
(01:00:50) Family's Role in Life
(01:02:13) Nawaz's Love for Desert
(01:03:52) New Filmmakers That Inspire
Lieutenant General Devendra Pratap Pandey (Retd), is a former Commandant of the Army War College, Mhow, and an ex-Commander of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps (XV). He previously served as the first Director General of the Territorial Army of the Indian Army.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Lt. Gen. Pandey discusses Jammu & Kashmir's current security and political landscape. He talks about how Kashmiris are increasingly rejecting terrorism and addresses the challenges that lay ahead in the upcoming assembly elections. The general also touches on the potential for Pakistani interference in the electoral process and considers how the abrogation of Article 370 could become a key election issue.
Additionally, Lt. Gen. Pandey shares his perspective on the recent terror attacks in Jammu, highlighting the difficulties that the region's tough terrain presents for security forces. This conversation offers valuable insights into the evolving situation in Jammu & Kashmir and its broader implications for India's security.
(00:00) Coming Up
(01:31) Introduction
(02:12) Upcoming J&K Assembly Elections
(04:13) Abrogation of Article 370
(09:39) Terror Attacks in South Pir Panjal
(20:10) Security Challenges In J&K
(29:09) Stone Pelting in Lal Chowk
(33:45) Corps Commander Responsibilities
(37:02) How Integrated Security Works in J&K
(43:30) Article 370 as a Political Issue?
(48:15) India-Pakistan Dialogue
(55:20) Army's Communication Strategy
(58:23) Media Engagement Rules
(01:02:53) Near-Death Experience
(01:06:48) Going Back to Civilian Life
(01:09:15) Agnipath Scheme Controversy
(01:15:55) Has Peace Returned in the Valley?
From fitness trainer to podcaster, Ranveer Allahbadia, known as 'BeerBiceps,' has become a major figure in the digital world. He hosts 'The Ranveer Show,' one of India’s most-watched podcasts, and recently won the "Disruptor of the Year" award from PM Narendra Modi at the National Creators Awards 2024.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Ranveer talks about his journey from gym sessions to podcast fame. He openly discusses his challenges, including criticism of his interviewing style and issues with cancel culture.
Ranveer addresses claims that he oversimplifies topics and explains his approach to making content relatable and easy to understand. He also talks about his business venture, ‘Monk Entertainment,’ and the importance of content creators exploring business opportunities.
He explores the changing world of content creation and the future of India’s creator economy. Ranveer also touches on mental health, noting the burnout that many young content creators face.
Additionally, Ranveer shares how former Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli has inspired him and why interviewing Kohli is still a top goal for him.
(0:00) Introduction
(1:12) Ambani Wedding
(6:09) Lowest Phase in life
(8:37) When Views Don't Come
(12:05) Being a Fitness Trainer
(14:02) BeerBiceps' as a Name
(16:35) The Influence of Trolling
(18:34) Aamir Khan Controversy
(19:58) John Abraham's Controversy
(25:37) Ranveer's Podcast Reach
(29:17) Content
(30:55) Guests from Different Fields
(36:12) Brand Building
(39:17) How to Break Monotony in Content?
(41:07) Trust Factor with Brands
(43:52) Political Podcasts
(48:22) Favourite Guest to Interview
(51:35) Rejected Podcasts
(57:37) Fanboy Moment Over Guests
(1:01:07) Congressmen Rejecting Invites
(1:02:15) Competitions and Learnings
(1:04:07) Nikhil Kamath
(1:06:19) Celebrity Interviewers
(1:08:42) Young Actors
(1:09:43) Influencer as a Career
(1:14:39) Childhood
(1:21:00) Celebrityhood
(1:24:37) Appearing in a Music Video
After the 2019 Haryana Assembly elections, Dushyant Chautala's newly formed Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) emerged as a kingmaker. He allied with the BJP and was sworn in as Haryana's Deputy Chief Minister. However, just before the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, the BJP snapped ties with the JJP, and Dushyant Chautala was shown the exit door.
