ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash

On 10th November 2025, a terror blast near the Red Fort shook the capital. For the first time in over a decade, Delhi witnessed an attack in the heart of the city. Early investigations pointed to Pakistan-backed terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed. The attackers were doctors and engineers. Is this the rise of white-collar terrorism in India? Was the Delhi blast a retaliation by Pakistan after India struck Jaish’s headquarters during Operation Sindoor? Was this an intelligence failure, or did Indian agencies actually manage to limit the damage?In this edition of The ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, we are joined by Sushant Sareen, Senior Fellow at ORF, who is known for his sharp and unfiltered analysis of Pakistan and its security establishment. Ashok Chand, a former Delhi Police officer who investigated major terror cases, including the 2001 Parliament attack, the Red Fort attack in 2000 and the Jama Masjid blast.This episode is a deep dive into India’s security challenges, Pakistan-backed terror networks and why India cannot afford complacency.00:00 – Introduction01:48 – Red Fort 10/11 blast06:59 – Intelligence Networks vs Terror Modules10:25 – Psychology of Dr. Umar Nabi15:42 – The Red Fort 2000 Attack22:47 – Afzal Guru’s role in Parliament attack27:47 – The Ammonium Nitrate Case Study31:35 – ‘White-Collar’ Terrorism in India38:26 – Dr Shaheen’s Role as Jaish recruiter 47:51 – Delhi Car Blast: Retaliation for Op Sindoor?57:11 – Online Radicalisation1:01:46 – Delhi Blast: Suicide Bomber or Panic Blast?1:08:56 – What Drives a Suicide Bomber1:12:01 – 2010 Jama Masjid attack1:16:51 – Crime Scene Protocols After Terror Attacks1:20:41 – Poverty Creates Terrorists?1:25:29 – Judicial Hurdles in Terrorism Trials1:37:57 – Cross-Border Influence on Kashmiris

Arun Kumar is Associate Editor of the Hindustan Times, with over three and a half decades of experience covering Jharkhand and Bihar. Ravi Upadhyay is a Senior Journalist who has worked with the news agency UNI for several years in Chandigarh and Patna.In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, senior journalists break down the latest opinion polls, voter trends and ground realities from across the state. They analyse the Bihar elections to see who was ahead - Nitish Kumar, Tejashwi Yadav, or how Prashant Kishor’s strategies influenced voters.They also talk about how women voters, youth participation, and high voter turnout shaped the Bihar elections, along with how media coverage might have influenced the results.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction 00:35 – PK’s Influence in Bihar05:10 – Nitish’s Options Post-Election07:47 – Tejashwi vs Tej Pratap12:25 – Will Nitish Kumar Be Bihar CM Again?18:18 – Women Voters & High Turnout25:23 – Rahul Gandhi's Influence on Gen Z31:26 – ‘Jeevika’ Scheme33:53 – Bihar’s Unique Caste Politics38:27 – Social Media’s Role in Bihar Elections41:38 – Role of Jeevika Didis42:43 – Nitish Kumar's Health46:04 – Tejashwi’s Public Image48:57 – Muslim Voting Patterns

Chirag Paswan is the Founder and Chief of the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas). He serves as the Union Minister for Food Processing Industries in the NDA government. His party is contesting 29 seats in the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections.In this episode of The ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Chirag speaks about his party’s prospects in the Bihar polls and shares his political ambitions. He calls Prime Minister Narendra Modi his inspiration and says PM Modi is the only reason he remains with the NDA.Chirag also takes a dig at Rahul Gandhi’s Gen Z appeal, calls Nitish Kumar a “necessity” for the NDA, and reveals why he aims to become a Vidhayak by 2030.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction00:38 – Tense Moments During Voting02:47 – Campaign Strategy05:15 – Ticket Distribution in NDA07:17 – Disappointment After the First Phase?09:46 – Rahul’s ‘Reservation in Army’ Remark14:09 – Why Decoding Bihar Is Difficult17:40 – Ram Vilas Paswan’s Legacy20:49 – How Chirag Paswan Differs from His Father25:49 – Is Nitish Kumar a Necessity for the BJP?31:18 – When Will Chirag Return to State Politics?33:54 – Image of a Bihari in 202536:49 – Casteism in Bihar46:39 – Challenges for the NDA

