Radio Azim Premji University

Love in Kannada has never stayed in one place. It has moved between poetry and song, slipped into everyday speech, lingered in silence, and sometimes arrived through cinema in ways no one quite expected. In this Valentine’s Day special of Noorakke Nooru Karnataka, Kannada Premakavya explores how love has been imagined and reimagined in Kannada culture — with Mungaaru Male standing as one of the moments when that imagination visibly shifted. With actress Pooja Gandhi in conversation, we reflect on how the film did more than tell a love story. It altered mood, tone, and emotional texture. Romance became less performative and more inward. Nature became part of feeling. Music carried meaning beyond the screen. A generation began to recognise its own emotions in quieter gestures. But Mungaaru Male sits within a much longer tradition. The episode journeys through the lyricists who shaped how love is spoken in Kannada cinema — from earlier eras where longing first found a popular voice, to later writers who made intimacy feel contemporary and close. It listens to how certain songs became emotional reference points, how lines from film lyrics entered daily conversation, and how melody often said what dialogue could not. From there, the conversation turns to Kannada literature — to poets who imagined love as restlessness, as ethical responsibility, as care that extends beyond romance. To works that once travelled into homes as gifts and blessings. To writing that shaped emotional thought long before cinema arrived. Interwoven through this cultural journey is a personal one. What does it mean to come to Kannada from outside and slowly grow into it? How does a language become familiar not just through grammar, but through affection, music, and shared memory? Kannada Premakavya is not about defining love. It is about noticing how Kannada has carried it — across generations, forms, and feelings. #LoveInKannada #MungaaruMale #KannadaCinema #KannadaLyrics #KannadaLiterature #KarnatakaCulture #ValentinesDaySpecial #Premaloka #Ravichandran #YograjBhat #JayanthKaikini #Rajkumar #SaptasagaradaAache #DRBendre #NaakuTanthi #Kuvempu #YelliJaaritoManavu #MysoreMallige ಕನ್ನಡದಲ್ಲಿ ಪ್ರೀತಿ ಕಾವ್ಯ ಮತ್ತು ಹಾಡಿನ ನಡುವೆ ಚಲಿಸಿದೆ, ದೈನಂದಿನ ಸಂಭಾಷಣೆಯಲ್ಲಿದೆ, ಮೌನದಲ್ಲಿ ಕಾಲಹರಣ ಮಾಡಿದೆ ಮತ್ತು ಕೆಲವೊಮ್ಮೆ ಯಾರೂ ನಿರೀಕ್ಷಿಸದ ರೀತಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ಸಿನಿಮಾದ ಮೂಲಕವೂ ತಲುಪಿದೆ. ನೂರಕ್ಕೆ ನೂರು ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದ ಈ ಪ್ರೇಮಿಗಳ ದಿನದ ವಿಶೇಷ ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮದ 'ಕನ್ನಡ ಪ್ರೇಮಕಾವ್ಯ'ವು ಕನ್ನಡ ಸಂಸ್ಕೃತಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ಪ್ರೀತಿಯನ್ನು ಹೇಗೆ ಕಲ್ಪಿಸಿಕೊಳ್ಳಲಾಗಿದೆ ಮತ್ತು ಮರುಕಲ್ಪಿಸಿಕೊಳ್ಳಲಾಗಿದೆ ಎಂಬುದನ್ನು ಅನ್ವೇಷಿಸುತ್ತದೆ - ಆ ಕಲ್ಪನೆಯು ಗೋಚರವಾಗಿ ಬದಲಾದ ಕ್ಷಣಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ಮುಂಗಾರು ಮಳೆಯೂ ಒಂದು. ನಟಿ ಪೂಜಾ ಗಾಂಧಿಯವರ ಜೊತೆ ಸಂಭಾಷಣೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ವರ್ಷಾ ರಾಮಚಂದ್ರ, ಚಿತ್ರವು ಪ್ರೇಮಕಥೆಯನ್ನು ಹೇಳುವುದಕ್ಕಿಂತ ಹೆಚ್ಚಿನದನ್ನು ಹೇಗೆ ಮಾಡಿತು, ಪ್ರೀತಿಯ ವಿನ್ಯಾಸವನ್ನು ಹೇಗೆ ಬದಲಾಯಿಸಿತು, ಪ್ರಣಯ ಹೇಗೆ ಒಳಮುಖಿಯಾಯಿತು ಎಂಬುದನ್ನು ವಿವರಿಸುತ್ತಾರೆ. ಕನ್ನಡ ಚಿತ್ರರಂಗದಲ್ಲಿ ಪ್ರೀತಿಯನ್ನು ಹೇಗೆ ವ್ಯಕ್ತಪಡಿಸಲಾಗುತ್ತದೆ ಎಂಬುದನ್ನು ರೂಪಿಸಿದ ಕವಿಗಳ ಮತ್ತು ಗೀತರಚನೆಕಾರರಿಂದ ಹಿಡಿದು, ಅನ್ಯೋನ್ಯತೆಯನ್ನು ಸಮಕಾಲೀನ ಮತ್ತು ನಿಕಟವೆಂದು ಭಾವಿಸುವಂತೆ ಮಾಡಿದ ನಂತರದ ಬರಹಗಾರರವರೆಗೆ ಈ ಸಂಚಿಕೆಯು ಪ್ರಯಾಣಿಸುತ್ತದೆ. ಈ ಮಾತುಕತೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ಬಹಳ ಆಪ್ತವಾದ ಅಂಶ ಒಂದಿದೆ. ಅದು, 'ಕನ್ನಡಕ್ಕೆ ಬಂದು ನಿಧಾನವಾಗಿ ಬೆಳೆಯುವುದು ಎಂದರೇನು? ವ್ಯಾಕರಣದ ಮೂಲಕ ಮಾತ್ರವಲ್ಲದೆ, ವಾತ್ಸಲ್ಯ, ಸಂಗೀತ ಮತ್ತು ಹಂಚಿಕೊಂಡ ಸ್ಮರಣೆಯ ಮೂಲಕ ಒಂದು ಭಾಷೆ ಹೇಗೆ ಪರಿಚಿತವಾಗುತ್ತದೆ?' ಎಂಬುದು. ‘ಕನ್ನಡ ಪ್ರೇಮಕಾವ್ಯ' ಪ್ರೀತಿಯನ್ನು ವ್ಯಾಖ್ಯಾನಿಸುವುದರ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ಅಲ್ಲ. ಕನ್ನಡವು ಅದನ್ನು ಹೇಗೆ ತಲೆಮಾರುಗಳು, ರೂಪಗಳು ಮತ್ತು ಭಾವನೆಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ಸಾಗಿಸಿದೆ ಎಂಬುದನ್ನು ಗಮನಿಸುವುದರ ಬಗ್ಗೆ.