The Lok Sabha poll results also brought no joy for the JJP, as the party lost its deposits in all 10 seats it contested. With the Haryana elections due in October, the question arises: Is this the end of the road for Dushyant Chautala, or can he become a kingmaker once again?
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, the former Hisar MP goes on record to state that he will not ally with the BJP again. He explains what went wrong with the JJP-BJP alliance after four and a half years.
The former Haryana Deputy CM expresses confidence that his party will become the most important political force in the state and supports the decision to contest all 90 seats in Haryana.
He also criticizes former Haryana CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda, alleging his involvement in the land mafia and claiming that Hooda and Congress were behind the arrest of his grandfather, Om Prakash Chautala, in the JBT scam.
More on the India Alliance, Jat Quota Protests, and former Deputy PM Chaudhary Devi Lal.
Introduction (0:00)
The Chautala Clan (1:08)
Memories with Ch. Devi Lal (2:55)
Memories with Om Prakash Chautala (4:09)
Youngest MP in 16th Lok Sabha (6:33)
Why Dushyant Joined Politics (6:58)
JJP's Prospects in Upcoming Haryana Polls (7:54)
History of Farmers' Protests in India (9:44)
JJP & INLD Performance in Polls (15:47)
Jat Politics in Haryana (18:01)
BJP-JJP Alliance Breakup (21:22)
Exodus in JJP (22:01)
Will JJP Align with BJP Again? (23:42)
Vision for Haryana (27:24)
Role of Sentiments in Elections (30:48)
Infra Collapse & Land Mafia (33:30)
Can JJP Be a Kingmaker? (35:39)
Nayab Singh Saini's Tenure (36:41)
AAP & BSP in Haryana Polls (41:26)
Expulsion from INLD (44:42)
Om Prakash Chautala's Jail Time (48:40)
JJP to Join Hands with INLD? (52:36)
Parivarvaad Politics (53:17)
Influence of Haryana (56:09)
Headlines about Dushyant Chautala (58:32)
Women Wrestlers in Haryana Politics? (1:04:23)
Women's Safety in India (1:07:55)
From an engineer to 'Haseen Dilruba' of the Hindi film industry, Taapsee Pannu has carved out a niche in Bollywood over the past decade. Starting with roles in South Indian movies and working her way up to collaborating with Bollywood’s ‘Badshah,’ Shah Rukh Khan, the ‘Thappad’ actor has come a long way. Known for her candidness, Taapsee is not one to shy away from speaking her mind.
In this episode of the ANI podcast with Smita Prakash, Taapsee discusses her latest projects, including 'Phir Aayi Haseen Dilruba' and 'Khel Khel Mein'. The 'Pink' actor dives into the nepotism debate and also explains why many actors avoid discussing their political views.
She talks about attending the Paris Olympics, where her husband was the coach of the Indian badminton players. Taapsee also reveals why she chooses not to share details about her personal life on social media and addresses the Imane Khelif gender row at the Paris Olympics.
Additionally, Taapsee explores the differences between Southern and Hindi film audiences, recalls her family’s experience during the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, and explains why she chose a career in films over-engineering. Taapsee also criticizes the paparazzi for breaching privacy and invading actors' personal space.
Eknath Shinde is Maharashtra's Chief Minister and a key leader in the Mahayuti Alliance, which includes his party, the Shiv Sena (Shinde), along with the NCP (Ajit Pawar) faction and the BJP. He rose to prominence after leading a significant split within the Shiv Sena, marking a new chapter in the party's history. Eknath Shinde is a staunch follower of Sena founder Bal Thackeray and often invokes his legacy in his political journey.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, CM Eknath Shinde delves into the ongoing issue of Maratha reservation and shares insights on Maharashtra's Ladli Behna Yojana, a scheme aimed at empowering women at the grassroots level. The Maharashtra CM also reflects on the Shiv Sena split and explains how fleeing to Guwahati was a crucial strategy.
CM Shinde remembers Bal Thackeray's enduring influence on Maharashtra's politics and reflects on the Sena's founding Hindutva ideology. He speaks confidently about the upcoming Maharashtra elections, expressing a strong belief that the Mahayuti alliance, will emerge victorious.
