Not Your Aunty

Join us for an intimate conversation with Lisa Ray as she reminisces about her deep connection with Bombay, navigating through fame in the 90s, and her transition from a cosmopolitan model to a devoted mother. Lisa shares her journeys, the challenges of balancing a career and motherhood, and her unique perspectives on fame, spirituality, and the impact of technology on children. From her modeling days in Bombay to her life as a geriatric mom of twins, Lisa’s story is a mix of emotional highs, personal growth, and heartfelt reflections. 00:00 Welcome to India, Lisa! 00:41 A Global Citizen with a Bombay Heart 01:33 The Magic of Bombay in the 90s 03:59 Challenges of Modern Bombay 05:25 Navigating the Modeling Industry 09:29 The Impact of Big Tech on Kids 14:24 Motherhood and Personal Growth 16:42 Pursuing Passion Projects 33:56 Drama School Adventures 38:17 The Burden of Fame 43:50 A Spiritual Journey Through Cancer 48:08 Motherhood and Its Challenges 55:28 Cultural Identity and Parenting 01:01:58 Venturing into the NFT World 01:07:44 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode, we explore the challenges faced by female athletes, with a focus on Vinesh Phogat's recent retirement and the larger implications for women competing in sports. We discuss weight management struggles, social media criticism, and the broader societal and governmental hurdles these athletes encounter. The conversation also touches on gender eligibility controversies and the mental strength required to perform at the highest levels. Join us as we delve into these complex issues and celebrate the courage of women in sports. 00:00 A Disheartening Morning: Vinesh Phogat's Struggle 01:43 The Human Element in Sports 02:40 Social Media Trolls and Public Perception 03:27 Protests and Sexual Harassment Allegations 05:23 The Mental and Physical Toll on Athletes 13:16 Challenges Faced by Female Athletes 17:05 Suspension of Wrestling Federation of India 19:22 Intersex Athletes in Sports 23:23 Gender and Transition in Sports 25:00 Paris 2024 Olympics Issues 29:12 Indian Athletes' Controversies 32:12 Inspiring Stories of Female Athletes

In this episode, the hosts delve into the alarming depth of corruption within India's IAS system, highlighting the controversial case of Puja Khedkar. They discuss her various fraudulent claims of disabilities to crack the UPSC exam, misuse of public office, and the systemic rot in the bureaucracy. The conversation covers broader issues of corruption among bureaucrats, including notable cases and the impact on public trust. With personal anecdotes and analysis, they call for accountability and systemic change. 00:00 Introduction 00:41 The UPSC Exam Loopholes 02:05 Puja Khedkar's Misuse of Power 03:21 The Deep-Rooted Corruption in IAS 05:02 Entitlement and Corruption Among IAS Officers 10:40 Comparing Bureaucrats and Army Officers 12:48 Honest Bureaucrats: A Rare Breed 16:27 High-Profile Corruption Cases 19:33 The Need for Accountability and Change

In this lively and personal discussion, Kiran and Shunali cover a wide range of topics from parenting styles, setting boundaries, and dealing with sleepovers to having 'the talk' about sex with their children. They share humorous and reflective anecdotes about their experiences and challenges with their children who are either teenagers or have entered adulthood. The conversation also delves into societal attitudes towards parenting, the influence of technology and media on the younger generation, and the cultural shifts in discussing sensitive topics openly. There's a segment on their parents' approaches, the impact of early exposure to adult content, and the importance of maintaining boundaries while fostering open communication. 00:00 A Fresh Start: Kiran's Morning Adventure 01:02 Parenting Dilemmas: To Send or Not to Send? 04:19 The Birds and the Bees: Early Conversations 08:01 Navigating Adolescence: Talks and Taboos 11:49 Innocent Swear Words: Kids and Language 18:23 Watching Movies with Family 19:10 Uncomfortable Intimate Scenes 19:40 Game of Thrones and Teenagers 20:02 Teens and Exposure to Porn 22:17 Social Media and Self-Objectification 28:52 Boundaries with Children 30:56 Therapists and Boundaries 31:59 Parental Control and Independence 33:55 Grandmother's Storage Room