Prashant Kishor, the man who has designed winning election campaigns for leaders across party lines, is now in the political battlefield himself. After the first phase of the Bihar polls, Kishor speaks his mind like never before.In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, he calls migrant workers the “real X-factor” of this election. He claims that “Nitish is going” and that the people of Bihar want change.He takes a dig at Rahul Gandhi over his appeal to Gen-Z voters, asking, “Why would India’s youth listen to Rahul Gandhi?”Kishor also explains why Jan Suraaj will “force another election if needed,” denies any post-poll alliance, and shares his blunt view of the Aam Aadmi Party and Arvind Kejriwal: “Their only weakness is a lack of patience and perseverance.”An unfiltered conversation with the political strategist-turned-politician who has seen Indian politics from every side.*Timestamps*00:00 – Introduction01:10 – First Phase of Voting in Bihar02:21 – Role Of Migrant Labourers03:49 – End of Nitish Kumar's Era?05:53 – Female Voters In Bihar10:07 – Muslim Yadav Equation12:15 – What do Muslims in Bihar Want?13:05 – Role of Gen-Z in Bihar Election19:15 – Caste Politics in Bihar24:57 – What if Jan Suraaj Joins a Coalition?27:35 – Jan Suraaj Ideology34:41 – Comparison with Kejriwal35:46 – Reforms in Bihar

Sanjay Kumar Jha is a member of the Rajya Sabha and serves as the National Working President of Janata Dal (United). He is also the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Transport, Tourism, and Culture.In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Sanjay Jha discusses the dynamics of NDA's Modi-Nitish factor, record voter turnout in the first phase of the Bihar election, and explains the Gen-Z factor in Bihar elections.Jha also speaks about Nitish Kumar's health and whether he will be fit for the next CM. He addresses whether his son will be the political successor of Nitish Kumar.More on Tejashwi Yadav, Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Vote Chori’ claim and the possible influence of Prashant Kishor on Bihar politics.*Timestamps*00:00 – Introduction00:44 – Anti-Incumbency Factor in Bihar03:13 – Bihar Mukhyamantri Mahila Rozgar Yojana06:21 – Rahul Gandhi's ‘Vote Theft’ Claims09:08 – ‘Bahubali’ Candidates in Bihar Polls12:44 – Personality Factor in Bihar Polls14:43 – Bihar’s Trust in Nitish Kumar15:52 – Prashant Kishor Factor17:25 – Tejashwi Yadav & Family Politics Trend25:35 – ‘Gen Z’ Voter Factor in Bihar28:14 – Job Creation in Bihar32:20 – Future of Bihar Politics

Soha Ali Khan is an actor, author, podcaster, and one of the most articulate voices from the Pataudi family. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Soha opens up about fame, family, and finding her own identity away from the shadow of her legendary parents, Sharmila Tagore and Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi.She talks about Rang De Basanti, why she chose to step away from films, and what shaped her journey. Soha also reflects on her brother Saif Ali Khan’s career and what it was like growing up in a household where wit, grace, and legacy coexisted.In a candid conversation, she shares her thoughts on the fear of self-censorship in cinema and the debate around 8-hour workdays for actors. Soha also opens up about motherhood, privilege, and protecting her daughter’s privacy in a world obsessed with celebrity culture.00:00 – Introduction02:01 – Family Traits Soha Inherited03:14 – Sharmila Tagore on Doing OTT Series07:57 – Did Saif Want to Be a Cricketer?11:44 – How Soha Got Her Role in Rang De Basanti15:12 – Facing Backlash as Filmmakers25:10 – Soha on Saif’s Career30:07 – Motherhood and Work33:48 – Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi as a Father37:30 – Soha on Being a Podcaster41:48 – Sharmila Tagore as a Grandmother42:52 – How Soha Met Kunal45:23 – The Weight of Heritage46:29 – The Bhopal House Story47:29 – Rabindranath Tagore Connection50:45 – Chef Kunal or Chef Soha?53:17 – Soha’s Workout Routine56:05 – Privacy Concerns & Saif’s House Break-In01:00:21 – Parenting Rules

