The suicide of Bengaluru techie Atul Subhash has brought the spotlight onto gender-biased laws in India. Why did suicide become the only option for Atul Subhash? Who is responsible for his death— the system, the judiciary, or the police? His tragic death has sparked a demand for gender-neutral laws in India.

In an episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Priya Jain, a lawyer and co-founder of Finology Legal, discusses the legal challenges and how some sections of the law are not gender-neutral.

Anil Murty, co-founder of the Save Indian Family Foundation, points out that Atul Subhash is not an isolated case. There are many others who face similar outcomes, highlighting a larger problem in India.

Abhijit Iyer Mitra, senior fellow at the Institute of Peace & Conflict Studies, shares his perspective on how these laws are shaping India’s story.

00:00 - Introduction

02:01 - The Atul Subhash Case

08:52 - Men's Rights and Media Trials

16:31 - What Led Atul to Die by Suicide?

24:46 - Who Is Responsible for Atul's Death?

27:02 - Section 498A and Its Misuse

31:59 - The Indian Judiciary and Judges

34:51 - Marriage as an Institution

39:32 - Prenuptial Agreements Before Marriage

41:57 - Forced Marriages in Bihar

44:50 - UP Officer Booked for Exploiting IIT Kanpur Student

46:16 - The Police's Role in Forced Marriages

50:21 - The Role of Marriage Mediators in Settling Divorce Disputes

54:27 - The Need for Gender-Neutral Laws

58:43 - Kids' Role in Divorce Settlements

01:01:26 - Understanding Perjury in Divorce Cases

01:06:37 - Karnataka's Progressive Judgments

01:08:41 - Legal Pros and Cons of Marriage

01:13:32 - Gay Relationships

01:16:34 - The Role of Save Indian Family Foundation

01:22:46 - Arnesh Kumar v. State of Bihar

01:24:37 - Prenuptial Agreements

There seems to be no end to the Temple-Mosque disputes in India. After Ayodhya, claims have emerged regarding a mosque allegedly being built after the demolition of a temple in U.P.'s Sambhal. What does the Places of Worship Act, 1991, say about such disputes? Did the Ayodhya judgment set a legal precedent? And what about maintaining communal harmony?

In the latest episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, J. Sai Deepak, a Senior Advocate at the Supreme Court of India and the Delhi High Court, delves into several pressing issues. He shares his insights on Tamil Nadu's political landscape, the broader dynamics of Indian politics, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's advocacy for the 'Secular Civil Code'.

Additionally, he sheds light on the challenges faced by the Hindu community in Bangladesh and discusses the implications of these issues on India's socio-political fabric.

00:00 - Introduction

01:56 - Sambhal Mosque Row

06:58 - Conversion of Worship Sites

15:58 - Pending Cases in Mosque-Temple Disputes

19:32 - The Places of Worship Act, 1991

22:37 - Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb

26:11 - Historians and Temple-Mosque Disputes

30:49 - Justice R.F. Nariman on Ayodhya Verdict

33:48 - How Many Temples Were Destroyed

36:51 - Attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh

47:06 - Snap Reaction on Asaduddin Owaisi

49:31 - Snap Reaction on D.Y. Chandrachud

52:26 - Snap Reaction on K. Annamalai

56:43 - Snap Reaction on PM Narendra Modi

01:03:07 - Snap Reaction on Omar Abdullah

01:05:30 - Snap Reaction on Rahul Gandhi

01:10:11 - Snap Reaction on Udayanidhi Stalin

01:11:11 - Thalapathy Vijay in Tamil Nadu's Politics

01:15:21 - Social Media Fan Following

01:16:40 - J. Sai Deepak's 3rd Book

01:18:26 - Senior Advocates and Junior Advocates in Court

01:21:22 - Nepotism in the Judiciary

01:25:06 - PM's Push for 'Secular Civil Code'

Why are mental health disorder cases rising in India? Why are so many young people struggling with depression and anxiety? What are the real causes of ADHD, and how can we break common myths about mental health?

To answer these questions, we are joined by Dr. Achal Bhagat, one of New Delhi’s leading psychiatrists. He is a Senior Consultant Psychiatrist and leads a team of psychologists, social workers, and therapists.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Dr Bhagat talks about India’s mental health crisis, including stress at work, relationship struggles, and rising divorce rates. He also explains why children and teenagers are more affected by depression and how society often misunderstands mental health.