In this episode, we delve into the recent controversy sparked by a misogynistic Newsweek article condemning Taylor Swift as a role model. We explore the double standards women face in society and highlight Taylor's monumental achievements in the music industry, her philanthropic efforts, and her role as a champion of women's rights and independence. From her record-breaking concerts to her fight against gender bias and her personal growth as an artist, we showcase why Taylor Swift is an inspiring figure for young women worldwide. Join us as we celebrate her resilience, talent, and transformative impact on both music and society. 00:00 Misogynistic Criticism of Taylor Swift 00:57 Double Standards in Society 01:16 Taylor Swift's Unmatched Success 02:37 Swiftquake: The Impact of Taylor's Concerts 02:58 The Controversial Opinion Piece 04:39 Taylor Swift's Philanthropy 05:47 Reclaiming Her Music: A Power Move 08:30 Taylor Swift's Political Stance 12:15 The Kanye West Feud 13:54 Taylor Swift's Personal Growth 22:35 The Travis Kelce Relationship 24:54 Standing Up Against Harassment 26:45 Conclusion: Taylor Swift as a Role Model

In this thought-provoking discussion, Kiran and Shunali explore the increasing trend of therapy in India and how it relates to societal changes. They delve into the impact of weather on mental states, the prevalence of therapy among their acquaintances, and share insights from a neuroscientist on neuro biofeedback. The conversation covers the de-stigmatization of minor mental health issues, the commercial aspects of therapy, and concerns about over-reliance on therapeutic sessions. They debate the importance of resilience, threat of over-medication, and the rise of therapy jargon in everyday life. The episode challenges viewers to reconsider the balance between seeking professional help and nurturing self-resilience.

In this episode, our hosts delve into the multifaceted relationship women have with their hair. They share personal anecdotes about their own hair traumas, discuss the significance of hair in various cultures and mythologies, and explore the modern-day obsession with hair, especially in the age of social media. The conversation also touches on hair politics, spiritual symbolism, and the extreme lengths some people go to for their hair. Tune in to hear insights from a therapist and amusing personal stories that highlight just how powerful and influential hair can be in shaping our identities. 00:00 Introduction 00:11 Ballet Exam and Hair Obsession 01:21 Psychological Impact of Hair on Self-Image 01:54 The Longest Relationship: Women and Their Hairstylists 02:36 Childhood Hair Trauma Stories 10:35 Generational Hair Trauma 11:54 Hair Experiments and Disasters 14:42 Cultural and Mythological Significance of Hair 17:46 The Power and Politics of Hair 18:07 Hair Ceremonies and Cultural Significance 18:22 Counterculture and Liberation Through Hair 19:05 Workplace Hair Challenges for Black Women 19:31 Hair and Personal Transformation 20:15 Hair in Black Magic and Superstition 20:31 A Personal Story of Hair and the Supernatural 23:25 Self-Expression Through Hair 28:17 Spiritual and Cultural Symbolism of Hair 32:03 Modern Hair Trends and Social Commentary 34:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts #hair #hairextensions #notyouraunty #podcast #kiranmanral #shunalishroff #bingepods