D. Sivanandhan is one of Mumbai’s most respected former Police Commissioners, a man who saw the city’s darkest days up close, from the bloody gang wars of the 1990s to the 1993 bomb blasts that shook Mumbai. He led the fight against Dawood Ibrahim’s underworld empire and is known for cleaning up the mafia.In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, D. Sivanandhan takes us back to that era, when gangsters ruled the streets, businessmen were shot in broad daylight, and the Mumbai Police decided to strike back.He talks about how the cleanup began, the underworld’s deep links with Bollywood and real estate, and how Dawood’s network thrived with Pakistan’s ISI. D. Sivanandhan also shares what went wrong during the 26/11 terror attacks and what it truly takes to protect a city like Mumbai.00:00 – Introduction01:42 – The Book 'The Brahmastra Unleashed'05:35 – 90s Mumbai Underworld16:48 – How Powerful the Underworld Was20:45 – Dawood & the 1993 Bomb Blasts25:46 – Transition from Karim Lala to Dawood31:26 – Dawood vs Chhota Rajan43:13 – The Underworld’s Pact46:40 – Politics & Mumbai Police58:28 – Bollywood's Underworld Connection01:09:13 – Reel Encounters vs Real Violence01:12:04 – The 26/11 Attacks01:23:21 – New-Age Threats & Security Gaps01:32:12 – Rise of Cybercrime

Ajai Chowdhry is one of India’s leading tech visionaries and a co-founder of HCL, the company that helped build India’s computer revolution. Over the decades, he has advised governments and industry leaders on how to make India a true technology powerhouse.He is also the chairman of the EPIC Foundation, an initiative aimed at developing electronic products of national importance and driving India toward self-reliance in technology.In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Ajai Chowdhry talks about the real state of ‘Make in India’: are we truly manufacturing, or just assembling parts? He shares his insights on India’s tech product gap, China’s deep grip on the electronics supply chain, and what India must do to build world-class technology from the ground up.He also opens up about his journey with HCL, the early days of India’s tech scene, and why the next big challenge for the country is not coding, but creating. Ajai Chowdhry also talks about how AI is reshaping the future of jobs, and why, without strong R&D, ‘Make in India’ will remain just a slogan.Timestamps00:00 - Coming Up02:24 - Introduction03:28 - Why India Has No Global Product13:27 - Layoffs in the Tech Industry17:40 - India Trapped in US–China Trade War?20:25 - Why India Needs Its Own Tech IP27:02 - The Push for Data Localisation38:47 - The Making of HCL45:55 - Indian Industries Ready for the AI Boom?51:50 - Human vs Machine: Who Wins?56:16 - Quantum Computer Ops in India01:03:38 - The Fight Over Rare Earths01:07:28 - Nurturing Tech Talent in India01:12:11 - Family & Early Life

Jaiveer Shergill is a Supreme Court lawyer and national spokesperson of the BJP. He is known for his sharp arguments, nuanced views, and fearless commentary. Once among the Congress party’s national spokespersons, he made headlines when he quit the party, citing “sycophancy over merit,” before joining the BJP.In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Jaiveer Shergill opens up about Punjab’s drug crisis, unemployment and migration, his take on the ‘Vote Chori’ campaign, and the state of Congress politics today.He also speaks about how the Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab has failed to deliver on its promises in the state. Furthermore, he talks about faith, Sikh history, and the need to revive Punjab’s spiritual legacy.00:00 – Coming Up02:24 – Introduction03:36 – Punjab’s Drug Crisis11:18 – India’s Silent Security Threat15:29 – Punjab’s Youth Migration22:14 – BJP’s Future in Punjab30:24 – Influence of Diaspora in Punjab39:15 – Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Vote Chori’ Allegations51:00 – Rahul Gandhi’s Style of Politics01:00:14 – Diljit Dosanjh Controversy01:08:51 – Quick Reactions on Stars, Politicians & Food01:24:45 – Rift Between RSS and BJP?01:29:19 – Cultural Significance of ‘Jore Sahib’