Don’t miss this episode to learn how to manage stress, anxiety, and depression, and how to seek help from professionals.

Audio Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction

00:48 - Psychiatrist vs. Psychologist vs. Therapist

09:07 - Violence Against Women

12:15 - Depression Among Women

14:05 - Mental Health Stigma

17:21 - Mental Health Myths

22:38 - Time to Discuss Mental Health

23:12 - Suicide Cases in Kota

27:00 - Parental and School Pressure

28:44 - How Psychiatrists Handle Suicidal Thoughts

33:42 - Loneliness Among the Ageing Population

40:22 - Social Media Addiction

43:10 - Work-Life Pressure

50:22 - Managing Relationship Pressures

54:12 - Increasing Divorce Rates in India

58:00 - Alcohol and Smoking

01:00:09 - Pollution and Mental Health

01:02:38 - Depression and Anxiety

01:04:15 - Mental Illness: Diagnosis and Treatment

01:08:21 - Genetics and Mental Health Disorders

01:11:22 - Helping Someone in Mental Distress

01:30:10 - Mental Health Terms to Avoid

01:34:00 - Parenting for Boys and Girls

01:37:28 - Relationship Between Patients and Psychiatrists

What does it take to become a supermodel? How difficult is it to reach the top of the modelling industry? What role do diet and body image play in modelling? Why is there a rise in cosmetic surgeries among models and actors? What goes on behind the scenes during a fashion show?

To answer these questions, we're joined by Alicia Kaur, a Mumbai-based model originally from Australia, who has made a name for herself in the fashion industry.

In this ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Alicia talks about the challenges she faced in the modelling world and why discipline is key to success. She also shares her struggles while working in China and discusses the roles of designers, choreographers, and models in fashion events.

Alicia opens up about a viral skit she did with actor Sidharth Malhotra, which led to a lot of criticism. She also speaks about her decision to undergo breast surgery and why some models feel the need to enhance their facial features. Plus, she shares her experience of working with Shah Rukh Khan on an ad campaign.

Don't miss this episode to learn what it takes to be a supermodel.

00:00 - Introduction

00:38 - Modeling: A Childhood Dream

08:08 - Work Experience in China

15:08 - Struggling Due to Passport Theft in Hong Kong

17:52 - Journey to Becoming a Supermodel & Touring India

21:08 - Sidharth Malhotra & Alicia's Viral Video

23:58 - Role of Designers, Choreographers, and Models in Fashion Events

25:55 - What Happens Backstage During Fashion Shows

28:35 - Choosing Veganism

35:01 - Cosmetic Surgery Among Models

39:16 - The Reason for Undergoing Breast Surgery

42:06 - Celebrities Trolled for Botox

45:23 - Facing Acceptance Issues

48:16 - Favorite Designers

50:18 - Drug Issues in the Modeling Industry

51:38 - Is Modeling a Gateway to Bollywood?

52:41 - Working Experience with Shah Rukh Khan

55:53 - First Ad Shoot in India

57:36 - Addressing Skin Color Diversity in Modeling

01:02:58 - Advice for Aspiring Models

01:07:53 - Favorite Indian Food

Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore from 1782 to 1799, is often celebrated in history books as a freedom fighter and the "Tiger of Mysore." He was the son of Hyder Ali, a Muslim military officer who became the king of Mysore after overthrowing the Hindu Wadiyar dynasty. But was Tipu Sultan truly a freedom fighter, or was he an Islamist ruler known for his tyranny?

In his latest book, 'Tipu Sultan: The Saga of Mysore's Interregnum (1760–1799)', historian and author Dr. Vikram Sampath challenges the popular narratives about Tipu Sultan. Drawing on detailed research, Dr. Sampath explains Tipu’s actions against Hindus and Christians, including the destruction of temples, forced conversion to Islam, and what he describes as "religious genocide."

Dr Sampath, known for his two-volume biography of V.D. Savarkar and other notable works, discusses these controversial aspects of Tipu Sultan’s rule in this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash.

He also criticizes political parties for celebrating Tipu Jayanti, arguing that Tipu’s legacy includes the torture and slaughter of thousands of Hindus and Christians and that he should be remembered for these actions, not glorified.

Tune in to this episode to uncover the true history of Tipu Sultan and understand why he remains a figure of admiration in Pakistan and among its politicians.

00:00 - Introduction

02:10 - Why write a book on Tipu Sultan?

