Home
Categories
EXPLORE
True Crime
Comedy
Society & Culture
Business
Sports
History
Fiction
About Us
Contact Us
Copyright
© 2024 PodJoint
00:00 / 00:00
Sign in

or

Don't have an account?
Sign up
Forgot password
https://is1-ssl.mzstatic.com/image/thumb/Podcasts211/v4/b6/46/fb/b646fb4e-384c-752d-34a4-1d96b346f3cc/mza_16522379539863360127.jpg/600x600bb.jpg
Passion Fruit
Saravana Creations
19 episodes
23 hours ago
Welcome to *Passion Fruit*, the podcast that dives into the stories, pursuits, and pivotal moments that add flavor to our lives. Here, we invite guests from all walks of life to share the passions that make them tick—or the surprising turns that set them on unexpected paths. Whether it’s a lifelong hobby, a spontaneous decision, or a lesson learned the hard way, every story is ripe with meaning and insight. Join us as we explore what it means to be truly captivated, the journeys we take, and how a single moment or decision can transform everything
Show more...
Personal Journals
Society & Culture
RSS
All content for Passion Fruit is the property of Saravana Creations and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Welcome to *Passion Fruit*, the podcast that dives into the stories, pursuits, and pivotal moments that add flavor to our lives. Here, we invite guests from all walks of life to share the passions that make them tick—or the surprising turns that set them on unexpected paths. Whether it’s a lifelong hobby, a spontaneous decision, or a lesson learned the hard way, every story is ripe with meaning and insight. Join us as we explore what it means to be truly captivated, the journeys we take, and how a single moment or decision can transform everything
Show more...
Personal Journals
Society & Culture
Episodes (19/19)
Passion Fruit
2.13 The Musical Journey of Savitha Sri Ram

Summary


In this engaging conversation, Savitha Sri Ram, a renowned Carnatic musician and Abhang artist, shares her musical journey from Bombay to Chennai, her experiences with Abhang and Nama Sankirtanam, and the spiritual significance of Pandharpur. She offers valuable advice for the younger generation pursuing music, emphasizing the importance of a classical foundation and consistent practice. The discussion culminates in a heartfelt performance of a special Abhang, reflecting her deep connection to the genre and its roots.


Show more...
5 months ago
14 minutes 30 seconds

Passion Fruit
Art Therapy Research Project

Art Therapy Research Project


Show more...
5 months ago
35 seconds

Passion Fruit
2.12 - Janhvi Sairam: Blending Tradition, Therapy, and Talent

Meet Janhvi Sairam, a freshman at UT Dallas with a heart full of rhythm, melody, and meaning. A trained Bharatanatyam dancer in the Pandanallur style under Dr. Sarita Venkataraman, Janhvi’s journey into classical arts began when she was barely old enough to walk—insisting she learn to dance before most teachers would even consider it. That passion still fuels her today.


But Janhvi is more than just a dancer. She is also a classically trained Carnatic vocalist, an accomplished visual artist, and a budding researcher in music and art therapy. Her Nrithyarpanam performance stood out not only for its technical brilliance but for the emotional storytelling—especially her depiction of Sita’s swayamvara through the eyes of a sakhi, a fresh perspective that moved the audience.


Equally compelling is her dedication to art as a healing force. Janhvi conducted a research project in high school where she interviewed music therapists and created a handbook that introduces the concepts and templates for applying art and music therapy in healthcare settings. Her drive to make a difference shines through every note, step, and sketch.


Beyond the stage and studio, Janhvi explores the world of social media marketing and digital design, managing promotions for clubs and artistic projects. Her future aspirations blend creativity with compassion—using art not just as expression, but as empowerment.