Prahlad Kakkar is one of India’s most iconic ad filmmakers. He is the man behind some of the most memorable commercials in Indian advertising history, including “Yehi Hai Right Choice Baby! Aha!” for Pepsi and the “2 Minutes!” Maggi noodles ad. Known for his sharp wit, creativity, and fearless storytelling, he is called the ‘adman’ of India. For over 40 years, Kakkar has changed how brands talk to people through advertisements.In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Prahlad Kakkar talks about the golden era of Indian advertising, his collaborations with Bollywood stars like Shah Rukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai, and Priyanka Chopra, and the unforgettable Salman-Aishwarya feud that made headlines.He shares insights into how ads became a mirror of Indian society, the craft of storytelling in 30 seconds, and why today’s advertising world lacks the madness and maverick spirit it once had.Timestamps00:00 – Intro 00:37 – Iconic Ads01:30 – Prahlad’s Favourite Ad06:16 – Pepsi Ad Story09:37 – Aishwarya’s Pepsi Casting12:54 – Aamir’s Pepsi Casting15:55 – Maggi Ad Idea24:14 – Maggi Ketchup Ad Story33:03 – Understanding Audience Pulse37:09 – When Actors Misfit Ads39:11 – Big B as Perfect Fit for Ad42:20 – Shabana & Smita Era47:54 – Aishwarya vs Sushmita51:18 – Aishwarya–Salman Feud55:34 – Sridevi & Hema Era59:30 – Ad Films vs Feature Films1:00:42 – Deepika–Priyanka 'Clash'1:02:47 – Quick Reactions on Stars

Sudhir Chaudhary is one of India’s most prominent television journalists, known for his sharp news analysis, bold opinions and decades-long career in broadcast media. He has been at the forefront of Indian journalism’s evolution and its many controversies.In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Sudhir Chaudhary opens up like never before, on the TRP-driven state of TV news, the pressure anchors face from political and corporate forces and the criticism that comes with being one of the highest-paid figures in Indian media.He speaks candidly about the ‘nano chip’ controversy, fake news allegations, the Naveen Jindal sting case and how every court eventually gave him a clean chit. Sudhir also reflects on his journey, his mistakes, what he’s learned from them and why he joined DD News after working at Zee News and Aaj Tak.*Timestamps*00:00 – Introduction01:20 – Is Sudhir Chaudhary the Highest-Paid Anchor?02:44 – TRP vs Reality in News Channels08:16 – Debates vs Real News Reporting09:46 – Editorial Freedom & Connecting with Viewers16:38 – Evolution of News Anchoring19:03 – Journalism Ethics in War Reporting21:53 – Challenges as a Ground Reporter24:38 – Misinformation During Op Sindoor27:11 – Rs 2000 Notes 'Nano Chip' Controversy30:14 – Uma Khurana TV ‘Sting’ Operation37:05 – Naveen Jindal ‘Extortion’ Case55:07 – Trolls, Labels & Comeback59:42 – Newsroom Politics Before 20141:11:04 – Politics & Professional Boundaries1:17:30 – The Red Tie Selfie with Trump1:21:40 – Organic Reach on Social Media1:23:49 – Career Moves & Running Own Show1:32:45 – Indian Work Culture & Values1:36:20 – YouTube Journalism vs Traditional Media1:41:26 – Deepfake Threats to Journalists1:45:10 – Working in Private Channels vs Public Broadcasting1:50:23 – Sudhir Chaudhary Making a Film?1:53:00 – Hollywood vs Bollywood Storytelling1:58:08 – Staying Real in Media Spotlight2:06:22 – Friendships in Media World