9 गाने, 9 भाषाएँ, एक हिंदुस्तान हम अक्सर “एकता में विविधता” की बात एक नारे की तरह करते हैं — लेकिन कैसा होगा अगर हम उसे सुन सकें तो! संविधानि पिटारा के इस रीपब्लिक डे स्पेशल एपिसोड में हम लाए हैं हिंदुस्तान की नई गीतमाला — गानों के ज़रिए भारत की उन भाषाओं और संस्कृतियों की यात्रा जो आमतौर पर हमारे प्लेलिस्ट्स तक नहीं पहुंच पाती हैं, लेकिन हमेशा से हमारे देश के दिल में बसती हैं। इन गानों में ज़मीन कि खुशबू है, पलायन का दुख है, पीछे छूटी मिट्टी कि याद है, और जानी-अनजानी अनगिनत कहानियाँ हैं, ऐसी आवाज़ों में जो पीढ़ियों से जिंदा रही हैं। Top Hits from India, A Powerful Playlist | Samvidhaani Pitaara | Republic Day Special On Republic Day, we talk about unity in diversity like it’s a slogan. But what if we could hear it? In this special episode of Samvidhaani Pitaara, we bring you Hindustan Ki Nayi Geetmala — a musical journey across lesser-known languages and cultures that rarely make it to mainstream playlists, but have always belonged to the heart of this country. These songs don’t just entertain — they carry memory, migration, land, labour, longing, and pride, in voices that have survived generations. Listen to the full songs here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLo3VipWSCalmvc6LqRP3iPtTb9PGt8a-B Featured songs & themes from across India: Kutchdo Yaad Kariya | Kutchi | Manasi Parekh Gohil : A song of longing and memory for Kutchh, soaked in nostalgia: Dania | Garo |Ahowee: A folk song tied to the land, sung in the spirit of sowing season. Kadal Poiye | Tulu | Alva Kuuto: A song titled ocean and the sand talks about the pristine waters of the south-western coast of India. It celebrates Tulu in its unique landscape. Rinjodi | Koraputia / Desia — A rooted Koraput folk song filled with community rhythm and cultural pride. Saadharan Insaan | Garhwali | Martand Badoni — A song about being ordinary, humble, and human. dZambuling-la | Ladakhi | Dashugs: This song offers a gentle reminder to choose wisely and focus on what truly matters, because not all that glitters is gold. Loktak Song | Manipuri | Nganthoibi Ningthoujam : A gentle song rooted in Loktak’s beauty, water, and memory. Padki | Chota Nagpuri | Francis Xalxo, Nurani Karuna Surin & Gaurav Raj : A powerful migration song that asks people not to leave their land behind. Apatani Folk Song | Apatani (Arunachal Pradesh) | Mudang Pabyang: This Apatani folk song, also known as a bwsi (traditionally sung by women), traces the journey of the Apatani people of the Dwbo belt, from the land of spirits to present-day Dwbo village. Credits & Sources Clips used in this video were sourced from the following YouTube videos: Ahowee: https://youtu.be/_yyS27GGyx8?si=a56t3PBtqg0ULxZF https://youtu.be/J72g-_bOMWg?si=xj53BhfkcB3kyI83 Banglanatak dot com: https://www.youtube.com/@banglanatak BBC News: https://youtu.be/MV2-mpuqQQo?si=7FcwFMirvcl07qZD BlackSheep Productions: https://youtu.be/x9ovsIg0hPI?si=zfXjRQA2pqJMfVcn Desia Creation: https://youtu.be/0kHO9QfHKBw?si=PNFgo8z8WPWcDzFI Incredible Apatani Valley: https://youtu.be/Lrl_j65vTag?si=EMDIqrSF06smIb7r Good Food Movement: https://youtu.be/s9EcZ4b2L5g?si=WSzl-ngoorpsE088 Green Hub Video Diary: https://youtu.be/P7w0jtbeCVo?si=xOHtpUd1NOLRUteL Gujarati Jalso: https://youtu.be/JNMvBKY1uSk?si=cDfCnkl4x1QSwe9o Gujarat Tourism: https://youtu.be/QjXlGqLQWNc?si=dyf_T8a2ziLPwsGI HangKok Films: https://youtu.be/3NZ1iU97nEY?si=oiJLdrRtzIWWQGfW Hombale Films: https://youtu.be/_UoTF4XLbpY?si=woim95sqn33tghEs Jenny and Adam: https://youtu.be/E6jbs44W10w?si=etGNwSOz73aFY9fk Kanishk Gupta: https://youtu.be/ROgPMyNEIMI?si=lopNkDP8rHe2MZCR Martand Badoni: https://youtu.be/r6bxzZcbsm0?si=3Fzoeuwye6UeD9GV

In this Sankranti special of Noorakke Nooru Karnataka, we’re joined by Skandyyman, one of the earliest podcasters in Kannada, and Sowjanya, who began her career in radio before moving into podcasting. These are voices you’ve probably heard before, voices that feel familiar, even if you’ve never seen the faces. They talk about podcasting as a medium — how the names have changed but the format hasn’t. What once existed as radio promos and previews now shows up as teasers and episode drops. The core remains the same: people talking, others listening. Skandyyman reflects on how his North Karnataka accent became central to his podcasting journey. Instead of neutralising or polishing it, he leaned into it — and that genuineness shaped how listeners connected with him. The conversation returns often to this idea of being real: that podcasting works best when voices aren’t trying too hard to fit a mould. They also revisit some of their favourite episodes, moments that stayed with them, and break a few common myths around podcasting — about reach, effort, and what success really looks like. Language and identity enter the conversation without grand claims. Sowjanya recalls a conversation with Jayanth Kaikini, who once remarked that the anxiety of “saving Kannada” is largely a Bangalore idea — travel fifty kilometres and you’ll hear the language spoken with ease and confidence. Languages don’t need to be protected in theory; they only need room to be lived in. The discussion also touches on how cinema, as a medium, has often fixed language and identity into rigid stereotypes, while podcasting allows space for more ordinary, layered voices. So sit back, listen in, and enjoy conversations that remind us why podcasting is such a loved medium. #PodcastersGeQuestionsAa, #NoorakkeNooruKarnataka, #PodcastConversation, #IndianPodcasters, #PodcastCulture, #PodcastingInIndia, #BehindTheMic, #NewMediaIndia, #SankrantiSpecial, #FestiveConversations, #VoicesYouKnow, #ContentCreators