Show more...
5 months ago
29 minutes 37 seconds

Passion Fruit
2.11 From Odissi to Inner Peace – The Journey of Krishnaveni Putrevu

In this deeply enriching episode of Passion Fruit, Lavanya welcomes Krishnaveni Putrevu, founder of Utkala Academy and passionate Odissi exponent. Discover how Krishnaveni transformed her love for Odissi into a movement in the Dallas arts scene while evolving into a life coach who integrates healing practices like EFT and NLP with classical dance. She also previews her upcoming production on Gautam Buddha, discusses her unique puppetry-inspired choreography, and reflects on 20+ years of empowering students artistically and emotionally.


🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the intersections of culture, community, healing, and art.


Show more...
5 months ago
49 minutes 44 seconds

Passion Fruit
2.10 Harmony in the Wind: A Flute Concert and a Journey of Legacy

In a soulful episode of Passion Fruit, host Lavanya sits down with three exceptional artists visiting Dallas: Dr. Vijay Gopal (flute), Vidwan Trichy Harikumar (mridangam), and Trichy Krishnaswamy (ghatam). The trio, here for a concert presented by Shubham Foundation, reflects on their vibrant musical journey across the United States.


For Dr. Vijay Gopal, this Dallas performance marks a new milestone, while his co-artists bring decades of experience to the stage—especially Harikumar Sir, recently retired from All India Radio after 35 years of service. Their camaraderie, rooted in years of shared performances, shines throughout the conversation.


Listeners are treated to behind-the-scenes glimpses of their U.S. tour, memories from scenic road trips, and candid thoughts about balancing tradition with modern challenges like AI and shifting generational attitudes toward the arts. With humor, humility, and heartfelt anecdotes, the conversation explores not just performance, but mentorship, legacy, and the deeply human element of music.


The episode is a must-listen for rasikas, students, and anyone passionate about the endurance and evolution of Carnatic music.

Show more...
5 months ago
36 minutes 33 seconds

Passion Fruit
Soorya Gayatri – The Soulful Voice Reconnecting a Generation to Its Roots

Ten years ago, a young girl with two little ponytails, dressed in a green pattu pavadai, captivated the hearts of millions on YouTube with her serene rendering of Hanuman Chalisa. Today, that same girl—Soorya Gayatri—continues to enchant audiences across the globe with her divine voice, grace, and grounded presence.


In a special episode of Passion Fruit, hosted by Lavanya Inguva, Soorya opened up about her journey from a peaceful village in Kerala to international stages, including a heartfelt concert tour in the U.S. Her deep musical roots, guided first by her mridangist father and later by mentors like Kuldeep M. Pai and Anandi teacher, are evident in every note she sings.


Whether she’s performing classical Carnatic kirtanas, soulful bhajans, or engaging young audiences in sing-alongs, Soorya Gayatri is not just a singer—she is a performer, an ambassador of tradition, and a beacon of inspiration for the next generation.


What sets her apart isn’t just her technical brilliance, but her emotional connection with the music and her listeners. From handwritten lyrics in a notebook to composing family-created songs during the pandemic, Soorya is as authentic as she is talented. Her love for simplicity, rural life, and books over screens reflects a rare humility in a digital age.


Beyond the stage, Soorya is a student of public administration and enjoys peaceful village life, drawing, and her mother’s cooking. Her fans—especially children—see in her not just a performer but a role model who makes Indian classical music feel approachable, soulful, and relevant.


As her U.S. tour concludes, Soorya Gayatri leaves behind more than melodies—she leaves memories, inspiration, and a message: you can stay rooted and still soar.


Show more...
5 months ago
33 minutes 23 seconds

Passion Fruit
Strings of Passion – A Journey with Aditi and the Harp

Guest: Aditi Ravi Battiprolu

Teacher: Ms Young Park ( FISD Harp Director )

Host: Ganesh Subraminian

Video: Saravana Janardhan

Photo: Dheeraj Pelluru

Productions: Saravana Creations


Namaste and welcome to another enriching episode of Passion Fruit! This week, we sit down with Aditi, a young and extraordinarily talented harpist from the Greater Dallas area, currently in 10th grade. Aditi brings a rare and refreshing perspective on an instrument that is often underrepresented in contemporary music spaces—the harp.