Parikshit Sahni is one of Indian cinema’s most respected veteran actors, known for his memorable performances in Kabhi Kabhie, Tapasya, Lage Raho Munna Bhai, 3 Idiots, and PK. The son of legendary actor Balraj Sahni, he has carried forward a remarkable cinematic legacy with grace and depth.In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Parikshit Sahni takes us through the golden era of Bollywood, sharing stories of working with icons like Raj Kapoor, Dilip Kumar, Amitabh Bachchan, and Rakhee.He opens up about his father’s advice, his early years in Moscow studying film direction, assisting Raj Kapoor on Mera Naam Joker, and how he became an actor. Sahni also talks about the magic of directors like Yash Chopra and Rishikesh Mukherjee, and what made films of the '60s and '70s truly timeless.This episode is a nostalgic journey through the heart of Bollywood’s golden era, told by someone who lived it.00:00 – Introduction00:38 – Working with Hrishikesh Mukherjee02:58 – Rivalries Among Actors in the 60s & 70s04:38 – Being Balraj Sahni’s Son & His Film Journey09:50 – Named by Rabindranath Tagore10:40 – Living with Uncle & Poet Bhisham Sahni13:30 – Studying Film Direction in Russia16:34 – Assisting Raj Kapoor on 'Mera Naam Joker'18:34 – Balraj Sahni’s Acting Secrets & Life22:27 – Becoming an Actor by Mistake25:53 – Yash Chopra’s Working Style27:32 – Balraj Sahni’s Connection with Pakistan30:35 – Working with Yash Chopra34:01 – Working with Amitabh Bachchan36:09 – Acting with Balraj Sahni in Pavitra Papi39:23 – Friendship with Sanjeev Kumar42:38 – Working in the Industry for Six Decades46:04 – Working on 'Gul Gulshan Gulfam'51:10 – Family52:53 – Working with Dev Anand Sahab54:03 – Writing Two Books55:48 – Friends in the Film Industry58:08 – Was Balraj Sahni’s House Grabbed by the Mafia?1:01:35 – Closing Remarks

Saurabh Shukla is one of India’s most talented and loved actors, known for his roles in Satya, Jolly LLB, and Barfi. A National Award winner, he is admired for his natural acting and brilliant comic timing.In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Saurabh Shukla talks about what acting really means, how he perfects his timing in comedy, and how he keeps his characters real and consistent across films.He shares interesting stories about working with greats like Amrish Puri and Shekhar Kapur, his early struggles in the industry, moments of self-doubt, and the happiness of winning a National Award.Saurabh Shukla also speaks about how Bollywood has changed over the years, why South Indian films are winning hearts, and how humour, language, and everyday life experiences help actors connect with their audience.00:00 – Introduction00:36 – Jolly LLB: Maintaining Character Continuity02:29 – National Award: Reaction & Meaning05:04 – Self-Doubt & Low Phase in Life09:03 – Humour as a Defence Mechanism14:28 – Sensitivity & Limits of Humour Today17:28 – Working with Ranbir Kapoor on Barfi!21:55 – Why I Didn’t Like Shakespeare24:14 – Working with Shekhar Kapur on Bandit Queen32:52 – Writing Satya & Making a Cult Film47:08 – Why South Indian Films Connect More49:28 – Working in Nayak & Lessons from Amrish Puri54:50 – What It Really Means to Be an Actor1:01:44 – Watching Content at 2x Speed1:08:09 – The Challenge of “Lived” Experience1:12:54 – Family Background & Early Influences1:15:39 – How Language Has Evolved in Films1:21:01 – Wearing the Director’s Hat1:22:44 – Theatre vs Film vs OTT1:26:15 – Closing

Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani is one of India’s most respected business leaders and real estate developers. Co-founder and Managing Director of the Hiranandani Group, he has helped shape Mumbai’s skyline with landmark projects and continues to influence the debate on housing, infrastructure, and India’s growth.In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Dr. Hiranandani talks about the India story, the impact of Trump’s tariffs, and India’s goal of becoming self-reliant through Atmanirbhar Bharat. He also shares his views on the real estate sector, jobs, and why skill development is key to India’s future.He opens up about his early days, what inspired him to become a builder, his thoughts on industrialists like Adani and Ambani, and why he believes India’s next decade will be full of opportunity.00:00 – Coming Up02:14 – Introduction03:11 – Can India Handle Trump’s Tariffs?10:45 – Do Industrialists Believe in the India Story?14:50 – Millionaires Leaving India18:22 – Real Estate Journey19:22 – Mumbai Real Estate’s Mafia Era27:37 – What’s Stopping India from Growing?29:48 – India’s Development Skewed?31:18 – Mumbai’s Development35:53 – Unemployment in India42:25 – Challenges in the Healthcare Sector50:08 – Inside a Billionaire’s Daily Routine