What does the next era of sports look like — and what role will sports media play in shaping it? In this epilogue episode of Game Play Sport, our Indian sports podcast, the three hosts look back at Season 1 — revisiting their favourite episodes, most memorable guests, and the conversations that stayed with them long after recording. The discussion reflects on: The next era of sports and how Indian sport might change over the next decade The role of sports media in shaping narratives, expectations, and public memory The episodes and interviews that best captured the spirit of the season Personal sporting moments, lessons, and turning points for the hosts themselves _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ 🎇CHAPTERS 0:52 - Our Greatest Sporting Achievement 2:30 - Our Favourite Episode From The Season 5:07 - Favourite Guests To Interview 7:34 - The Role Of Sports Media 14:00 - Why We Started Game Play Sport 16:50 - "Watching Sports Is Not Enough. You Have To Play Too!" 18:59 - Predictions For the Next Era of Sports _____________________________________________________________________________________________ This episode is both a wrap-up and a pause — a chance to think about where sport is headed, how it is talked about, and why these conversations matter beyond wins and losses. Whether you’re discovering Game Play Sport for the first time or have followed the season closely, this epilogue offers a clear sense of what the show set out to explore — sport as culture, labour, pressure, media, and public life. ▶️ Watch the Game Play Sport Epilogue, only on Radio Azim Premji University. #GamePlaySport, #IndianSports, #IndianSportsPodcast, #SportsPodcastIndia, #FutureOfIndianSports, #SportsConversations, #IndianAthletes, #SportsMedia, #RadioAzimPremjiUniversity, #SportsDiscussion, #IndianSportCulture

೨೦೦೦ ಇಸವಿ ಸ್ವಲ್ಪ ಅನಿಶ್ಚಿತತೆಯೊಂದಿಗೆ ಬಂದಿತು - Y2K ಭಯ, ಹೊಸ ಮಹತ್ವಾಕಾಂಕ್ಷೆಗಳು, ಹೊಸ ಆತಂಕಗಳು. ಮುಂದಿನ 25 ವರ್ಷಗಳಲ್ಲಿ, ಕರ್ನಾಟಕವು ಬದಲಾಗಲಿಲ್ಲ. ಅದು ತನ್ನದೇ ಆದ ಕಥೆಯನ್ನು ಹೇಗೆ ಹೇಳಬೇಕೆಂದು ಕಲಿತಿತು. ನೂರಕ್ಕೆ ನೂರು ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದ ಈ ಸಂಚಿಕೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ವರ್ಷ ರಾಮಚಂದ್ರ 2000–2025ರ ನಡುವೆ ಸಾರ್ವಜನಿಕ ನೆನಪಿನಲ್ಲಿ ಉಳಿದಿರುವ ಕ್ಷಣಗಳ ಮೂಲಕ ನೆನಪಿಸಿಕೊಳ್ಳುತ್ತಾರೆ. ಡಾ. ರಾಜ್‌ಕುಮಾರ್ ಅಪಹರಣದಿಂದ ವಿಜಯ್ ಮಲ್ಯ ಅವರ ಉಗಮ ಮತ್ತು ಪತನದವರೆಗೆ, ರಾಯಲ್ ಚಾಲೆಂಜರ್ಸ್ ಬೆಂಗಳೂರಿನ ಅಭಿಮಾನಿಗಳ ಭಾವನಾತ್ಮಕ ಪ್ರಪಂಚದಿಂದ ರಂಗಶಂಕರದಂತಹ ಸಾಂಸ್ಕೃತಿಕ ಸ್ಥಳಗಳವರೆಗೆ. ದ್ವೀಪ, ಮುಂಗಾರು ಮಳೆ, ಲೂಸಿಯ, ತಿಥಿ ಮತ್ತು ಕೆಜಿಎಫ್‌ನಂತಹ ಚಿತ್ರಗಳ ಜೊತೆಗೆ ರಕ್ಷಿತ್ ಶೆಟ್ಟಿ, ರಾಜ್ ಬಿ. ಶೆಟ್ಟಿ ಮತ್ತು ರಿಷಬ್ ಶೆಟ್ಟಿ ಇವರ ಉದಯದ ಮೂಲಕ ಕನ್ನಡ ಚಿತ್ರರಂಗ ಹೇಗೆ ಹೊಸ ವಿಶ್ವಾಸವನ್ನು ಕಂಡುಕೊಂಡಿತು ಎಂಬುದನ್ನು ಇದು ಗುರುತಿಸುತ್ತದೆ. ಈ ವರ್ಷಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದಲ್ಲಿ ಸದ್ದು ಮಾಡಿದ ರಾರಾ ಸರಸಕು ರಾ ರಾ, ಮುಂಗಾರು ಮಳೆ, ವರಹ ರೂಪಂ, ಬೊಂಬೆ ಹೇಳುತೈತೆ, ಮತ್ತು ಬೆಳಗೆದ್ದು ಯಾರ ಮುಖವ ನಾನು ನೋಡಿದೆ ಮುಂತಾದ ಹಾಡುಗಳನ್ನು ಗುನುಗುತ್ತದೆ ಮತ್ತು ಸಂಗೀತ, ವಿಜ್ಞಾನ, ಪರಿಸರ ವಿಜ್ಞಾನ ಮತ್ತು ಸಾಮಾಜಿಕ ನ್ಯಾಯವನ್ನು ರೂಪಿಸಿದ ಪಂಡಿತ್ ಭೀಮಸೇನ್ ಜೋಶಿ, ಸಿ.ಎನ್.ಆರ್.ರಾವ್, ಸಾಲುಮರದ ತಿಮ್ಮಕ್ಕ, ಹರೀಶ್ ಹಂದೆ, ಮತ್ತು ಬೆಜವಾಡ ವಿಲ್ಸನ್ ಅವರಂತಹ ಕನ್ನಡಿಗರನ್ನು ಗೌರವಿಸುತ್ತದೆ. ಇದು ಕೇವಲ ಪಟ್ಟಿಯಲ್ಲ, ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದ ನೆನಪು - ಸಾಧನೆಗಳ ಪಕ್ಷಿನೋಟ. ನೀವು ಯಾವ ಚಲನಚಿತ್ರ, ಹಾಡು ಅಥವಾ ಕ್ಷಣವನ್ನು ಸೇರಿಸಲು ಬಯಸುತ್ತೀರಿ? ಕೆಳಗೆ ಕಾಮೆಂಟ್ ಮಾಡಿ ತಿಳಿಸಿ. From Y2K to Now: Karnataka | The Last 25 Years of Karnataka The turn of the millennium came with uncertainty — the Y2K scare, new ambitions, new anxieties. Over the next 25 years, Karnataka didn’t just change. It learned how to tell its own story. In this episode of Noorakke Nooru Karnataka Varsha Ramachandra looks back at 2000–2025 through moments that stayed in public memory — from the abduction of Dr. Rajkumar to the rise and fall of Vijay Mallya, from the emotional world of Royal Challengers Bangalore fandom to cultural spaces like Rangashankara. It traces how Kannada cinema found new confidence through the rise of the three Rs — Rakshit Shetty, Raj B. Shetty, and Rishab Shetty — alongside films like Dweepa, Mungaru Male, Lucia, Thithi, and KGF, moments when Kannada storytelling stopped explaining itself and began asserting itself. It listens to how Karnataka sounded over these years — through songs like Ra Ra Sarasaku Ra Ra, Mungaru Maleye, Varaha Roopam, Bombe Helutaite, and Belageddu Yaara Mukhava Naanu Nodidde — and honours Kannadigas whose work shaped music, science, ecology, and social justice: Pandit Bhimsen Joshi, C. N. R. Rao, Saalumarada Thimmakka, Harish Hande, and Bezwada Wilson. This is not just a list but a way to remember Karnataka. What film, song, or moment would you like to add? Comment below and let us know #FromY2KtoNow, #HowKarnatakaRemembered, #NoorakkeNooruKarnataka, #KarnatakadaTop25, #Karnataka2000to2025, #KannadaPride, #KannadaCulture, #KannadaCinema, #KannadaMusic, #KannadaLiterature, #DrRajkumar, #VijayMallya, #RCB, #Rangashankara, #RakshitShetty, #RajBShetty, #RishabShetty, #PanditBhimsenJoshi, #CNRRao, #SaalumaradaThimmakka, #HarishHande, #BezwadaWilson, #KGF, #MungaruMale, #LuciaFilm, #Thithi, #KarnatakaHistory, #RadioAzimPremjiUniversity