Born into a musically inclined family with a dancer mother and a mandolinist father, Aditi’s early exposure to music was inevitable. What began as playful tinkering on a keyboard with Indian film tunes blossomed into a passion for melody, eventually leading her to the harp—thanks, in part, to a short line at an instrument selection night.

Over five years, Aditi has developed a deep bond with the harp, learning not just the technique, but the emotion, coordination, and discipline the instrument demands. She shares her early frustrations with glissandos, the physical challenges of developing calluses, and the mental dexterity required to coordinate hand and foot for pitch control—a feature unique to the harp.

Aditi also opens up about the limited spotlight the harp gets in orchestral and concerto compositions, offering insights into how familiarity and accessibility have shaped its inclusion (or exclusion) in mainstream ensembles. Despite this, her excitement is palpable as she describes performing at recitals with 50 harps, collaborating with legends like Mandolin U. Rajesh and Selvaganesh, and even playing Bollywood melodies on an instrument traditionally reserved for classical western compositions.

This episode also takes a poignant turn when Aditi discusses the current threat to harp programs in her school district, underscoring the financial and logistical challenges surrounding the instrument. But she remains hopeful and proactive—petitioning, performing, and spreading awareness so that others can fall in love with the harp just as she did.

Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a student of the arts, or just curious about instruments off the beaten path, Aditi’s story will strike a chord. Tune in to hear how passion, perseverance, and a little serendipity can come together to create something truly beautiful.

Huge thanks to Ms Young Park ( FISD Harp Director ) known for her inimitable teaching style, making all her students winners at all major events.

Show more...
7 months ago
55 minutes 13 seconds

Passion Fruit
The Many Dimensions of Music - A Conversation with Tanmay Krishnamurthy

Guest: Thanmayee Krishnamurthy
Host: Ganesh SubraminianVideo: Saravana JanardhanPhoto: Dheeraj PelluruProductions: Saravana Creations

Music is more than just sound; it is culture, history, and emotion interwoven into an intricate tapestry of artistic expression. In a recent episode of Passion Fruit, we had the pleasure of delving into this multidimensional world of music with Tanmay Krishnamurthy, a scholar, performer, and teacher of Indian classical music based in Dallas.

The Journey into Ethnomusicology

Tanmayji’s path to music research began with a deep-rooted passion for classical Indian music, nurtured by her family and honed by her guru, Vidwan T.M. Krishna. However, her recent foray into ethnomusicology at the University of North Texas has given her understanding of music an expansive new lens. Ethnomusicology, She explains, is not just about music theory but an exploration of music as culture—how it evolves, who creates it, and why it is created. This perspective, inspired by her guru’s holistic approach to music, now fuels her research into South Indian Carnatic music’s historical and sociological dimensions, particularly focusing on the period between the Vijayanagara Empire and the Trinity composers.

A Musical Upbringing and Cultural Influences

Born in Karnataka and raised in a family deeply immersed in music, Tanmayji’s early years were filled with melodic influences. While her hometown of Holalkere did not have a vibrant Carnatic music scene, her family ensured that she was surrounded by music through home learning, temple festivals featuring Nadaswaram, and annual workshops conducted by her maternal relatives. Competitions and exposure to legendary musicians further cemented her dedication to the art.

Comparing her upbringing to the experiences of students learning Carnatic music outside India, she acknowledges the concerted effort made by parents in the diaspora to keep cultural traditions alive. However, she also notes the differences in immersion, as students in India grow up surrounded by classical music’s nuances in everyday life, whereas students abroad often juggle multiple cultural influences simultaneously.

