Beyond Borders Podcast

In this episode of Beyond Borders Podcast, our host Aakriti Dhawan is joined by Debarati Guha, Director of Programs for Asia at DW (Deutsche Welle). Together, they discuss issues that deeply affect women in everyday life, often ignored, as well as the fairness of the media in 2026.

From being gifted a sewing machine instead of a bicycle as a young girl to constantly having to fight to make a place for herself in professional spaces, Guha reflects on the subtle ways patriarchy continues to shape women’s lives even today. The conversation also touches on workplace inequality, wo...

In this episode of the Beyond Borders Podcast, our host Aakriti Dhawan is in conversation with Surya Kumar Bose, the grandnephew of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. Together, they dive into themes of politics, pre-independence India, the chapters of Indian history that most of us were simply never told and the present Indo-German connection that ties it all together

“Can you ever truly belong to two worlds, or are you forever caught in the friction between them?" From the streets of Berlin to the heart of the Indian freedom struggle, Surya Kumar Bose navigates a dual identity that ch...

Women's Day Special: Raga D'silva shares her journey of coming out in her late 40s, navigating stigma, resilience, and ultimately embracing her truth. From surviving trauma and discrimination to building platforms like Speaking Minds and Older Queer Voices, Raga's story is one of courage, feminism, and advocacy. LETS CELEBRATE TOGETHER

This episode discusses themes including abuse, identity, violence, and personal transformation. Some listeners may find parts of this conversation emotionally sensitive.

00:00 – Introduction

01:15 – Coming out at 49: the first public declaration

04:30 – Labels: lesbian, bisexual, or simply authentic

07:20 – Early struggles, family trauma, and stig...

Beyond Borders Podcast X Birmingham City University,

Aakriti Dhawan sits down with an award-winning filmmaker and Senior Lecturer at BCU, Meera Darji for a powerful conversation on the lived realities of India’s trans community — the search for belonging, the gaps in public understanding of gender, and the impact of viewing Indian trans identities through a Western/UK lens.

The discussion explores how conversations around gender in India are often shaped either by silence or by imported frameworks that don’t always reflect local histories and cultural contexts. From identity and visibility to policy, media narrat...

In this episode of Beyond Borders Podcast X The Wire, Aakriti Dhawan speaks with the Palestinian Ambassador to India, Abdullah Abu Shawesh, on the humanitarian devastation in Gaza, the politics of “ceasefire,” and the role of international actors. The Ambassador challenges the language used around the conflict, shares personal accounts from his family in Gaza, and outlines the scale of destruction — with reconstruction estimated at $57 billion.

The conversation also examines India’s position on the two-state solution, its diplomatic leverage with Israel, divisions within Palestinian politics, and whether meaningful peace is still possible. Referencing international law, UN Resoluti...

In this powerful episode of Beyond Borders Podcast, Aakriti Dhawan sits down with Anjali Gopalan — founder of the NAZ Foundation and one of India’s most prominent human rights activists, and All creatures great and small — for an unfiltered conversation on LGBTQ+ rights, HIV stigma, animal welfare, and the state of citizenship in India. From the fight to decriminalize Section 377 to the ongoing denial of marriage and inheritance rights, Anjali explains why decriminalisation was only the beginning — not the victory. She challenges the idea that LGBTQ+ rights are a “Western ideology,” calls HIV a “virus of blame,” and breaks down persistent...

In this episode, we dive into the extraordinary journey of Reetika Hooda, an Indian Olympian who turned struggle into strength and dreams into global recognition. She speaks about competing at the World Championships and making history as the first Indian woman wrestler to qualify in the heavyweight category for the Paris Olympics 2024. She also opens up about the ongoing doping allegations, the pressure of being prematurely labelled a failure, and the intense scrutiny created by sections of the Indian media and fellow sportspersons. Watch now. 00:00 intro 1:20 journey to becoming a wrestler 15:00 Advice for anyone wanting to go beyond borders ✨ Ro...

This episode is not about pity. It’s about listening. In this conversation, Roopa shares her journey as an acid attack survivor — the pain, the fear, and the courage it takes to live every day in a society that often looks away. Roopa is an Indian acid attack survivor from Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, who was attacked at the age of 15. The incident left her with severe facial injuries and long-term emotional trauma. Despite immense challenges, she chose to rebuild her life with courage and determination. Today, she works at Sheroes Hangout Café, a café run by acid attack survivors. Throug...