What makes doctors begin their careers in rural India—and keep going for three decades? Dr. John and Mercy John reveal why they stayed—and how their work transformed healthcare in Bissam Cuttack, Odisha. In this episode of The Health Worker, host Ram G. Vallath from the Azim Premji Foundation brings you the story of Dr. John “Johnny” Oommen (MD, CMC Vellore) and Mercy John, who chose to serve the tribal communities of Bissam Cuttack, Odisha, instead of pursuing lucrative careers in India or abroad. For three decades, they've tackled challenges most doctors in India never face—infant mortality rates of 200 per 1,000, under-five mortality touching 350 per 1,000, high birth rates & high death rates, zero healthcare infrastructure, and communities where seeing a doctor meant traveling hours. What you'll discover: - Why these doctors chose rural Odisha over high-paying urban positions - How they built a healthcare system from scratch in Bissam Cuttack - The real impact of 30 years of commitment to rural medicine - What keeps healthcare workers motivated in India's most challenging regions - How they built a nursing workforce when faculty was impossible to find - How community-led malaria control saved children’s lives About the Health Worker Series: Exploring the lives and choices of healthcare professionals serving India's rural communities, where dedication meets extraordinary challenges. For more inspiring and informative content on India Public Health, visit us at 🎙️ More conversations on democracy, culture & society: Subscribe to Radio Azim Premji University for podcasts exploring India's biggest questions—from education and science to constitutional values and social change. #RuralHealthcare, #DoctorsOfIndia, #HealthcareHeroes, #TribalHealth, #CommunityHealth, #PublicHealthIndia, #HealthcareInIndia, #DoctorsWhoServe, #HealthWorker, #HealthcareEquity, #RuralIndia, #HealthcareStories, #FrontlineHealth, #MedicalEthics #odisha #ruralodisha

Is India chasing the right dream when it comes to sports — or have we lost our way? In this explosive finale of Game Play Sport on Radio Azim Premji University, our 3 sports hosts Rahul De, Arvind Bharathi B N & Kailash Kaushik take on ten outspoken students in a high-stakes, Jubilee-style Surrounded debate. From malls replacing playgrounds to Esports players being called athletes, this episode unpacks the biggest ideological battles shaping India’s sporting culture today. 🔥 Debates Inside the Episode Malls Over Maidaans: Are we trading childhood play for consumerism? One Gold Medalist vs a Billion Active People: What counts as national success? Medals Over Motion: Why are young athletes burning out? Esports: Athletes, addicts, or the future of Indian sport? This is not just about games. It’s about public health, youth identity, and whether India values movement or medals more. _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Special thanks to all the students of Azim Premji University who participated! 🎙 Featuring Rahul De • Arvind Bharathi • Kailash Kaushik ✨ A Radio Azim Premji University Original 👇 Comment below: Are we building a healthier nation — or just chasing podiums? #GamePlaySport #Surrounded #SportsDebate #IndianSports #YouthSports #EsportsIndia #PlaygroundsVsMalls #SportsCulture #FitIndia #KheloIndia #SportsEducation #MedalsVsMovement #jubilee #neerajchopra