In this episode, Kiran and Shunali dive into the pervasive world of gossip. They explore why people gossip, the different types of gossip, and its social functions. From personal anecdotes to historical perspectives, this conversation uncovers the reasons behind gossip's enduring presence in human society. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction (03:55) Gossip as a social function? (07:44) Gossip in modern society (08:42) Power play of gossip (13:46) Gossip in medieval times (15:13) Empowerment and Cultural Impact (18:04) What is the difference between gossip and rumor? (21:09) Gossip through social media (22:05) The indian metoo movement (23:06) It plays an important role in offices (25:00)Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, Kiran and Shunali discuss the often-blurred line between self-promotion and over-promotion. From personal anecdotes they share the pressures of promoting one's work in a world saturated with social media. The conversation explores the impact of self-promotion on authenticity, gender differences in self-promotion, and the social and psychological aspects tied to this practice. Tune in to hear their thoughts on finding a balance and the importance of genuine engagement versus the pitfalls of relentless self-promotion. 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage 00:48 Personal Experiences with Self-Promotion 01:32 The Fine Line of Self-Promotion 03:24 Generational and Gender Perspectives 06:00 The Impact of Over-Promotion 09:49 Networking and Double Standards 14:54 The Corporate World and Self-Promotion 21:08 Gratitude and Acknowledgments 21:29 The Irony of Paid Leadership Offers 21:53 The Coffee Table Book Phenomenon 23:46 The Psychology Behind Self-Promotion 25:18 Social Media and the Need for Validation 28:16 The Exhaustion of Moderating Events 30:42 The Vulgarity of Relentless Self-Promotion 35:38 The Etiquette of Promoting Others 36:27 The Formula for Balanced Self-Promotion 38:40 The Vicious Cycle of Self-Promotion 38:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Join Kiran Manral and Shunali Shroff in this episode as they welcome Udit Bhambri, an art aficionado with a profound understanding of popular culture and global trends. With a background in advertising and digital media, Udit dives into his journey as an art curator since the age of eight. He shares personal anecdotes about meeting legendary artists, debunks the pretentiousness around art collection, and discusses the intersection of fashion and art. From discussions on iconic figures like MF Hussain to modern pop culture phenomena such as Urfi Javed, Udit provides a unique perspective on how marketing, societal trends, and personal passion shape the world of art and culture today. Tune in for an enlightening conversation blending art, fashion, and cultural commentary. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:41 Udit's Passion for Art and Early Influences 03:05 The Quirky World of MF Hussain 06:14 Art as an Investment and the Birkin Bag Debate 12:28 The Pretentiousness in Art Circles 15:43 The Legacy of Indian Artists 19:29 Popular Culture and Social Media Influence 23:17 Urfi's Unique Fashion Journey 23:34 Celebrity Influence and Authenticity 24:06 The Role of Designers in Shaping Public Image 26:00 Art and Commercialization 29:07 The Glamour and Reality of Art Parties 31:44 The Struggles and Realities of Artists 39:09 India's GlobalFashion Influence 46:41 The Impact of Social Media on Fame

Indian talent is getting serious recognition on global platforms like Cannes. Our music, movies and other art forms have seen serious appreciation. But this year, there was also the curious case of a India influencers that landed up on the red carpet. Why were they there? To draw attention? The ladies investigate...

A book they read and a quiz they took led our hosts #ShunaliShroff and #KiranManral down a rabbit hole... and now, they want to know if you are a narcissist too. They know about themselves, but are you? Find out now! Youtube link- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1WMRFB_UqSg

In the latest episode of #NotYourAunty, we go into the unique attire and fashion choices associated with the Laapata Ladies. The discussion also touches upon the Met Gala, celebrating design creativity, and challenges societal norms for women in Urban and Rural India. It highlights women empowerment in rural India, emphasizing their financial independence and capabilities. Furthermore, the video explores controlling behavior in relationships, societal expectations, and the need for diverse body representation in media. The discussion extends to challenging beauty standards and typecasting in the film industry, citing concerns about actresses' future careers. Additionally, there's an appreciation for Amrapali's performance and a thoughtful analysis of Mamta's current performances. Lastly, it shares a personal journey of embracing body positivity and the importance of fitness without conforming to certain ideals. #movies #popculture 00:08 Discussions on women's fashion and attire 02:41 Met Gala celebrates design creativity 08:14 Challenging societal norms for women in Urban India 10:4 Empowerment of women in rural India 15:54 Grandmother-in-law's special gesture of cooking Sabudana Khichdi for speaker 17:57 Controlling others for survival in a limiting ecosystem is not ideal. 23:08 Challenging beauty standards and typecasting in the film industry. 25:14 Discussion on actresses' performances and impact of being in the limelight 29:46 Embracing body positivity and the journey of losing weight