What does it mean to be a minority in India today? Is religion becoming the core of identity—for Hindus and Muslims? And why are safe spaces for women and marginalized communities more important than ever? In this episode of Beyond Borders, Aakriti Dhawan sits down with Sabah Khan—feminist activist, founder of Guftagoo, and co-founder of the NGO Parcham. From creating safe spaces for women to fighting majoritarian hate, Saba shares her front-line perspective on rising polarization, ghettoisation, and the shrinking idea of a secular India. We talk about: – Why Guftagoo was created exclusively for women – How Parcham uses foo...

In Episode 25 of our Beyond Border Podcast, we’ve with us Filmfare Award-winning Scriptwriter Mayukh Ghosh. In our conversation, he opens up about his remarkable journey into the world of writing, reflecting on the fateful twists that led him to the industry. Mayuk also shares his experiences within the Hindi Film industry, working with acclaimed artists like Nawazuddin and Sudhir Mishra, and offers his candid views on pressing topics like the rise of women-centric stories, the shifting landscape, and the challenging dynamics of contemporary Bollywood.

Catch us for a fun and deep-insightful conversation with our esteemed guest!

In this deep-dive conversation, Aakriti sits down with Mona Irani, a pioneering casting director, producer, and one of the first women to shape modern casting in the Hindi film industry. With over 35 years of experience, Mona opens up about her unlikely journey from training as a pilot to becoming one of Bollywood’s most respected creative forces. This episode is packed with real stories, insider knowledge, and clear-eyed reflections on how Bollywood has changed — and how it hasn’t. If you’ve ever wondered how actors are chosen, what producers really do, why certain stories fail, or what it actually...

Beyond Borders Podcast × TheMooknayak BJP ex-MP and PFA founder Maneka Gandhi explains the real impact of the Supreme Court's interim verdict on the removal of street dogs. The dogs play a crucial role in India’s safety and social fabric. She shares how police training links poisoned or missing dogs to a rise in crime, the original meaning of the word pariah, and why branding animals as a “menace” is factually wrong and socially dangerous. 00:00 – Introduction and Balancing Roles 02:10 – Critique of the Supreme Court Verdict (Illiteracy & Relocation) 04:40 – Inability to Implement the Verdict & Judicial Arrogance 07:15 – Lack of Funding for ABC (Animal Birth Co...

Today, in our Episode 22, we have with us, very talented & creative Art Director, Production designer, and (soon to be) producer Shiuli Thukral. Let's uncover with her some secrets of Bollywood, the reality of Nepotism, and the challenges of surviving and succeeding in the film industry.

Disclaimer: This content is created for entertainment and conversational purposes only. We do not intend to hurt, offend, or target any individual or group. All views expressed are respectful and considerate.

In today’s Beyond Border Podcast, Episode 21, we have renowned actor, producer, director – the one and only Rahul Vohra. Besides being a versatile and conscientious actor, he is a profound human. In our podcast, we have explored his journey as a theatre artist, an actor, producer and director, his experience working with superstars like Shahrukh and Alia, and the 4-time Oscar-winning team. This episode is especially inspiring for those who want to gain a deep understanding of the world of art, cinema, and connecting with audiences. Disclaimer: It's for entertainment purposes only.

Unlock the Secrets Behind Celebrity Fitness & Indian Football with Karan Sawhney! In this episode, we dive into an inspiring conversation revealing Karan’s journey from a pro footballer to a top celebrity fitness coach. Discover insights into Indian football’s challenges, myths around fitness and diet, and how fitness culture is evolving in India post-Covid. Plus, learn practical tips for mental well-being, prenatal fitness, and training like the stars. Karan Sawhney is a former professional footballer and, former player of Kerala Blasters and transitioned full-time into fitness coaching.

He trains Bollywood celebrities like @aliabhatt and Arjun Rampal, blen...

-- What does it really take to be a sports commentator in India — especially during the Asia Cup 2025?

In this episode of Beyond Borders Podcast, we sit with ⁨@ThukralTales⁩ and go behind the mic with insights into what it means to call one of the biggest cricket tournaments in the world. From high-pressure moments to unseen preparation, we unpack the discipline, storytelling, and chaos that define Indian sports commentary today. 🏏

💬 Hear how commentators handle live pressure, connect with millions of fans, and bring every over to life — all while staying composed when the stake...

