A show where I invite fascinating individuals from across the UAE to explore how our cultures make each of us who we are. We talk all things happiness, identity, life, culture, and philosophy to provide thought-provoking and meaningful insights to the youth about how society shapes us about from the people who seem like they’ve figured it all out…or not.
A show where I invite fascinating individuals from across the UAE to explore how our cultures make each of us who we are. We talk all things happiness, identity, life, culture, and philosophy to provide thought-provoking and meaningful insights to the youth about how society shapes us about from the people who seem like they’ve figured it all out…or not.
In this episode, Mahreen sits down with the powerhouse voice of Natasha Baig, one of Pakistan’s most soulful artists redefining the sound of modern Sufi music. From her early days breaking into Sufi rock to finding divine connection through song, Natasha shares how her music became a medium for faith, love, and self-discovery.We explore the deeper meaning of Sufism, the role of poetry in her creative process, and how spirituality continues to shape her journey as an artist. From Coke Studio to meditative moments at shrines, Natasha opens up about the lessons, doubts, and revelations that come with walking the path of love.Follow Karak With Mahreen for more profound conversations on life, spirituality, and the art of being human.
In this episode, we journey through the intersections of culture, faith, and human experience—seen through the eyes of a traveler who has lived between worlds. From discovering kindness in unexpected places to reflecting on religion beyond dogma, we explore how love, tolerance, and humility shape our understanding of humanity.
Through stories from Pakistan, the US, India, and tribal communities, we unpack how media, politics, and perception influence division—and what it truly takes to rebuild unity. This heartfelt conversation asks a fundamental question: Can understanding each other be the greatest form of faith?Follow Karak With Mahreen for more profound conversations on life, culture, and what it means to be human.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karakwithmahreenTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@karakwithmahreenYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KarakWithMahreenOur incredible Guest:Yousuf Bashir QureshiInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/yousufbashirqureshi/
In this episode, we dive deep into the meeting point of Eastern, Western, and Islamic philosophies, exploring how each shapes our understanding of identity, happiness, and the human condition. From the roots of individualism to the influence of modernity, we unpack how doctrines, traditions, and worldviews shape the way we live, think, and connect. This thought-provoking conversation bridges culture, spirituality, and philosophy to ask a timeless question: what truly unites us as human beings?
Follow Karak With Mahreen for more meaningful conversations on life, identity, and culture with fascinating individuals.
This episode is brought to you by Brooke Bond Red Label
Our incredible guests:
In this episode, we dive into the mind of an entrepreneur, exploring what drives ambition, resilience, and vision in the face of risk and uncertainty. From his first venture and early failures to finding mentors, raising capital, and building strong teams, Nathan shares the raw realities behind the startup grind. This conversation unpacks the lessons, sacrifices, and habits that shape successful founders, and what it truly means to chase purpose over comfort.
Follow Karak With Mahreen for more meaningful conversations on life, identity, and culture with fascinating individuals.
Our incredible guest:
In this episode, we step onto the pitch of cricket culture, exploring its power to unite, divide, and inspire across South Asia and the Gulf. From the craze of fans who idolize their favorite players, to the business, superstition, and rituals behind the game, this conversation dives into cricket as more than just a sport—it’s identity, rivalry, and passion.Follow Karak With Mahreen for more meaningful conversations on life, identity, and culture with fascinating individuals.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karakwithmahreenTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@karakwithmahreenYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KarakWithMahreenThis episode is brought to you by Brooke Bond Red LabelInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/brookebondredlabelarabiateaOur incredible guests:Sameer YoonusCharvi BhattNilansh Keswani
In this episode, we journey through the heart of Gulf culture with stories spanning the UAE, Kuwait, and Oman. From the warmth of Arab hospitality to the history of Omani trade, the politics of Majlis gatherings to how Gulf youth preserve identity in a globalized world, this conversation uncovers the traditions, stereotypes, and shared values that define life in the region.
Follow Karak With Mahreen for more meaningful conversations on life, identity, and culture with fascinating individuals.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karakwithmahreen
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@karakwithmahreen
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KarakWithMahreen
This episode is brought to you by Brooke Bond Red label
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brookebondredlabelarabiatea
Our incredible guests:
Ebrahim Abbas
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ebrahim_ka
Eisa Alhabib
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eisayo/
Hisham Al Yahyai
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hisham.alyahyai/
In this episode, we sit down with celebrity chef and MasterChef India judge Kunal Kapur for a delicious deep dive into the heart of Indian cuisine. From the science of food oils to why we don’t like eating alone, this conversation uncovers the beauty, complexity, and cultural weight of what’s on our plates.