Kiran Manral and Shunali Khullar Shroff are off exploring the intriguing and controversial world of India's godmen, who impact the lives of millions.  They dive into stories of famous godmen and their unprecedented influence, covering various aspects from the establishment of their own countries to accusations of criminal activities. The discussion also touches on the psychology behind people's allegiance to these figures, the difference between genuine spiritual leaders and exploitative godmen, and the complex relationship between faith, desperation, and belief in India.  Tell us your thoughts on what you think of India’s various godmen 00:00 Welcome to the World of Influencers and Godmen 00:41 Diving Deep into the Controversial Lives of Godmen 01:31 The Fascinating Case of Swami Nithyananda 03:11 Exploring the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Spiritual Leaders 05:51 The Playbook of Emotional Manipulation 08:06 Celebrity Gurus and the Illusion of Spiritual Authority 13:15 The Complex World of Spiritual Organizations 15:02 Personal Stories and Reflections on Spiritual Journeys 20:05 The Dangers of Challenging Superstitions 21:07 The Jay Shetty Controversy and Social Influence 22:55 The Phenomenon of Tony Robbins and Personal Development Gurus 23:58 The Curious Case of Vikram Yogi and Hot Yoga 25:16 The Ingenious Conman Turned Godman 28:58 Exploring the Power of Belief and Manifestation 32:07 The Dark Side of Cults and Doomsday Predictions 32:40 The Real and the Supernatural: A Night at Maheshwar 35:47 The Positive Influence of Genuine Yogis and Gurus

On this week’s episode, Shunali Shroff and Kiran Manral are joined by the witty and talented Anuvab Pal, a celebrated polymath described by The New York Times as 'India's most intelligent comedian.'  Pal vividly shares anecdotes from his life, covering the peculiarities of Indian weddings, the peculiar names of upcoming buildings in Bandra where he resides, and his observations on contemporary Indian life. He dives into his diverse career spanning acting, screenwriting, podcasting, and especially stand-up comedy. Anuvab discusses the inspirations behind his comedy, the intricacies of performing across different audiences worldwide, and his writing routine that includes staying updated with current affairs.  The trio also explore broader themes like humour's role in society, gender dynamics in comedy, and the influence of social media on creatives. It concludes with Anuvab providing insights into his content consumption habits and his advice for maintaining productivity in the digital age. Catch the full episode now. 00:00 Exploring Bandra's Unique Building Names 00:23 Cultural Observations and Wedding Vibes 00:49 Introducing Anuvab Pal: India's Multifaceted Comedian 02:06 Tiger Tales from Calcutta Zoo 05:25 The Art of Comedy: Anuvab's Journey and Insights 11:37 From Wall Street to Stand-Up: Anuvab's Unexpected Career Shift 19:19 The Evolution of Indian Weddings: A Comedic Perspective 21:25 Wedding Mishaps and Cultural Differences 21:49 The Perils of Celebratory Gunfire at Indian Weddings 22:43 Comparing Punjabi and Bengali Wedding Vibes 23:27 The Influence of Language and Audience in Comedy 24:49 Navigating Comedy Across Cultures 26:21 The Quirks of Naming Trends and Building Names 28:19 Exploring Influencer Culture and Its Impact 30:23 Comedy Inspirations and Mentoring Moments 33:00 Understanding Humor, Power, and Gender Dynamics 37:28 Creative Process and the Challenge of Distraction 40:29 Staying Informed: A Comedian's Morning Routine