The Challenges of Teaching in the Digital Age

As a teacher, Tanmayji has observed the impact of technology on learning Carnatic music. While social media and online resources provide accessibility, they also pose challenges. Many students come to class with preconceived notions from online sources, making it difficult to correct stylistic nuances that are crucial to maintaining the authenticity of a raga. She emphasizes the importance of critical listening and learning directly from a guru to truly internalize the essence of Carnatic music.

The Evolution of Performance

Performance, Tanmayji believes, is an ever-evolving experience shaped by the musician’s understanding of music. Drawing from her guru’s philosophy, she stresses the need to move beyond the applause-driven approach and instead focus on the deeper expression of a raga’s emotion. While improvisation and creative expression are key, she insists that musicians must first master the structure before experimenting. For her, concerts are an opportunity to connect with the audience while staying true to the integrity of the music.

Research as the Next Frontier

With performance and teaching firmly established in her musical identity, Tanmayji’s next chapter is focused on research. As he embarks on her PhD, her primary goal is to explore Carnatic music’s historical and sociological aspects through archival studies. She is particularly intrigued by the transition between the Vijayanagara period and the Trinity composers, a phase that remains understudied in musicology. Through this, she hopes to bridge gaps in understanding and contribute to a broader discourse on the evolution of Carnatic music.

Show more...
7 months ago
1 hour 10 minutes 51 seconds

Passion Fruit
Exploring FFA: A Conversation with Harshini from Heritage High School

Hello, everyone! Welcome back to Passion Fruit, where we dive into exciting new topics and meet inspiring individuals. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Harshini, a student from Heritage High School, who has piqued our interest with her involvement in the Future Farmers of America (FFA).


Introducing Harshini and the FFA

Lavanya, representing Passion Fruit, kicks off the conversation by introducing Harshini and expressing her excitement about learning more about FFA, which stands for Future Farmers of America. Harshini explains that while the name might suggest it’s just about farming, FFA represents the whole agriculture industry, including animals, plants, and technology.


Exploring FFA Events and Activities

Harshini describes various FFA events such as Leadership Development Events (LDEs) and Career Development Events (CDEs), which cover a wide range of agricultural topics. From quizzes on agriculture facts to creed speaking and even animal evaluation, FFA provides students with hands-on learning experiences. Harshini shares her personal journey of evaluating chickens and how it opened her eyes to the meticulous grading systems in agriculture, such as those used in grocery stores.


Harshini’s Passion for Animals and Agriculture

Harshini’s enthusiasm for animals, particularly her interest in the veterinary field, is evident as she talks about her experiences in FFA. She shares fascinating insights about using common medications on animals and how her love for animals drives her to learn more about their similarities and differences from humans. Her passion extends to a more personal level, as she discusses her bond with her pig, Arthur, and the joys and challenges of raising and caring for him.


Understanding the Importance of FFA

Throughout the interview, Harshini emphasizes the significance of FFA in educating young people about agriculture. She believes that supporting FFA is crucial for understanding the agricultural industry and the importance of farmers in our daily lives. Harshini points out that many aspects of agriculture, such as technology and organic farming, are integral to FFA’s teachings, which she believes can inspire future generations to pursue careers in agriculture.


The Community and Support in FFA

One of the highlights of Harshini’s FFA experience is the strong sense of community. She shares how fellow members and their families come together to support each other, making FFA more than just an educational program. Harshini describes the camaraderie during events and the friendships formed through shared interests and challenges.


Final Thoughts on FFA and Agriculture

As we wrap up the conversation, Harshini reflects on the valuable lessons she has learned through FFA. Her journey has not only equipped her with practical skills but has also deepened her appreciation for agriculture and the opportunities it offers. She encourages others to explore FFA and discover the various pathways it can provide, whether in animal science, horticulture, or broader agricultural fields.


Thank you, Harshini, for sharing your experiences and insights with us. Your story is an inspiring reminder of the diverse opportunities within agriculture and the impact young people can have on shaping the future of this vital industry. Until next time, keep exploring and learning!

