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

Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud served as the 50th Chief Justice of India from November 9, 2022, to November 10, 2024. During his tenure, he was a part of several landmark judgments, including the Ayodhya verdict, the decriminalization of Section 377, entry of women into the Sabarimala temple, the fundamental right to privacy, and the constitutionality of the Electoral Bonds Scheme, among others.

He is widely respected for making the judiciary more tech-savvy and accessible. Under his leadership, the court embraced technological advancements such as live broadcasting of hearings, digitalization of Supreme Court and High Court records, and AI for transcribing judicial proceedings.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, the former Chief Justice shares his views on several key issues. He discusses the collegium system, the Ayodhya Ram Temple verdict, and the impact of online trolling on judges' mental well-being. He highlights the heavy scrutiny judges face in the age of social media, where every word and decision is closely examined.

Justice Chandrachud also addresses the opposition's claim that the judiciary is under pressure. He emphasizes that one does not need to be an atheist to deliver unbiased and fair judgments and speaks about practising faith while upholding the law.

The conversation also touches on his retirement, his choice to follow a vegan lifestyle, his family, and his thoughts on whether he might enter politics in the future.

00:00 - Coming Up

00:00 - Introduction

01:38 - Retirement Plans

04:16 - On Teaching Law

06:24 - Delhi Air Pollution

12:20 - Delhi Govt vs L-G Tussle

16:42 - On his legacy

18:35 - Why He Chose to Become a Judge

23:04 - Trolling of Judges

25:54 - SC Handbook on Gender Stereotypes

29:21 - Media Scrutiny

31:54 - Who Authored the Ayodhya Verdict

36:33 - Liberal vs Conservative Judge Labels

38:17 - When the Ex-CJI Prayed for a Solution

44:17 - Sambhal Mosque Row

45:51 - Ganpati Puja with PM Modi

48:37 - Is the Indian Judiciary Under Pressure?

56:20 - Article 370 Judgment

57:24 - Overturning His Father’s Judgment

58:37 - Why He Got into the Legal Profession

01:02:24 - Nepotism in the Indian Judicial System

01:06:04 - The Collegium System

01:09:21 - Pendency of Court Cases in India

01:18:10 - Advocates’ Affordability

01:27:24 - Decriminalization of Homosexuality

01:32:24 - Roe v. Wade Judgment

01:34:16 - Disability-Friendly Courts

01:39:00 - Choosing a Vegan Lifestyle

01:44:40 - Judges Entering Politics

01:49:58 - Supreme Court Prison Report

01:53:34 - Privacy Issues for Judges in the Digital Era

01:56:13 - Live Telecast of Hearings

02:04:30 - Caste Element in Judgments

02:08:04 - International Disputes

02:12:19 - How DY Chandrachud Relaxes

02:17:57 - Hindi vs English- language used in courts

02:23:09 - Interaction with PM, CM, and President

A post on Twitter claiming that foreigners are 'avoiding' Goa due to 'bad services and treatment' has put the state government under scrutiny. Many blame Goa’s 'Taxi Mafia,' which charges high fares due to the lack of private app-based cab services. Some criticize the dirty beaches and the attitude of overcharging both domestic and foreign tourists. Many also argue that Goa is overpriced, and tourists can visit Thailand, Vietnam, or Sri Lanka on the same budget, where they offer a better and more pleasant stay.

Is this the reality, or is there more to the story? In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, the Goa Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte addresses all queries about tourism, including whether foreigners are abandoning Goa. He also discusses issues like drug trafficking, rave parties, and the casino culture in Goa.

00:00 - Introduction

01:41 - Goa Tourism in Trouble?

08:04 - Agenda Against Goa Tourism?

12:30 - 'Taxi Mafia' in Goa

19:22 - Commuters' Concerns in Goa

22:40 - Goa's Filthy Beaches

26:11 - Stray Dogs and Cattle on Beaches

28:24 - Fewer ATMs in Goa

30:45 - Power Cuts in Goa

32:44 - Goa's Road Infrastructure

35:20 - Is Goa an Expensive Tourist Destination?

37:25 - Chikhal Kalo Festival

42:20 - IFFI 2024

47:05 - Drug Trafficking in Goa

50:17 - Goan Culture

54:58 - Diversifying Goa's Economy

59:40 - Casinos in Goa

1:03:02 - Mopa vs. Dabolim Airport

Manipur is on the edge, with no end in sight to the Kuki-Meitei divide. AFSPA has been imposed in six districts, and additional forces have been deployed in the state after 11suspected militants were killed in an encounter with the CRPF.

When will peace return to Manipur? Is the Centre delaying taking the strictest action against radical groups? What's the solution?

In the latest episode of the ANI podcast, Lt Gen D S Hooda (Retd) answers all these questions. Having served for 40 years, he held multiple posts, including Army Commander of the Northern Command. He was the Army Commander during the Chumar incident along the LAC in 2014 and during the launch of the surgical strikes in September 2016. He retired in November 2016.