India competes across the world — at the Olympics, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and countless individual tournaments — with delegations far smaller than its population and talent pool suggest. The real issue isn’t performance. It’s the harsh, uneven journey that pushes most young athletes out long before they enter any official system. In this episode of Game Play Sport, we follow the story of Raziya Khan, midfielder for Odisha FC, who first discovered football when Teach For India fellows brought the sport into her school. Her earliest memory is of playing football with a bottle filled with stones — a symbol of how little infrastructure existed, and how much imagination was required to dream. From there, Raziya travelled hours every day to reach practice, balanced schoolwork with training, and carried the emotional load of wanting something her environment wasn’t designed to support. Her journey mirrors what athletes in individual sports face too — from runners training before sunrise, to wrestlers and boxers commuting long distances, to badminton and athletics hopefuls fighting for basic access. We explore why India sends small teams to global events, why many talented children leave sport before they ever compete, and what it would take to build a sporting pipeline worthy of India’s size and ambition. Listen to the full episode and rethink the journey behind every athlete we celebrate. #IndianSports #Olympics #AsianGames #CommonwealthGames #WorldChampionships #RaziyaKhan #OdishaFC #WomenInSport #IndividualSports #FootballIndia #TeachForIndia #SportsAccess #SportsForChange #AzimPremjiUniversity

India is home to over half a billion gamers — from PUBG to Valorant, from mobile cricket to FIFA — yet still struggles to find its footing in the global esports arena. In this episode of Game Play Sport, Aravind, Kailash, and Rahul sit down with Ram Seshadri, producer and avid gamer, and Sudhen Wahengbam,esports commentator, to explore why India’s massive gaming population hasn’t translated into world-class esports success. The discussion journeys through India’s unique gaming culture — from cyber cafés to the era of mobile dominance — and asks tough questions: Why do micro-transaction models that work elsewhere fail here? How did the Waves OTT Summit and the Asian Games put esports on the national map? And what can India learn from countries like Brazil, Denmark, and South Korea, where esports athletes like FalleN are celebrated like traditional sports heroes? Ram unpacks the landscape of modern esports — fighter games,first person shooter games,, battle royales, sports games, multiplayer online battle arena (MUBA), and real-time strategy games — explaining why India’s fragmented digital infrastructure and low per-user spending make sustainability difficult. Sudhen reflects on perception and policy: how parental anxiety, uneven regulation, and limited institutional backing hold the ecosystem back. Yet both see hope in the mobile gaming revolution, where India already leads the world in downloads. Listen to the podcast “Can India Become a Global Esports Powerhouse?” and discover what it will take for India to turn play into purpose, and gamers into athletes.

What if that catchy Bollywood song you grew up humming wasn’t Bollywood at all? In this episode of Unboxed, Amit Basole is joined by Sharmadip Basu and Kalyani K from Azim Premji University to uncover the incredible story of Chutney Music — a genre born from migration, memory, and musical remixing. It begins in 1980s Bengal, where a young Sharmadip first hears Kaise Bani Phulouri Bina Chutney Kaise Bani — thinking it’s just another filmi tune. Years later, in an Indo-Caribbean neighbourhood in New York, he realises it’s actually by Sundar Popo, the father of Chutney Music. That revelation opens up an oceanic history — from indentured labourers (Girmitiyas) who sailed from Bihar and Awadh after 1835, to the birth of a new sound that blended Bhojpuri folk with Caribbean rhythm. Together, Amit, Sharmadip, and Kalyani trace how artists like Rasika Dindial (Lazy Man) and Drupatee Ramgoonai (Roll Up de Tassa) turned this hybrid sound into a stage for self-expression — where Hindi met Creole, and women found their voice in song. Watch now to explore how a tune travelled across oceans — and came back as Chutney Music, reshaping Bollywood, diaspora identity, and the very meaning of rhythm. #ChutneyMusic #UnboxedPodcast #AzimPremjiUniversity #SundarPopo #KaiseBani #DrupateeRamgoonai #RasikaDindial #CaribbeanMusic #BhojpuriFolk #Soca #Calypso #DiasporaMusic #BollywoodMusic #IndianDiaspora #MigrationStories #Unboxed #AmitBasole #CulturalFusion #Girmitiyas

Dream11’s fall has reignited a major debate in India’s gaming world — is it skill or gambling? With the new Online Gaming Bill 2025, the government is redrawing boundaries around real money gaming, raising crucial questions for players, companies, and policymakers alike. In this episode of Game Play Sport by Radio Azim Premji University, we explore: What the Online Gaming Bill 2025 really means Why Dream11’s fall changed the real money gaming landscape How to distinguish gaming vs gambling in India’s digital era The future of fantasy sports, e-gaming, and play for profit 🎧 A deep dive into ethics, law, and the economics of play in India. #Dream11 #OnlineGamingBill #RealMoneyGaming #GamblingVsGaming #FantasySports #MPL #OnlineGamingIndia #DigitalIndia #SportsEconomy #GamePlaySport #RadioAzimPremjiUniversity #GamingInIndia #GamingRegulation #India2025

Are We Killing the Joy of Play? Are we pushing kids too hard, too soon? In this episode of Game Play Sport, Arvind, Kailash and Rahul talk with Chelston Pinto about why India’s sports education system needs more unstructured play and age-appropriate training and how Indian kids are burning out and what needs to be done to fix it. Discover how the National Education Policy puts sports at the heart of schooling, why early specialization can harm kids, and what even Neeraj Chopra’s injuries teach us about overtraining. Learn how schools, parents and workplaces can create spaces for kids to run, climb and kick — and make movement a lifelong habit. The episode also explores the Long-Term Athlete Development model — starting with pure movement and fun in the early years (0–6), building fundamental strength and coordination (6–9), and only then introducing structured, non-competitive play after 10. He explains why boys and girls need separate training post-puberty as they peak at different ages and develop differently. Early sports specialization — especially without a foundation of unstructured play — can lead to injuries, burnout and even kids walking away from sports altogether. Watch “Are We Killing the Joy of Play?" and find out how to raise healthier, happier kids here. Special thanks to Chelston Pinto for the interview. Discover more shows in English, Hindi, and Kannada: https://azimpremjiuniversity.edu.in/radio-azim-premji-university Follow us on Instagram: @radioazimpremjiuniv Credits: Akshay Ramuhalli, Bruce Lee Mani, Gorveck Thokchom, Kishor Mandal, Kruthika Rao, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Ram Seshadri, Sananda Dasgupta, Sanoob Puliyanchali, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar.