Show more...
9 months ago
28 minutes 10 seconds

Passion Fruit
Embracing Passion Through Dance – A Journey with Janani Sridhar

Welcome to Passion Fruit, where stories of passion and perseverance come to light. In this episode, we had the pleasure of hosting Janani Sridhar, a Bharatanatyam dancer and high school junior. Janani shared her journey of mastering Bharatanatyam, balancing academics, and staying connected to her cultural roots while growing up in the United States.

Janani’s love for Bharatanatyam began as a child, initially encouraged by her mother. What started as a gentle push from her parents evolved into a deep passion. Practicing mudras at a young age, inspired by Indian movies and songs, Janani found a profound connection to her roots through dance.

She completed her Arangetram—the Bharatanatyam debut performance—this past summer, despite challenges like a knee injury and the rigors of virtual training after moving from New Jersey to Dallas. Through it all, Janani developed discipline, time management, and an appreciation for her heritage.

Beyond her Arangetram, Janani is channeling her skills into teaching younger students in her community. She envisions passing on the moral, ethical, and cultural lessons embedded in Bharatanatyam. She also connects her art with her academic pursuits, aspiring to become a military emergency physician.

Janani’s story inspires us to hold onto our passions, even amidst challenges, and to continue learning and growing while passing our knowledge on to others.

Show more...
9 months ago
20 minutes

Passion Fruit
Exploring the Soul of Dhrupad: A Conversation with Arundhati ji

Introduction


Dhrupad, one of the most ancient and profound forms of Indian classical music, is a treasure trove of tradition, meditative depth, and artistic discipline. Recently, our community had the privilege to welcome Srimati Arundhati ji, a distinguished exponent of the Dhrupad style, who brings with her a legacy rooted in the Dagar Gharana and a profound passion for preserving this rich tradition.


A Journey Rooted in Tradition


Arundhati ji’s musical journey is remarkable. From being awarded the prestigious National Scholarship to her current role as a faculty member at the Shankar Mahadevan Academy, she embodies the essence of dedication to classical music. Raised in a family deeply immersed in music—her father a disciple of Pandit Bimle Ndomukharji, her brother a sitarist, and her sister a Kathak dancer—Arundhati ji was destined for a life in music.


The Essence of Dhrupad


During our conversation, Arundhati ji eloquently shared the essence of Dhrupad. Rooted in ancient Vedic traditions and temple music, Dhrupad is a meditative style that emphasizes purity of sound, emotional depth, and disciplined improvisation. She explained the role of syllables derived from sacred chants, which are carefully structured to resonate with the raga and evoke profound emotions. Her deep connection to the Dagar Gharana—a lineage known for its dedication to this art form—shines through in her understanding and delivery.


Teaching and Preserving Tradition


As a teacher, Arundhati ji bridges tradition with modernity. She trains students in both Dhrupad and Khayal styles, emphasizing voice training and the importance of meditation through music. Her goal is to introduce younger generations to the beauty of Indian classical music, making it engaging and accessible while preserving its integrity.


A Performance to Remember


Arundhati ji concluded the session with a captivating performance in Raag Jog, encapsulating the essence of Dhrupad’s meditative and intricate nature. Her precision, depth, and emotive connection left the audience spellbound, reinforcing the timeless relevance of this art form.


Looking Ahead


With her presence in Dallas, Arundhati ji offers a rare opportunity for music enthusiasts to explore the world of Dhrupad. Through performances, workshops, and teaching, she seeks to inspire and connect people to the spiritual and artistic depth of Indian classical music.

Show more...
9 months ago
1 hour 10 minutes 11 seconds

Passion Fruit
A Musical Journey with Sri Krupaa Satyanarayan

Welcome to another exciting episode of our talk show! Today, we have a special guest—someone whose musical journey is as inspiring as her vibrant personality. Let’s welcome Srikrupaa Satyanarayan, one of my favorite young musicians.