Kazem Samandari is the Executive Chairperson and Co-Founder of L'Opéra, one of India’s most prominent French bakery operations. Christine Samandari-Hakim, his wife and co-founder, played a key role in developing the bakery’s concept and brand identity. In this edition of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Kazem and Christine Samandari share their experiences as Baha’is in pre-revolutionary Iran, and the challenges their families faced during the Islamic Revolution. They also talk about how their son’s love for French pastries inspired L’Opéra, following a year of preparation. The couple explains why India is the ‘El Dorado’ for startups, innovators, and entrepreneurs, offering ease of doing business and living.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction 01:32 – Story of Christine Samandari 06:32 – Story of Kazem Samandari 08:44 – Iran Before the Islamic Revolution 15:36 – Christine’s Father’s Assassination 17:35 – The Baha'i Faith Community in Iran 21:45 – What Is the Baha'i Faith? 29:22 – Connection with Iran 33:39 – Journey to India 37:54 – Story Behind French Bakery L’Opéra 42:48 – Sourcing Ingredients for L’Opéra 47:29 – Was India Ready for a French Bakery? 54:55 – Expanding Beyond Delhi 57:03 – Was India the Right Choice for L’Opéra? 59:06 – Ease of Doing Business in India

Rani Mukerji is one of Bollywood’s most acclaimed and versatile actors, renowned for her powerful performances in films such as Black, Mardaani, and Hichki. With a career spanning nearly three decades, she has worked with some of the biggest names in the industry and continues to remain a beloved star among audiences. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Rani speaks candidly, on her very first podcast, about her journey in cinema, winning a National Award for the first time, and her long-standing friendship with Shah Rukh Khan. She also shares her views on the recent debate around 8-hour work shifts in the film industry and explains why she prefers to stay away from the media and paparazzi. Beyond her on-screen life, Rani opens up about balancing family and career, and what continues to inspire her as an actor today.00:00 – Introduction01:20 – Winning the National Film Award05:15 – Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway Story07:31 – Challenges Faced by Immigrants09:08 – Preparing for a Character10:26 – Rani & Karan’s Kids Watched the Ceremony11:43 – Wedding Pictures & Privacy15:49 – Actresses and Their Private Lives18:40 – First Screen Test & Mom’s Reaction20:20 – Role in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai21:36 – Backlash over Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna26:50 – Handling Setbacks After Success28:54 – Reinventing Herself32:14 – Creative Process During Hichki36:00 – Pausing Career for Her Daughter38:33 – Durga Puja Celebrations41:26 – Competition With Kajol?45:15 – Bringing Indian Women to the Forefront48:37 – Husband’s Support for Hichki51:29 – Deepika’s 8-Hour Shift Demand54:19 – Films Better Planned Today?55:57 – Who Shah Rukh Khan Gels With Better56:41 – Winning National Award After 30 Years58:06 – Directors Who Bring Out the Best in Her1:04:04 – Will Rani Mukerji Direct a Film?1:05:42 – Upcoming Projects1:07:38 – A Message for All Women

Dr. Ramakanta Panda is a renowned cardiac surgeon and Chairman of the Asian Heart Institute, a leading cardiac care hospital in Mumbai. He has performed over 30,000 successful cardiac surgeries. Awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2010, Dr. Panda has operated on several top Indian leaders, including former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Lalu Prasad Yadav and Tarun Gogoi.In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Dr Panda discusses the rising cases of heart attacks among young people. He addresses whether the COVID-19 vaccine is linked to heart attacks.Dr. Panda also highlights how lifestyle changes are driving the rise of heart disease in India. He emphasises that diet, exercise and daily habits play a crucial role in preventing heart problems. Dr Panda also shares how he stays calm and focused while performing high-risk surgeries.00:00 – Introduction00:46 – Lifestyle Factor Behind Heart Attacks11:29 – COVID Vaccine and Heart Attack Link14:49 – Late-Night Habits & Heart Health21:46 – VIP Patients & High-Risk Surgeries25:39 – Health Insurance & Financial Security30:54 – Sugar & Processed Food36:22 – Heart Risk from Smoking & Alcohol40:41 – Veg Diet vs Non-Veg Diet52:04 – Akshay Kumar Fitness Routine59:53 – Surgery of Dr. Manmohan Singh1:01:56 – Emotional Stress & Heart Attack Awareness1:07:52 – Misconceptions About Heart Health1:13:16 – Heart Attack Symptoms1:17:02 – Self-Medication and AI Tools