From Brute Force to AI Models: How Chess Learned to Play Smarter In 1997, the chess world shook when Garry Kasparov lost to IBM’s Deep Blue — a brute-force machine built to calculate millions of moves per second. Fast forward to today, and AI has moved beyond raw calculation to self-learning models like AlphaZero that teach themselves strategy. In this episode of Game Play Sport, guest Kedar Kulkarni takes us through the journey of chess and AI — how a 1,500-year-old game didn’t die when machines became stronger, but instead adapted, evolved, and even became more popular. What can other sports learn from this? Can cricket, football, or even esports embrace AI in the same way? Watch the full episode and discover how AI is rewriting the rules of the game #Chess #ArtificialIntelligence #Kasparov #DeepBlue #AlphaZero #Stockfish #SportsAndAI #GamePlaySport #AIFuture #ChessHistory

ಈ ಆಗಸ್ಟ್ 15 ರಂದು, ದೇಶಾದ್ಯಂತ ತ್ರಿವರ್ಣ ಧ್ವಜ ಹಾರಾಡುತ್ತಿದ್ದಂತೆ, ಹುಬ್ಬಳ್ಳಿಯ ಬೆಂಗೇರಿಯನ್ನು ನೆನಪಿಸಿಕೊಳ್ಳಿ ಏಕೆಂದರೆ, ಅದು ತನ್ನ ಪ್ರಯಾಣವನ್ನು ಪ್ರಾರಂಭಿಸುವುದು ಇಲ್ಲಿಯೇ. ಇಲ್ಲಿ, ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ ಖಾದಿ ಗ್ರಾಮೋದ್ಯೋಗ ಸಂಯುಕ್ತ ಸಂಘದ ಮಹಿಳೆಯರು ರಾಷ್ಟ್ರಧ್ವಜವನ್ನು ಸಂಪೂರ್ಣವಾಗಿ ಕೈಯಿಂದ ನೂಲುತ್ತಾರೆ, ನೇಯುತ್ತಾರೆ ಮತ್ತು ಹೊಲಿಯುತ್ತಾರೆ ಹಾಗು ಸ್ವಾತಂತ್ರ್ಯ ಹೋರಾಟದಲ್ಲಿ ಜನಿಸಿದ ಕರಕುಶಲತೆಯನ್ನು ಜೀವಂತವಾಗಿರಿಸುತ್ತಾರೆ. ಆದರೆ ಪಾಲಿಯೆಸ್ಟರ್ ಧ್ವಜಗಳಿಗೆ ಅನುಮತಿ ಸಿಕ್ಕ ನಂತರ, ಈ ಸಂಪ್ರದಾಯದ ಭವಿಷ್ಯ ಅನಿಶ್ಚಿತತೆಯಲ್ಲಿದೆ. ನೂರಕ್ಕೆ ನೂರು ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದಲ್ಲಿ, ಬಾಗಲಕೋಟೆಯ ಹತ್ತಿಯಿಂದ ಹುಬ್ಬಳ್ಳಿಯ ಅಂತಿಮ ಹಂತದವರೆಗಿನ ಪ್ರಯಾಣವನ್ನು ತಿಳಿಯುತ್ತ, ಇತಿಹಾಸದ ಭಾರ ಮತ್ತು ಸ್ವಾತಂತ್ರ್ಯದ ಚೈತನ್ಯವನ್ನು ಹೊತ್ತು ಕೆಲಸ ಮಾಡುವ ಮಹಿಳೆಯರನ್ನು ಭೇಟಿಯಾಗುತ್ತೇವೆ. This August 15, as the tricolour flutters across the country, remember the quiet lanes of Bengeri in Hubballi — where it begins its journey. Here, women at the Karnataka Khadi Gramodyoga Samyukta Sangha spin, weave and stitch the national flag entirely by hand, keeping alive a craft born in the freedom struggle. But with polyester flags now permitted, this tradition stands at a crossroads. In Noorakke Nooru Karnataka, we trace the journey from cotton in Bagalkot to the final stitch in Hubballi — and meet the women whose work carries the weight of history and the spirit of freedom itself. Credits Special Thanks to Shivanad Mathapati, the Secretary of Karnataka Khadi Gramodyoga Samyukta Sangha (KKGSS). Akshay Ramuhalli, Bruce Lee Mani, Gorveck Thokchom, Kishor Mandal, Kruthika Rao, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar.

In this episode of Game Play Sport, we dive into the evolving story of India’s sports pay gap—how the difference in salaries and prize money between male and female athletes is finally starting to close. From the BCCI’s landmark equal pay announcements for women cricketers to the growing visibility of female athletes in badminton, wrestling, and football, we break down why this shift matters for gender equality in Indian sports today. We are joined by Aradhana and Shravanti Mokashi — sisters, former state-level badminton players, and now coaches — who’ve spent decades navigating the realities of being women in a space still dominated by men. We also unpack: What Is the Gender Pay Gap in Indian Sports & Why Did It Persist So Long? The Rise of Women’s Sports Sponsorship and Corporate Support The Influence of Saina Nehwal, Jwala Gutta & Ashwini Ponnappa In Shaping The Next Generation of Female Athletes The Economics Behind Equal Pay: Can It Last? Watch this eye-opening discussion on gender equality, pay parity, and the challenges still ahead for women athletes in India. From cricket to the Olympics, discover how India is leading the way toward true sports pay equality—and what it means for the next decade of Indian athletes.

In this episode of Game Play Sport, we dive into how OTT platforms have changed the way Indians experience sports — shifting the focus from just scores and stats to drama, storylines, and spectacle. Sports Are the New Reality TV — And OTT Made It Happen. From behind-the-scenes docuseries to slow-motion replays and cinematic narratives, sport today feels more like a show than ever before. We explore why streaming is not just changing how we watch sports, but why we watch it in the first place. Our hosts also talk about: Why Sports Now Feel Like Reality TV The Netflix Effect: How Streaming Built Star Power All Access, All Drama: What Sports Docuseries Are Really Selling Are We Watching for the Match or the Myth? Don’t miss this sharp and timely conversation about how OTT platforms are rewriting the playbook for Indian sports fans, only on Radio Azim Premji University. Tune in NOW!