Srikrupaa is a freshman at UTD, pursuing computer science, but her heart beats for music. Let’s dive into her journey and discover what makes her story so special.


A Melody Rooted in Memories

Krupa’s love for music sprouted in her childhood. Though not from a musical family, her father, an avid listener, nurtured her connection with music. From listening to M.S. Subbulakshmi’s Bhaja Govindam during car rides to dabbling in music early on, Krupa’s journey took a formal turn in sixth grade when she started learning Carnatic music under Pooja Sivasubramanian. She mastered her basics before advancing her training under Gayatri Kamakoti, who has been mentoring her in the nuances of Manodharmam and professional concerts.

Her learning extended to attending workshops by stalwarts like Prince Rama Varma and Telugu Kritis training under Kalyani Amravati garu, creating a solid foundation for her artistry.


Exploring Beyond Carnatic Music

Krupa’s curiosity transcends boundaries. She delved into Hindustani music, learning voice culture under Vikram P.T., and explored Bollywood-style music through AIKYA productions. Her versatility as a singer bridges the gap between classical and contemporary, enriching her musical palette.

A Dancer at Heart

While her formal dance training in Bharatanatyam paused early, Krupa’s innate expressions often leave audiences wondering if she’s still a dancer. Her occasional filmy dance performances, infused with classical nuances, highlight her love for the art form.

Creative Collaborations

Krupa’s work with AIKYA has been remarkable. She reminisces about impromptu productions like Mohe Rang Do Laal and the full-scale Akhilandeswari video shoot. These projects showcased her ability to bring music and visuals together, offering a glimpse into the hard work behind the scenes.


Balancing Acts: Music, Academics, and Life

Despite a packed schedule of college and musical commitments, Krupa strikes a balance. Her advice to high schoolers juggling similar pursuits? Prioritize your passions, ensure self-care with adequate sleep and nutrition, and embrace the uniqueness of your extracurricular interests.

Her parents play pivotal roles—her father as the backend support and her mother as the front-row cheerleader. Together, they form a solid support system for Krupa’s endeavors.


Empowering Leadership and Community Service

Krupa’s involvement with organizations like Sangeet Bharati and GEMHS reflects her dedication to nurturing talent and leadership. From coordinating events like Navaratri Sangeetotsav to training young minds in audio and video production, her contributions make a difference.


A Song to Remember

As a closing treat, Krupa delighted us with Bala Tripura Sundari, a piece close to her heart. Her soulful rendition brought life to the episode, leaving the audience spellbound.


Wrapping Up

Krupa’s journey exemplifies how passion and dedication can create a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. As we bid her farewell for now, we look forward to more inspiring episodes with her in the future.


Stay tuned for more episodes featuring extraordinary stories and incredible talents.


Until next time, keep exploring your passions!

Show more...
9 months ago
20 minutes 57 seconds

Passion Fruit
The Magic of Ashik Prakash

Welcome to Passion Fruit, where we celebrate the spark of passion that drives individuals to achieve the extraordinary. Today, we’re diving into the spellbinding world of magic with a man whose passion for illusion and mentalism defies the odds—Ashik Prakash from Dallas.


Winner of Frisco’s Got Talent and a proud contestant on America’s Got Talent auditions, Ashik’s journey into the magical realm is nothing short of extraordinary. Let’s unravel his inspiring story and a few tricks along the way!

Discovering Magic at 32: A Tale of Serendipity

Unlike many magicians who start young, Ashik’s tryst with magic began at the age of 32. Growing up entertained by the likes of David Blaine and Criss Angel, he was intrigued but never thought he’d step into their world. It wasn’t until a chance encounter with a magician performing at a pub in Mangalore that Ashik felt the “magic kick.” That moment ignited his passion, leading him to pick up a deck of cards and start practicing simple tricks.

“My first audience was my mom,” Ashik recalls fondly. “Her reactions kept me motivated. From there, I started performing for neighborhood kids and small gatherings, and the rest is history.”