06:55 - Fire at the 'Sword of Tipu Sultan' set, 1989

09:50 - How did Vikram Learn Kannada

17:40 - Article on Mysore Dewans

22:21 - How long did the book research take?

29:45 - On Tipu Sultan's father, Hyder Ali

37:55 - How Hyder Ali overthrew the Wadiyars

48:05 - Tipu Sultan’s mother

56:35 - Naraka Chaturdashi Story

01:09:10 - Hyder Ali, a 'womanizer'

01:19:20 - Mass circumcision of 85,000 Kodavas (Coorgis)

01:25:30 - Was Tipu Sultan a freedom fighter?

01:34:10 - The first decade of Tipu's rule

01:45:40 - Shankaracharya's trick to save the Math

01:54:50 - The surrender of Tipu Sultan’s two sons

02:03:28 - The cannons of Tipu Sultan

02:08:20 - The reason behind writing the 984-page book

02:11:30 - Black magic

Sunil Chhetri is widely regarded as one of the greatest football players in India. Playing as a forward for the national team from 2005 to 2024, he became the country's all-time top goal-scorer and most-capped player. Internationally, he stands fourth on the list of all-time goal-scorers, behind legends like Messi, Ronaldo, and Daei.

In Indian club football, Chhetri has been a star, representing teams like Bengaluru FC, Mohun Bagan, and Mumbai City FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) and I-League. Over his two-decade-long career, he has maintained exceptional fitness and performance, even into his late 30s. He retired from international football in June 2024.

In this podcast with Smita Prakash, you'll see a new side of Sunil Chhetri. He talks openly about his struggles, why he chose football, the role his family played in his journey, and the importance of food and fitness in an athlete’s life.

Chhetri also shares his thoughts on handling criticism on social media, his retirement plans, and his close friendship with Indian cricketer Virat Kohli. He even reveals whether he plans to enter politics after retirement.

Don't miss this candid conversation with India's football legend, Sunil Chhetri, like you've never seen before!

00:00 - Introduction

02:06 - Childhood Memories from Delhi

08:04 - Growing Up: School Days in Delhi

11:52 - Why Chhetri Chose Football

15:33 - Getting into Mohun Bagan Club

21:40 - What Athletes Should Eat

26:25 - Chhetri's Love for Football

29:52 - Struggling in Foreign Clubs

36:05 - Good and Bad Days in Sports

37:59 - Experience Playing for Mohun Bagan

40:44 - How Football Fans Behave

45:29 - Handling Fans in Public

47:12 - Role of Money in Football

54:44 - Underprivileged Kids & Their Desire to Succeed in Sports

01:03:43 - Feeling After Scoring Against Pakistan

01:04:09 - Retirement Announcement

01:09:11 - Fans' Reactions During Matches

01:11:22 - Controversial Kick Against Kerala Blasters

01:14:38 - Dealing with Social Media Trolling

01:17:42 - Football Fans vs. Cricket Fans

01:20:40 - Does Chhetri Play Cricket?

01:21:38 - Common Traits Between Virat Kohli & Sunil Chhetri

01:24:17 - Feeling While Playing Against Pakistan

01:27:49 - Igor Stimac’s Astrologer Allegations

01:28:50 - Does Chhetri Believe in Astrology?

01:30:19 - Failures & Leading the Indian Football Team

01:35:11 - How India Can Beat the US & China in Sports

01:40:24 - Never Endorsing Gutka or Sugary Products

01:41:50 - Veg vs. Non-Veg Food in Sports

01:46:05 - Sleep, Food, and Timing

01:50:14 - Chhetri on His Son Becoming a Footballer

01:51:24 - Athletes Chhetri Admired

01:54:26 - School Days

01:57:39 - Peak Period of Career

02:00:37 - Plans After ISL & Joining Politics

02:03:57 - Benefits of Ice Baths

02:05:24 - Impact of Social Media Usage on Youngsters

02:07:07 - What After Ronaldo and Messi?

02:10:03 - Chhetri on Retirement

02:12:14 - Will Chhetri Become a Coach?

02:15:09 - Helping Underprivileged Kids in Sports

02:18:17 - Hard Work vs. Hunger vs. Talent in Sports

02:21:57 - Parents Watching Chhetri's Games

02:23:19 - Sledging in Football

02:27:55 - Role and Support of Family

02:31:56 - Why India Loves Chhetri

What is Brahma Kumaris? Is it a religious cult or a spiritual movement? How did a movement that began in the 1930s in Hyderabad, Sindh (now in Pakistan), grow to have over a million followers and 5000 centres in 135 countries worldwide? What is the purpose of Brahma Kumaris? How do its followers view religion, and why do women hold key administrative positions within the organization?