In this episode of Noorakke Nooru Karnataka, we sit down with veteran Kannada actor Sundar Raj to explore the cultural legacy of Ravindra Kalakshetra — Bengaluru’s iconic theatre auditorium, only on Radio Azim Premji University. Like many of his generation, Sundar Raj’s journey into cinema began here, under the stage lights of Kalakshetra. For him and countless others, this wasn’t just a venue — it was a launchpad, a learning ground, and a vital chapter in the history of Kannada performing arts.

In this episode of That’s the Thing, Jimmy, Kavya, and Atharva slide into the wide, unyielding backseat of an Ambassador—the car that defined Indian power, politics, and pothole strategy for over five decades. It was a diesel beast. A monocoque marvel. And a boot space that no hatchback today can touch. Modelled after the British Morris Oxford, the Ambassador became the official ride for every babu, neta, and dignitary that mattered. By the 1960s, it wasn’t just on the road—it was the road. Jawaharlal Nehru may have swapped it out for a Cadillac when foreign guests arrived, but Lal Bahadur Shastri made his preferences clear: “I want them to know that the Indian Prime Minister is traveling in a car made in India.” It had fans beyond the government. R.K. Laxman, creator of The Common Man, only drove a black Ambassador. His cartoons? Usually featured one too. But by the '90s, everything changed. Liberalisation flooded Indian roads with Marutis, Daewoos, and Hyundais. Suddenly, spotting a non-Ambassador was a game 90s kids played from the backseat. And soon enough, that backseat was in a Santro. In 2002, Atal Bihari Vajpayee became the first PM to ditch the Ambassador for a BMW—security, they said. By 2014, production of the Ambassador ended. Quietly. Then came another blow. On May 1, 2017, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially ended India’s Laal Batti (red beacon) culture. Overnight, the red-domed Ambassadors vanished—no longer a moving symbol of VIP authority. And just like that, the car that once announced power fell silent. Still, it lingers. In some parking lots. In the collective memory of a nation that once measured status by how high the flagpole rose from the hood. It may be called the white elephant. But try denting it—you’ll see who wins. Discover more shows in English, Hindi, and Kannada: https://azimpremjiuniversity.edu.in/radio-azim-premji-university Follow us on Instagram: @radioazimpremjiuniv Credits Produced by Jimmy Xavier. Radio Azim Premji University: Akshay Ramuhalli, Bruce Lee Mani, Gorveck Thokchom, Kishor Mandal, Kruthika Rao, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Ram Seshadri, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar.

In this episode of Game Play Sport, Rahul De, Kailash Kaushik, and Arvind Bharathi BN dive into fan anger in sports and the emotional core of Indian sports fandom. From Angry Rant Man’s YouTube meltdowns to the infamous 1996 Eden Gardens riot, our relationship with sport often crosses the line from passion to rage. In order to unpack this, we speak with Ryan Thomas Philips, a computational neuroscientist and Assistant Professor at Azim Premji University about how fans closely tie their identity and self-worth to their teams. They also talk about: What Goes On In Your Brain During Tense Sporting Moments! How Sports Commentary Has Changed Over The Years! How Catharsis Plays A Big Role In Fan Anger How Big An Arsenal Fan Is Rahul? Watch this incredibly insightful conversation about what fan anger in sports looks like & how fans closely tie their identity to their favourite sports teams… Tune in NOW! ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Special thanks to Ryan Thomas Philips for being part of this episode. Identification Test Research Article: https://www.researchgate.net/publicat... Credit: Akshay Ramuhalli, Bruce Lee Mani, Gorveck Thokchom, Kishor Mandal, Kruthika Rao, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Ram Seshadri, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar. Acknowledgements: Video: Person smashing keyboard | Video by Pexels Images: Arsenal Red Bistro Mug | Image courtesy: Arsenal Direct Arsenal 25/26 Home Jersey | Image courtesy: Arsenal Direct Arsenal Mousepad – | Image courtesy: Hepsiburada News Articles: Naomi Osaka withdraws from French Open after media boycott | The Guardian, May 31, 2021 Australia beat India in one of the best Tests to take series lead | Al Jazeera, December 30, 2024 India beats New Zealand by four wickets in Champions Trophy final | Al Jazeera, March 9, 2025 Cricket World Cup: India’s heartbreak after loss to Australia | BBC News, November 20, 2023

In this bonus episode of Game Play Sport, we take a closer look at gym culture—who it was built for, and how it has changed. Our conversation with Shwetambari Shetty, founder of My Third Space, traces how fitness spaces that once felt intimidating and exclusionary—especially for women—have slowly evolved into more welcoming environments. She reflects on how strength training was long seen as “not for women,” how both men and women were unsure of how to navigate gym equipment, and why group classes played a key role in making people feel more comfortable and connected. This episode is not just about fitness—it’s about the cultural shift in how we view the gym floor, and how movement can become more accessible when it’s designed for community, not just performance.

In this episode of Game Play Sport, we explore how India’s gym culture has shifted—from basement weight rooms and bodybuilding ideals to wellness-focused routines and group classes. Shwetambari Shetty, founder of Third Space, joins the conversation to reflect on why gyms have felt intimidating for many, and how fitness trends are shaping access, comfort, and community today. Watch this incredibly thought-provoking conversation about how the gym culture in India has evolved and where it will be in 10 years… Tune in NOW!

Pustakadinda Pardega| ಪುಸ್ತಕದಿಂದ ಪರದೆಗೆ by Radio Azim Premji University

Ghazal| That's The Thing| Radio Azim Premji University by Radio Azim Premji University

Game Play Sport| Episode 1| Game Play Sport with Rahul, Arvind, and Kailash by Radio Azim Premji University

You’ve rolled the dice, dodged snakes, and climbed ladders — but did you know Snakes and Ladders began as a lesson in morality? This episode traces the game’s roots to 13th-century Maharashtra, where Sant Jnaneshwar designed Moksha Patam to teach virtues and warn against vices. Each square held a symbolic meaning — generosity, faith, and humility led you upward, while pride and drunkenness pulled you down. The ultimate goal? Reaching Vaikuntha, the abode of Vishnu. The hosts dive into family memories, Ekadashi traditions, and the cultural evolution of the game — from Jnaneshwar’s Hindu board with 72 squares to Jain versions with 84. Special guest, Chandrakant from Jejuri, offers deep insight into the Varkari tradition, Jnaneshwar’s poetic genius, and his radical efforts to democratise spiritual knowledge by translating the Gita into Marathi. With laughter, song, and sharp reflections, the episode transforms a humble board game into a powerful metaphor for life’s journey — where even one misstep near the end (like the snake of pride at square 95) can send you tumbling. Thoughtful and funny, this episode is a reminder that even childhood games can hold timeless wisdom.