In this episode he also talks about the India-China border truce and whether Beijing can be trusted. He explains in detail what is happening in Jammu and Kashmir and why there is a rise in terror attacks there.

More on the surgical strikes against Pakistan in 2016, reforms in the Army, and expenditure on the armed forces.

00:00 - Introduction

01:22 - Manipur Crisis Explained

04:32 - Meiteis-Kukis Ethnic Divide

09:52 - Assam Rifles Row in Manipur

10:52 - Armed Groups in Manipur

13:29 - How to Restore Peace in Manipur

14:43 - Manipur Crisis: A National Security Matter

16:60 (17:00) - Why No Action Against Violence in Manipur

18:03 - India-China Border Truce

20:12 - Can China Be Trusted?

21:52 - Why China 'Dislikes' India's Rise

26:40 - Buffer Zones at LAC

28:12 - Chumar Standoff in 2014

38:12 - When the PLA Left Its Soldier in India

40:52 - Facilities for Soldiers at LAC

45:22 - Attacks in Jammu & Kashmir

55:37 - Local Support for Terrorists in J&K

1:00:37 - Does India Need More Army Personnel?

1:02:19 - Expenditure on Armed Forces

1:09:08 - Armed Forces 'Reluctant' Towards Tech Reforms?

1:14:10 - Overseeing Surgical Strikes Against Pak in 2016

1:19:17 - Why Balakot Was Picked to Strike Pak

1:22:52 - Why No Strikes Against Pakistan After 26/11 Attack

1:26:38 - Heading Congress Panel on National Security Strategy

1:31:46 - Agniveer Scheme

1:35:52 - Retired Service Members Joining Politics

1:38:12 - Uber-IAF Deal Repercussions

1:46:14 - Personal Data at Risk

A few major tech companies are dominating the digital world and have significant influence in politics as well. Big Tech companies control many aspects of our lives, including markets, businesses, and public services. Is it a good idea to allow a few tech giants to monopolize our data?

Where does China stand in the tech race against the USA? Where does India stand in the global tech race, and what are its digital vulnerabilities? And what about modern warfare? How are drones changing the course of war and transforming how battles are fought? what is data privacy—and why is it important?

To answer these questions, the ANI podcast with Smita Prakash features Lt. Col. Pavithran Rajan, a former intelligence officer, academic, and tech entrepreneur.

He explains how technology is reshaping the battlefield, allowing countries to win wars without even entering the battlefield. He also discusses the role of artificial intelligence in modern warfare and emphasizes the need for India to protect its digital interests.

This is a must-watch podcast for anyone who thinks there’s nothing to hide and doesn’t understand why privacy matters for both individuals and businesses.

00:00 - Introduction

01:16 - Pager Attack in Lebanon

10:24 - China’s Supply Chain Strategy

15:36 - OSI Layers of Encryption

25:58 - Five Eyes' Response to Intel Threats

28:54 - Digital Policies of China & India

35:28 - Data Privacy in India

41:02 - Data Breaches in the USA

42:59 - India Under Surveillance

47:41 - Semiconductor Industry in India

51:19 - China–India Relations

56:16 - U.S. Dollar and SWIFT

59:21 - Why SWIFT Remains Indispensable

1:10:36 - Use of Cyber Technology in Wars

1:13:54 - The Rise of AI Apps

1:15:45 - India’s Position in the Cyber Power Ranking

1:24:36 - Quantum Cryptography

1:28:21 - Snowden Revelations

1:31:49 - Is Your Phone Listening to You?

1:44:48 - Hamas Attack on Israel

1:52:00 - What Should India Do Amid Global Wars?

Social media has greatly transformed the skincare industry. People are constantly searching for the best sunscreen, ways to get rid of acne and pimples, and tips for flawless skin. This obsession with skincare is at an all-time high, especially among the youth.

In the latest episode of ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Delhi-NCR's top dermatologist, Dr. Ankur Sarin, joins to clear up common myths about skincare products and explain the difference between European and Indian beauty products.

Dr Sarin shares a simple three-step routine for healthy skin and discusses the effectiveness of traditional home remedies. He also highlights why teenagers might be experiencing hair loss, pointing to stress, weight issues, and environmental factors as common causes.

Watch this episode to learn more about skincare, hair care, and ways to manage hair loss and baldness.

00:00 – Introduction

01:00 – Most Asked Questions to Dermatologists

02:55 – Male Pattern Baldness

04:50 – Pigmentation

07:50 – When to Use Sunscreen

12:00 – Demand for Fair Skin

13:54 – How to Get Rid of Acne & Pimples

19:20 – What’s Best for Your Skin

21:40 – European vs. Indian Products

25:50 – How to Take Care of Your Skin & Body

30:54 – Male and Female Pattern Baldness Treatment

35:30 – Chemotherapy and Hair Loss

37:55 – 'Ghar Ke Nuskhe' for Skin & Hair Oiling

39:57 – True & False Segment

45:35 – This & That Segment

49:59 – Impact of Social Media on Choosing Skin Care