When the Taliban returned to power in 2021, the world watched in shock - What has life really been like since? In this episode, we talk to Kanika Gupta, a senior journalist reporting on Afganistan, India, Srilanka, Lebanon, amongst others, about Taliban beyond the headlines: the silence, the fear, and the fading idea of freedom. From restricted voices to vanishing media, we explore what truth looks like in a country where speaking up can cost you everything. She shares firsthand insights into the stories that never make it out, the challenges of reporting under Taliban rule, and what freedom means...

What happens when you follow love across continents, from West to East? German national Saskia Groneberg Chitrak shares her unfiltered experience of migrating to India two decades ago. Saskia’s time in India has been a complex tapestry, marked by political clashes, navigating stark social and cultural differences, and, critically, finding immense joy. In this episode, we dive deep into the reality of reverse migration. Find out what it's truly like to build a life in the East and why this cross-continental journey is often overlooked or not celebrated in the same way as migration to the West.

What happens when Indian classical dance meets Western percussion? In this episode of Beyond Borders, we sit down with Shivani Karmarkar Schürfeld (Kathak artist) and Tillmann Schürfeld (drummer & percussionist) to explore how love, culture, and music fuse across continents. From performing at the Beethoven Festival to blending taals with drumbeats, this Indo-German couple shares their journey of creating harmony between two worlds. We dive into the rise and fall of Indian classical music, the challenges of cross-cultural collaboration, and how personal struggles—including injury and pandemic hardships—shaped their art and relationship. 💡 Whether you’re a music lover, a da...

In this powerful episode of Beyond Borders Podcast, journalist Aakriti Dhawan sits down with Saira Shah Halim — activist, educator, and author of Comrades and Comeback — to unpack the turbulent journey of the Left in Indian politics. From the rise of the Right to questions of democracy, dissent, and ideology, this episode dives into the political battle shaping India’s future. 🔥 00:00 Intro 1:40 Increase vote share in the By-elections of Kolkata 2022 3:00 Family and Naseeruddin Shah 5:00 Women representation in Lok Sabha 6:00 Vote Chori, Congress and Rahul Gandhi 6:30 Delhi Stray dogs as a cover 8:00 Kangana Ranaut and Vir Das 12:00 Kolkata Rape & Murder Case 2024 13:00 CPI M's r...

On this episode of Beyond Borders Podcast, Aakriti Dhawan is joined by Sunanda Rao Erdem—opera singer, commentator, ex-journalist, and entrepreneur—who has built her career and life between India and Germany. From training as an opera singer in Germany to consulting with embassies, institutions, and cultural bodies, Sunanda’s journey reflects the power of cross-border dialogue and cultural diplomacy. 00:00 intro 1:30 Chance card and it’s suspicious 6:00 chance card + German language 7:00 misinformation before you go to Germany 10:37 influencer culture + social media tandoms 14:45 The rise of Indian students in Germany 18:14 History to Future Indo-German relations 20:25 How to be better informed before y...

Ever wondered how Indian comedians like Zakir Khan, Rahul Dua, and Manhar Seth made their way to Germany’s live stages? We uncover the inspiration behind starting NRW Eventss, and the gaps in Europe’s entertainment market that led to a focus on Indian comedians and entertainers in cities like Cologne and Frankfurt. —This episode offers a candid look at the hustle behind the laughter. We also talk about the realities of event management—what it means to face losses, how venues shape strategy, and the unexpected backstage stories that never make it to the spotlight. Tune in for a conver...

What does it take to maintain a deep friendship between an Indian and a Pakistani — especially in today’s political climate?

In this episode, Aisha and Roma share the story of their 15-year-long friendship that began across borders and continues in Germany. They reflect on:

How they met and built trust despite stereotypes

Dealing with online trolls and nationalistic hate

Finding common ground in culture, humour, and shared experiences

What being South Asian abroad has taught them about identity

Why their friendship matters more than ever today

In this episode, Dheeraj Tyagi and Aju John open up about the hidden struggles faced by South Asian students—from financial hardship and visa uncertainty to exploitation, isolation, and broken promises. 🇮🇳🇩🇪

About Dheeraj Tyagi: Dheeraj was a Master’s student in Germany, working as a delivery rider for Uber Eats. Disturbed by the company’s unfair payment policies and poor working conditions, he chose to lead a protest alongside his co-workers. As a result, he was dismissed the very next day — leaving him unemployed for months. His story reflects a harsh reality that many South Asian students in Germany fear but...