Self-Taught and Self-Made

Ashik’s journey into magic is a testament to self-learning. With YouTube, library books, and sheer determination as his guides, he began mastering tricks one by one. His focus shifted from basic card tricks to the sophisticated art of mentalism, which involves reading and influencing minds—a genre that truly captivated him.

He honed his skills through constant practice in front of mirrors and live audiences, from street magic sessions in Bangalore’s malls to high-profile corporate gigs in the U.S.


The AGT Experience

Auditioning for America’s Got Talent was a dream come true for Ashik. Though the competition was fierce, with talent from all genres vying for a spot, he relished the experience.

“I realized that to stand out on such a stage, you need a unique concept. Magic alone isn’t enough; it’s about creating an unforgettable experience,” Ashik shares. While his journey on AGT hasn’t concluded, he’s focused on developing fresh ideas that could one day make him a standout act.


Balancing Passion and Profession

For Ashik, magic remains a passion rather than a full-time career. By keeping his day job in IT, he ensures that magic stays a source of joy rather than a routine obligation. “I perform at corporate events and private shows, picking gigs that excite me. This balance helps me keep the magic alive, both figuratively and literally.”


Solo Show Success

One of Ashik’s proudest moments was his sold-out solo show in Frisco, Texas, following his Frisco’s Got Talent win. Despite initial hesitations about marketing and ticket sales, he pushed forward and delivered a performance that left audiences clamoring for more.

“People still ask me when the next show is,” he beams. “It was a turning point that boosted my confidence and deepened my love for performing.”


The Magic of Mind Reading

Ashik’s evolution into a mentalist has added a captivating dimension to his performances. Whether it’s guessing names from someone’s past or influencing decisions in real-time, his tricks leave audiences spellbound.

But does he actually read minds? With a mischievous smile, Ashik says, “That’s for me to know and you to wonder.”


A Lesson in Passion

Ashik’s story proves that age is no barrier to pursuing your dreams. From a curious observer to a magician and mentalist who captivates audiences, his journey is a lesson in persistence, creativity, and passion.

As he continues to enchant audiences with his illusions and mental feats, Ashik inspires us to explore our hidden passions and let them flourish.


Stay tuned for more stories of passion brought to life, only on Passion Fruit.


Do you have a story of passion you’d like to share? Reach out to us, and you could be our next feature!

Show more...
10 months ago
35 minutes 11 seconds

Passion Fruit
Parupalli Sri Ranganath

The Passion Fruit channel hosts Sri Parupalli Ranganath, a devoted singer of the Govinda Namalu, who discusses his rich family history and his musical journey. He recounts how his father, Parupalli Satyanarayani, and other family members were influential in his musical upbringing. He shares his work with All India Radio and various recording projects, particularly focusing on Annamacharya Kirtans. Ranganath Garu explains his contributions to devotional music, his approach to composing, and the significant influence of Venkateshwaraswamy on his career. He also talks about the challenges and developments in preserving and performing traditional Karnataka music. The interview includes a few of his live singing performances and mentions his efforts to upload his works to YouTube.

Show more...
10 months ago
1 hour 16 minutes 36 seconds

Passion Fruit
Exploring Art and Resilience: A Conversation with Kathak Maestro Mrs. Nivedita Bhattacharya

In the latest episode of our artist spotlight series, we had the privilege of speaking with Mrs. Nivedita Bhattacharya, an accomplished Kathak dancer and founder of a renowned music institution in Lucknow, India. With over 40 years of dedication to classical dance and music, her journey is a testament to passion, resilience, and the transformative power of art.

Mrs. Bhattacharya shared her early fascination with dance, nurtured during her schooling years in Pilani, where her parents—an instrumentalist and a vocalist—had hoped she’d follow a musical path. However, her heart was captivated by the grace and expression of Kathak. Despite her father’s initial resistance and a life-changing accident that confined her to bed for three years, she persevered, using her passion for dance as a means to rebuild her life.