In this episode of ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, BK Shivani answers these questions. A practitioner and teacher of Rajyoga Meditation since 1996, BK Shivani is a well-known TV personality and the host of the show 'Awakening With Brahma Kumaris', which focuses on mental stress, happiness, and relationships.

She also shares her thoughts on Ram Rajya, Akhand Bharat, and parenting in this insightful conversation.

00:00 - Introduction

01:56 - How Brahma Kumaris Began

10:58 - Ram Rajya & Akhand Bharat

15:18 - The Role of Religion in People’s Lives

21:20 - Why BK Shivani Joined Brahma Kumaris

28:02 - Adopting Celibacy

30:28 - Why Do Brahma Kumaris Wear White Clothes?

35:37 - Rules of Celibacy

40:45 - How to End Violence and Crime

47:17 - Garbh Sanskar Explained

54:22 - Outside vs. Home-Cooked Food

56:46 - Attachment vs. Love

01:03:08 - Can You Always Think Right?

01:09:08 - Why Don’t Brahma Kumaris Eat Outside?

01:14:06 - Is the End of Kalyug Near?

01:16:09 - What Is Forgiveness?

01:23:57 - How Are Atheists Taught Spirituality?

01:29:58 - Do Issues Vary Between the Rich and the Poor?

01:32:15 - Holidays: Before vs. Now

01:38:51 - Can Anyone Change Someone’s Thinking?

01:43:28 - BK Shivani’s Thoughts on Crime and Violence

01:46:35 - Is There Any Role of Destiny in Life?

01:52:50 - Talking to a Loved One at Life’s Final Stage

02:07:38 - Live-In Relationships

02:09:02 - Substance Abuse

02:15:58 - Social Media

02:17:19 - The Joy of Missing Out

02:19:54 - Divorce

02:28:37 - News Debates

02:30:18 - Sex Education

02:34:46 - What Is Love?

02:37:42 - Stress

02:40:43 - Therapy

This special podcast discusses two pressing issues involving India’s neighbours, Bangladesh and Pakistan.

Since Sheikh Hasina's ouster, over 2,000 attacks on Hindus have been reported in Bangladesh. Is this part of a 'religious cleansing' against Hindus? Is Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus’s regime aligning with Islamist forces? Could India face a surge of migrants in the coming months?

Meanwhile, Pakistan’s political chaos shows no signs of slowing down. PTI supporters, led by Imran Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi, marched towards Islamabad, resulting in dozens of deaths and many injuries. What lies ahead for Imran Khan? Will he ever be released from jail?

To answer all these questions, the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash is joined by two experts Tilak Devasher, an author of three acclaimed books on Pakistan and a National Security Advisory Board member. Sushant Sareen, a senior fellow at ORF and a leading analyst on Pakistani affairs.

The podcast also explores how the political and social turmoil in Bangladesh and Pakistan could impact India.

00:00 - Coming Up

00:00 - Introduction

04:25 - Recognition of Bangladesh & Pakistan

06:43 - Attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh

13:36 - Muhammad Yunus and Jamaat

15:38 - Bangladesh Becoming a 'Taliban State'?

20:06 - Will Bangladesh Army Stop Violence Against Hindus?

23:31 - Role of the Deep State in Pakistan & Bangladesh

29:11 - Social Media and Political Mobilization

30:16 - Why Pakistanis Are Using VPNs

34:46 - Pro-Imran Khan Protests

42:10 - Who Is Bushra Bibi?

48:50 - How Crowd Control Works

56:18 - Why Did Imran Khan Marry Bushra Bibi?

1:02:31 - Pakistan Army vs. Imran Khan

1:09:20 - Pakistan Army Losing Its Hold on the Country?

1:13:30 - Saudi Arabia’s Connection to Imran Khan

1:16:18 - What Happens If Imran Khan Comes Out of Jail?

1:19:23 - Why Is Imran Khan Still Popular in Pakistan?

1:25:12 - What’s Next for Imran Khan?

1:28:27 - "Pakistan Is Running Dry"

1:31:30 - The Situation of Hindus in Bangladesh

1:36:30 - India’s Response to Bangladesh

1:41:30 - Pakistan’s Existential Crisis