In this bold and heartfelt episode of Beyond Borders, Aakriti Dhawan speaks with designer, healer, and outspoken LGBTQ+ voice Akassh K Aggarwal. From his experiences navigating gender and identity to calling out tokenism in Bollywood, Akassh shares what it really means to be seen—and unseen—in Indian society.

🌈 Topics Covered:

💬 “It’s not just about being invited to the table. It...

What happens when two women—one from India, one from Pakistan—sit down for an honest, no-politics conversation about life, culture, and identity? In this episode of Beyond Borders, I speak with Alishba, a Pakistani guest, to explore what growing up across the border really feels like. From shared foods and family expectations to media narratives and gender roles, nothing is off-limits. ✨ A rare, real exchange that cuts through noise, nationalism, and inherited narratives. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more conversations that go beyond headlines and boundaries. #IndiaPakistan #BeyondBorders #CrossBorderStories #SouthAsia #WomenVoices #CultureAndIdentity #Podcast #UnfilteredConversations #AakritiDhaw...

In this powerful episode, ⁠ @NanditaKhandelwal ⁠ (fitness and health coach) breaks the silence around women’s health issues that are often misunderstood or ignored. From period pain and PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) to hormonal health and wellness, we explore why it’s time to normalize these conversations.

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She started in a small town. Today, she wears the crown. In this powerful episode, Miss TransQueen India 2023 and Miss International Queen India 2024, Arshi Ghosh, opens up about her journey as a trans woman in India — from facing rejection and invisibility to becoming a national icon of beauty, strength, and change. We dive into what it was like growing up trans in small-town India, the pressure and power of pageantry, the deep need to be truly seen, and the ongoing fight to challenge stereotypes and claim space in a world that often resists difference.

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Meena Kotwal, Shivalika Puri, Jaishree Kumar, Shumaila Khan, and host Aakriti Dhawan discuss the layered challenges of casteism, sexism, rape threats, online harassment, and the everyday fear of being a woman journalist in India. The world’s largest democracy, yet ranked 159th in the 2024 World Press Freedom Index, what does reporting, resisting, and reclaiming space as a woman in the Indian newsroom mean?

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In this powerful talk, Pallavi Garg — a fierce #criminal #lawyer breaking barriers in a male-dominated field - shares her journey, challenges in the courtroom, and take on the 'superwoman' label often placed on #women. A compelling chat on gender, grit, and redefining success.

In this candid conversation, Dr. Wali shares fascinating insights from his decades-long medical career, what it’s like treating India’s top leaders, and his take on the future of healthcare in India as well as hope for young adults. We dive deep into a nation’s health pulse — with a few laughs along the way.

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Sashank Navaladi, is a distinguished Indian music composer, sarod player, and vocalist. He sits with us to talk about his journey - making cross-border music, and living as a South Asian in LA. He discusses his work with #alisethi #arrahman and #beck. To everyone out there striving to build a better world for themselves—this one's for you.Host: Aakriti Dhawan Editor:

Lakshay Sharma /Subham SharmaProducer: Manish KumarStudio: Metrol Studios

00:00 Intro00:25 What is it like being in the limelight 1:56 Childhood and being an overachiever 2:30 Being on Pogo3:20 Going beyond the border4:40 Berklee College of Music/Be...

What does single motherhood really cost?

In this deeply personal episode of Beyond Borders Podcast, I sit down with my mother for an unfiltered conversation about raising a daughter alone, generational expectations, mental health, and the quiet sacrifices that often go unseen.

This is a Women’s Day tribute. It’s a real conversation about power, pressure, and love across generations.

If this episode resonates with you, follow Beyond Borders for more conversations that challenge and connect.

00:00 Intro 00:20 How are you today? 00:30 Women today vs then 1:06 Single Parenting/Special episode 3:13 Culture, Educ...

Reena Rai, the visionary behind Miss TransQueen India, is on a mission to challenge stereotypes and reshape the narrative around inclusivity. In this episode, we dive into her journey—her struggles, victories, and the impact of true representation. How do we move beyond stereotypes? And what role does it take to shape a change? Tune in for an insightful conversation that goes beyond borders! Host: Aakriti Dhawan Editor: Lakshay Sharma Producer: Manish Kumar Studio: Metrol Studios #BeyondBorders #ReenaRai #Inclusivity #Podcast #RepresentationMatters Disclaimer: This content is created for entertainment and conversational purposes only. We do not intend to hurt, offend, or...