From mastering the Jaipur Gharana to embracing the nuanced elegance of Lucknow Gharana, Mrs. Bhattacharya shared the challenges and triumphs that shaped her career. Her institute, built on the foundation of her father’s vision, continues to foster a safe and empowering space for women, producing talented artists who excel across India and beyond. The institution’s ethos of accessibility ensures that learning the arts is not hindered by financial constraints, a philosophy upheld since its inception.

In addition to her thriving institute in Lucknow, Mrs. Bhattacharya is also expanding globally, guiding students in the U.S. through her collaborations. Her daughter, Antara, an accomplished vocalist and Ph.D. scholar, carries forward the family’s artistic legacy with distinction.

This interview is not just a glimpse into a Kathak dancer’s journey; it’s an ode to resilience, artistry, and the impact of nurturing talent.

Show more...
10 months ago
30 minutes 59 seconds

Passion Fruit
From Bangarpet to Boston: The Inspiring Journey of Khudsiya Naseer

Khudsiya Naseer, also known as Khushi, is a weightlifting champion and a trailblazer in women’s empowerment. Raised in the small towns of Bangarpet and Kolar, her life is a testament to resilience. Despite enduring loss, societal rejection, and personal tragedies, she emerged as an international icon. Khushi is the first Muslim woman in India to win international medals in weightlifting and set a world record by lifting 300 kilograms post-C-section.


From delivering a speech at Harvard University to inspiring women worldwide, Khushi’s journey from Bangarpet to Boston is an extraordinary tale of determination and hope. With plans to pull a Boeing 777 airplane, Khushi continues to break barriers and redefine possibilities.

Show more...
10 months ago
1 hour 18 minutes 38 seconds

Passion Fruit
Exploring GEMHS with Thavishi Dumpala and Samyuktha Gudimella

GEMHS (Girls, Education, Music, Health, and Social Services) is a platform for creativity, collaboration, and empowerment. Led by president Thavishi Dumpala and vice president of technology Samyuktha Gudimella, GEMHS provides opportunities for rising artists, seminars in technology and arts, and a supportive community. Visit GEMHS.org to learn more!

Show more...
10 months ago
2 minutes 12 seconds

Passion Fruit
Bring Your Own Music (BYOM): A Journey of Passion, Dedication, and Community

BYOM (Bring Your Own Music) is a unique initiative in the DFW area that provides a platform for musicians, particularly students of classical music, to perform in an inclusive, supportive environment. Founded to address the lack of accessible performance opportunities, BYOM allows individuals of all ages and skill levels to showcase their talent on a professional stage. With state-of-the-art audio and video systems, live-streaming capabilities, and a strong community network, BYOM has successfully hosted over 200 concerts in just two years. The program also offers resources like connecting performers with accompanists and plans to expand its concept to other cities.


https://www.gemhs.org/

Show more...
11 months ago
15 minutes 12 seconds

Passion Fruit
Exploring Creativity and Passion with Sunil and Swetha – A Filmmaking Journey

In this episode of Passion Fruit, Sunil and Swetha, a filmmaking duo from DFW Metroplex, share their journey of crafting four short films over four years. They discuss the inspiration behind their latest film Samaya, the challenges of filmmaking, and their plans for future creative projects.

Show more...
11 months ago
22 minutes 7 seconds

Passion Fruit
Welcome to *Passion Fruit*, the podcast that dives into the stories, pursuits, and pivotal moments that add flavor to our lives. Here, we invite guests from all walks of life to share the passions that make them tick—or the surprising turns that set them on unexpected paths. Whether it’s a lifelong hobby, a spontaneous decision, or a lesson learned the hard way, every story is ripe with meaning and insight. Join us as we explore what it means to be truly captivated, the journeys we take, and how a single moment or decision can transform everything