Introduction (0:00)
Fake Narratives' in 2024 LS Polls (2:02)
Maratha Reservation (4:58)
Uddhav Thackeray as a Competitor (9:27)
Maha Vikas Aghadi (14:17)
CM Eknath Shinde (18:07)
Shiv Sena Suffered Due to Pawar? (23:37)
Shiv Sena Split (31:12)
NCP(Ajit Pawar): A Reliable Ally? (33:47)
Shinde's Developmental Schemes (36:32)
Farmer Suicides in Maharashtra (39:25)
Freebie Politics in Maharashtra (40:42)
Eknath Shinde's Early Life (45:40)
Family Tragedy (47:25)
Real Reason Behind Shiv Sena Split (52:29)
Shiv Sena's Hindutva Ideologue (56:12)
Who Will Win Maharashtra? (1:01:33)
Raj Thackeray: Balasaheb's 'Real' Successor? (1:05:08)
Mahayuti's CM Candidate (1:09:07)
Ajit Pawar is Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister and a partner in the Mahayuti Alliance, which includes the BJP and the Shiv Sena Shinde faction. He is the nephew of Sharad Pawar, who has served as Maharashtra's Chief Minister four times. In July 2023, Ajit Pawar split the NCP, a party founded by his uncle. In the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, Ajit Pawar faced a setback when his wife lost the election against Supriya Sule, Sharad Pawar's daughter.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Ajit Pawar calls fielding his wife against Supriya Sule in Baramati a bad decision. He also explains why his party and its alliance partners didn't perform well in the Lok Sabha polls. He declines to comment on the possibility of returning to his uncle's party.
The Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister also discusses the farmers' crisis and the state of infrastructure in Pune and Mumbai. He advocates for a caste census, stating that the real numbers of every community should be revealed.
Introduction (0:00)
Pawar vs. Pawar (0:35)
Ajit Pawar with Mahayuti? (9:57)
Maharashtra Assembly Polls (17:15)
Civic Polls (22:07)
Ajit Pawar's Vision (25:44)
Maha Farmers' Crisis (32:10)
Water Management Issues (36:05)
City Infrastructure Issues (40:15)
Voters on Mahayuti Government (49:15)
Jan Samman Yatra (50:53)
Pawar’s Family & Politics (54:52)
Ajit Pawar on 'Waqf Board' (1:01:12)
CM if Mahayuti Wins? (1:05:35)
Ajit Pawar's Future Plans (1:12:15)
Caste Census (1:15:28)
Sonia Narang is one of Delhi's leading dietitians. She provides medication, healthy diet plans, weight loss programs, and workouts. Sonia advocates for realistic lifestyle changes that allow you to enjoy eating while achieving your health goals, rather than imposing strict diets.
In this ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Sonia Narang debunks many myths related to the Indian diet. She also explores the debate between vegetarian and non-vegetarian diets, addressing the notion that vegetarian food doesn't provide enough protein. Sonia explains what a balanced diet should include and how much carbohydrates, protein, and fat it should contain.
She discusses whether skipping breakfast is a good way to lose weight, how to eat for effective weight loss, and the ideal timeline for losing weight. Sonia also talks about the popularity of Sattu and whether it can replace whey protein for gym-goers. She shares 10 tips for maintaining a healthy and balanced diet.
Introduction (0:00)
Dietitian vs. Nutritionist (1:07)
Myth vs. Fact Segment (5:55)
Plant vs. AnimalBased Protein (13:22)
8 Glasses of Water a Day (17:51)
Supplements for Nutritional Needs? (20:03)
Supplements for Children (24:52)
Dairy Products for Bone Health (29:14)
Is Juicing Healthy? (31:15)
Is Ghee Healthy? (33:09)
Papaya & Menstrual Cycle (41:39)
Seasonal Veggies (53:27)
Junk Food (55:57)
Yay or Nay Segment (1:03:45)
Tea Intake1:13:57Weight Loss (1:16:17)
Sattu vs. Whey Protein (1:26:09)