This episode is brought to you by Brooke Bond Red label! In this episode, we bring together two voices who don’t often share the same mic — a South Asian expat raised in Dubai and a young Emirati local. From growing up in a city full of emigrants to navigating cultural assumptions, language gaps, and chai wars, this conversation explores what it means to belong in a place built by people from everywhere
This episode is brought to you by Brooke Bond Red label! In this episode, we bring together creators from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal to unpack what it means to be South Asian, together and apart. From biryani debates to marriage pressure, language barriers to chai traditions, we explore the shared roots and striking differences that shape each country’s identity.Topics include colorism, family dynamics, gender expectations, accents, food culture, and the impact of immigration, all through the lens of creators living in the UAE and navigating their South Asian heritage.This roundtable is raw, emotional, and at times hilarious — an honest conversation about what it means to belong in a subcontinent with many faces.
In this episode, we explore fatherhood, identity, and what it means to stay in a broken system. Topics include raising kids abroad, desi marriages falling apart, men’s mental health, public pressure, cancel culture, and doing business in Pakistan — all through the lens of Junaid Akram’s unapologetically honest perspective.
In this episode, we explore parallel universes, reincarnation, and the nature of our thoughts. Topics include self-awareness, the struggle to sit with your mind, finding purpose, craving attention, and Gen Z’s growing interest in spirituality.
In this episode, we explore the realities of modern relationships, what causes breakups, gender roles, and mental health. We discuss divorce rates, societal expectations in brown families, long-distance love, and the ideal age for marriage across cultures.
In this episode, we discuss how it is like living in Canada with Mo Amir, host of Vancolour in British Columbia, Canada. He discusses about everyday life, his experience as a Pakistani immigrant in Canada, racism, and cultural practices.
In this episode, we discuss how life is like in china with Hannah, a multimillionaire businesswoman in China. She discusses how relationships, everyday life, technology, and cultural practices are like in the country compared to the West.Follow Karak With Mahreen for more meaningful conversations on life, identity, and culture with fascinating individuals.
This International Worker’s Day, we got the opportunity to talk to Talha, an incredible Careem Captain who is balancing his intense work with social media. He dreams to be a business man and buy a BMW for his best friend. We talked about his life, experiences, earnings, and challenges as a Careem driver.
Shout-out to the real ones, the workers who wake up early, hustle hard, and keep everything running behind the scenes. You build, carry, clean, fix, and move the world forward. We see you. We appreciate you.
Happy International Worker's Day!
In this episode, Parul Gulati, actress and founder of Nish Hair, shares her journey from the entertainment industry to building her own business. She talks about growing up in a culture with strong family values, the challenges of independence for women, and how her background shaped her career choices. Parul also opens up about the realities of the entertainment world, discussing whether TV actors are treated unfairly and revealing the truth about Shark Tank! Beyond acting, she dives into the business world, sharing how she started Nish Hair and the differences between running a company in India vs. Dubai. She also talks about her experiences in Dubai and how the city compares to other places she has worked. From personal struggles to professional success, this episode is all about ambition, resilience, and breaking stereotypes. Grab your Karak and join us for an inspiring conversation!
In this episode, Dr. Nabila Ismail, a licensed pharmacist turned travel content creator, shares her incredible journey of quitting her stable healthcare job to explore the world. She opens up about navigating stereotypes, traveling solo as a Pakistani-American woman, and her transformative trip to Pakistan after a 10-year gap. From the unique Kalash Valley to exploring places even her family in Pakistan had never visited, she experiences the country in a whole new way. We also dive into the challenges of convincing South Asian parents about solo travel, the reality of traveling without a set purpose, and the lessons she learned along the way. Whether it’s backpacking in Spain, performing Umrah alone, or building a travel community for South Asians, her story is one of courage, self-discovery, and breaking norms. Grab your Karak for an inspiring conversation about travel, cultural identity, and making your dreams a reality!
In this episode, Martin Al-Masri, founder of the House of Victor, shares his inspiring journey of coming to Dubai and building one of the city’s leading fashion brands. He talks about his deep connection to Dubai, the discipline and opportunities it offers, and the life lessons he’s learned along the way. Martin dives into the difference between old money and new money, the art of filtering the right people in your life, and why timing and energy are crucial for success. He also reflects on navigating cultural stereotypes, embracing change, and his love for the diverse cultures of Dubai. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, growth, and what it takes to thrive in a competitive world. Grab your Karak for this motivating episode!
In this episode, Shayoon, an entrepreneur and healer, shares her inspiring journey of building a healing center while balancing life between Kenya and the UAE. She talks about the importance of reconnecting with nature, sustainable living, and raising children with conscious values. Shayoon opens up about her own healing journey, overcoming trauma through spirituality, and how it deepened her connection to her faith. She also sheds light on the dark realities of the internet, sharing her work in child rescue and the importance of online safety for kids. Shayoon further reflects on her experience of giving birth at home and the need to question societal norms around healthcare. Grab your Karak for an eye opening conversation about self-discovery, healing, and breaking societal norms!
In this episode, Leila shares her experience growing up as an Iranian-American after 9/11 and how it shaped perceptions of Middle Easterners. Leila talks about the misconceptions surrounding Islam and its surprising similarities to Christianity and Judaism. She also explains the difference between race and ethnicity, showing how these ideas are viewed differently in the West and the East. Grab your Karak and join us for a powerful conversation on identity, religion, and culture!