When three old friends - who have seen each other at their least glamourous - catch up, it's a lot of fun, banter and uncensored chat! Kiran Manral and Shunali Shroff sit down with Priyanka Chaturvedi, member of the Rajya Sabha, detailing her journey from a concerned citizen in Mumbai to a notable figure in Indian politics. They explore her catalyst for entering politics following the 26/11 terror attacks, her navigation through the challenges of balancing family life with a political career, and her experiences and struggles as a woman in the political sphere. They also dive into her adjustment to life in Delhi, the misconceptions about politicians, and the critical need for women's representation and mentorship in politics. Chaturvedi candidly discusses the scrutiny and trolling on social media, maintaining privacy, adherence to protocols as a public figure, and reflects on the impact of constant political news on society. Additionally, she reveals a lighter side by contemplating political comedy, underscoring her resilience, awareness, and optimistic outlook towards enhancing women's participation in politics. This is not an episode you want to miss! 00:00 Welcome! 01:17 The Unexpected Journey into Politics 01:47 Early Activism and the Shift Towards Political Engagement 03:31 From Recruitment to Politics: A Personal and Professional Transition 06:29 The Role of Social Media in Political Ascent 07:16 Challenges and Triumphs as a Woman in Politics 15:43 Balancing Motherhood and Political Ambitions 27:55 The Impact of Feminism and Women's Rights on Personal and Professional Life 34:48 Navigating Personal Choices and Legal Rights 35:09 Progressive Laws and Gender Equality in India 35:48 Debating Divorce Laws and Women's Rights 38:26 Empowerment and Politics: A Woman's Perspective 39:27 The Challenges and Triumphs of Women in Politics 50:43 Personal Stories and the Impact of Pets 54:19 Transitioning from Mumbai to Delhi: A Politician's Tale 01:02:44 The Perks and Pressures of Political Life 01:08:30 Finding Sanity in the Insanity of Politics

How important is weight loss? Important enough to risk life? It would seem so! After the initial hype, reports now say #Ozempic isn't the real wonder drug. And there's more to lose than gain. #ShunaliShroff and #KIranManral discuss. Do share your thoughts and ideas. #weightloss #drugs #health #injection #diabetes

In this heartwarming video, Kiran and Shunali share a delightful conversation about the stark differences between growing up in India during the 80s and 90s and today. Through amusing anecdotes and vivid memories, the discussion covers various aspects including the rarity of telephone connections, the charm of old TV shows like Chitrahaar and Mahabharat, birthday celebrations, and the simple joys of childhood. The conversation also delves into the evolution of consumer habits, parental supervision, and societal changes, reminding viewers of a time when life was simpler and technology less pervasive. Instagram : bingepods Spotify : https://open.spotify.com/show/285R1BUDeJDoMeXoXh2Ve2?si=68ec340a603f4f20 X : bingepods Website : https://bingepods.com/podcast/not-your-aunty

In this insightful episode, we delve into the world of artificial intelligence with AI educator Supriya Bhuwalka. We discuss Scarlett Johansson's voice cloning allegations against ChatGPT's founder, Sam Altman, and explore the broader ethical concerns surrounding AI. Supriya shares her journey into AI, emphasizing the importance of AI literacy, particularly for children and women. The discussion covers AI's everyday applications, biases, privacy concerns, and the environmental impact of AI technologies. We also touch on practical uses of AI, such as meal planning and content creation, and address the fears about AI's potential to replace human jobs. 00:00 Introduction to AI and Controversy 00:41 Meet Supriya Bhuvalika: AI Educator 01:15 Understanding AI: Personal Journey 02:41 AI in Everyday Life 04:08 Generative AI and Its Implications 06:45 AI's Hallucinations and Bias 07:27 Ethics and Privacy Concerns 12:40 Empowering Women with AI 19:04 AI in Creative Professions 23:05 AI Literacy and Responsible Use 32:06 AI Natives: The Next Generation 32:36 The Right to Opt Out of AI 33:37 Ensuring Ethical AI 34:47 Bridging the Digital Divide 37:06 AI's Impact on Jobs 38:26 Privacy Concerns with AI 46:23 The Role of AI in Relationships 53:42 Empowering Women with AI 56:50 Environmental Impact of AI

Indians have a newfound love for luxury. And they're not afraid to flaunt it. As we grow to become the country with the 5th largest GDP globally, are Indians spending too much on luxury? What does it mean? Have we forgotten our roots? Shunali Khullar Shroff and Kiran Manral investigate. And hypothesise! Don't miss this luxurious episode of #NotYourAunty and remember to like, share and subscribe! You can also watch this episode on YouTube.