Sardar Tarlochan Singh is a former Rajya Sabha member and ex-Chairman of the National Commission for Minorities. He has spent his life fighting for Sikh causes, human rights, and keeping the Punjabi language alive, while promoting Sikhism around the world. At 92, Tarlochan Singh has seen it all, from India’s Partition to the rise of India as a major power in South Asia.In Part 2 of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Tarlochan Singh talks about Rajiv Gandhi’s Cold War with President Giani Zail Singh and the Bofors scandal. He also shares how Operation Blue Star changed India, and speaks on Hindu-Sikh unity, the farmers’ protest, Punjab’s drug crisis, and the role of the Sikh diaspora in shaping politics today.00:00 - Coming Up01:55 - Introduction03:13 - Bofors Scandal Stories17:57 - Sikh Diaspora After Rajiv’s Assassination19:14 - Sikh-Hindu Unity19:56 - Attempts to Break Sikh-Hindu Unity24:06 - BJP & Akali Alliance27:24 - Farmers’ Protest36:42 - Punjab Unemployment Fuels Drug Crisis38:00 - How Vajpayee Valued Punjab & Sikhs42:21 - Dr. Manmohan Singh Beyond Sikh Identity49:01 - Parkash Singh Badal’s Political Legacy and Life54:53 - Partap Singh Kairon and Indira Gandhi59:00 - Role of Sikhs in Modern Delhi1:04:06 - Khushwant Singh’s Contribution to Sikhs1:29:10 - Message to Young Sikhs in India & Abroad

Cyrus Broacha is a comedian, political satirist, podcaster, and author. He is best known for MTV India’s Bakra and his popular satirical show The Week That Wasn’t, which ran on television for over 17 years.In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Cyrus shares behind-the-scenes stories from The Week That Wasn’t and MTV Bakra, along with his experience on Bigg Boss.He also talks about sitcoms and reality shows, the Parsis of Bombay, and opens up about crushes, colleagues, marriage, food, and Mumbai’s lifestyle.00:00 – Introduction00:30 – Bombay Hindi vs. Delhi Hindi05:29 – Animal Love Paradox in India08:57 – Bigg Boss Experience15:16 – The Secret of Lean Celebrities18:21 – BTS of ‘The Week That Wasn't’ & ‘MTV Bakra’24:51 – Gen Z & Tech Distractions28:52 – Indian Politics & Freebies Culture34:46 – Friendship with Kunal Vijayakar42:06 – Arnab Goswami & Pak Cricketers51:03 – Sitcoms & Indian Reality Shows55:40 – Parsis of Bombay1:02:20 – Crushes, Colleagues & Marriage1:10:26 – Food & Mumbai’s Lifestyle1:21:49 – Parenting & Podcasting

Pradyot Bikram Manikya Deb Barma is the titular King of Tripura and the founder of the Tipra Motha Party. His party runs the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council and is also an ally of the BJP at the state level, making him one of the key voices from the Northeast.In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Pradyot talks about infiltration from Bangladesh, his demand for a separate state called Greater Tipraland, and why he feels the Northeast is facing a crisis of identity. He also explains why he wants a “Bihar-style SIR” in Tripura, slams vote bank politics, and raises concerns about the rights of indigenous people. Pradyot looks back at Tripura’s merger with India, the legacy of his royal family, and his own journey from student politics to leading a regional party.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction01:23 – Delay in the Tiprasa Accord06:10 – Demand for SIR in the Northeast13:52 – The Untold Story of Tripura’s Merger after Partition18:28 – Refugee Influx in Tripura32:43 – Local Identity vs. National Identity38:31 – NRC and the Demand for Greater Tipraland46:45 – Tribal Identity & Youth Aspirations in Tripura54:20 – Tripura Royal Family & Entering Politics1:00:24 – Snap Reaction Segment1:24:35 – Movies, Mimicry & Languages1:30:08 – Message to the Youth