ಎಂದೆಂದಿಗೂ ತೇಜಸ್ವಿ | Tejaswi Forever...._ Noorakke Nooru Karnataka| Episode 8 by Radio Azim Premji University

It’s scalding hot, sweet, kadak — and proudly Indian. But can India really lay claim to chai? Hosts Jimmy, Kavya, and Atharva trace the journey of tea from the jungles near the Indo-China border to the boiling kettles of Indian railway stations. From its ancient medicinal uses in China to the British ‘discovery’ of wild tea bushes in Assam, this episode brews up a storm of fun facts, folk songs, and forgotten histories. We learn about Camellia sinensis, the dark legacy of British tea plantations and indentured labour, and the surprising role of Buddhist monks and Taoist philosophers in tea’s rise. The hosts also spill juicy trivia: why all teas come from the same plant, how iced tea rose to fame during Prohibition, and what Cha Bagan Time actually is. From masala chai to teefee and suleimani, this episode celebrates India’s deep love for chai while reminding us of its complex and global roots. Sip, listen, reflect. CREDITS: Produced by Jimmy Xavier Radio Azim Premji University: Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Gorveck Thokchom, Kishor Mandal, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar

Is the auto rickshaw really Indian? Or did it tuk-tuk its way into our hearts from faraway lands? In the debut episode of That’s The Thing, hosts Jimmy Xavier, Kavya Srinivasan, and Atharva Karandikar go on a rollicking ride through the action-packed history of India’s most iconic three-wheeler. From 19th-century Japan’s human-pulled jinrikshas, to Italy’s buzzing Piaggio Ape, to Bajaj Auto’s desi makeover, they unearth the quirky global roots of the autorickshaw. Discover how freedom fighters introduced the auto to India post-Independence, how e-rickshaws are reshaping public transport, and why we might finally have the ride-hailing revolution we need. Along the way, there’s trivia, movie shout-outs (hello Octopussy and Autoraja), and a peek at how autos are doubling up as mobile homes and healthcare vans. Fast, funny, and packed with trivia, this is a history/culture lesson you’ll want to be stuck in traffic for. Hold tight—this ride has no seatbelts! CREDITS: Produced by Jimmy Xavier Radio Azim Premji University: Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Gorveck Thokchom, Kishor Mandal, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar

Is the auto rickshaw really Indian? Or did it tuk-tuk its way into our hearts from faraway lands? In the debut episode of That’s The Thing, hosts Jimmy Xavier, Kavya Srinivasan, and Atharva Karandikar go on a rollicking ride through the action-packed history of India’s most iconic three-wheeler. From 19th-century Japan’s human-pulled jinrikshas, to Italy’s buzzing Piaggio Ape, to Bajaj Auto’s desi makeover, they unearth the quirky global roots of the autorickshaw. Discover how freedom fighters introduced the auto to India post-Independence, how e-rickshaws are reshaping public transport, and why we might finally have the ride-hailing revolution we need. Along the way, there’s trivia, movie shout-outs (hello Octopussy and Autoraja), and a peek at how autos are doubling up as mobile homes and healthcare vans. Fast, funny, and packed with trivia, this is a history/culture lesson you’ll want to be stuck in traffic for. Hold tight—this ride has no seatbelts! CREDITS Produced for Radio Azim Premji University

You thought it was Indian? That’s the thing — it might not be! That’s The Thing is a breezy, curiosity-powered podcast from Radio Azim Premji University that takes a closer look at everyday things we proudly call desi. But are they really? Hosts Jimmy Xavier, Kavya Srinivasan, and Atharva Karandikar dive into surprising backstories, spicy trivia, and oddball records behind familiar Indian objects and ideas. Expect playful banter, sharp insights, and the occasional song as the trio plays historical detective, sifting through origin stories and modern myths. It’s history without the homework — a weekly dose of wonder for the endlessly curious. Whether you’re a trivia geek or just nosy about your kitchen shelf, That’s The Thing promises to challenge what you think you know about what’s “Indian.” Produced by Jimmy Xavier for Radio Azim Premji University Credits Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Gorveck Thokchom, Kishor Mandal, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar

In our daily lives, we often encounter situations where our rights as citizens intersect—or sometimes clash—with the law. While it’s one thing to study the Constitution article by article, it’s quite another to understand the nuances of when and how to exercise those rights. What if you had the chance to call in and consult a constitutional expert? Would that make you more aware of your rights—and more empowered as a citizen? On the occasion of Babasaheb Ambedkar’s birthday, we bring you a special episode of Samvidhaani Pitaara that promotes civic awareness. Hello Samvidhaan is a dramatised simulation of a call-in radio show where listeners from across India raise questions about how the Indian Constitution applies to everyday life. A cast of characters present a variety of dilemmas, each met with clear, practical guidance from an expert. One caller is confused about why he can’t use the RTI to find a bride—after all, isn’t the “right to information” supposed to help with everything? A private school teacher is denied paid maternity leave because her contract is ending—can she still claim her rights? A domestic worker from West Bengal, now living in Bengaluru, recounts her ordeal after her husband is falsely accused of theft—how can she access justice without money for legal help? A young schoolboy complains of being beaten and pressured into tuition by his teacher—does he have any say in how he learns? The Indian Constitution is 75 years old, and it’s time citizens embraced its possibilities fully. In Hello Samvidhaan, host Vineet KKN Panchhi reflects on emphasising the importance of not only knowing our rights, but also upholding our duties as citizens. Credits Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Gorveck Thokchom, Kishor Mandal, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar Acknowledgements Performers: Gulshan Badgujjar, Johanna Lokhande, Hiya Experts: Archana Relan, Geetanjali Prasad, Harsh Gupta, Shivangi Anand

Bengaluru Karaga | ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು ಕರಗ In this special episode of Noorakke Nooru Karnataka, we step into the heart of one of Bengaluru’s oldest and most vibrant traditions—the Bengaluru Karaga. New host Varsha Ramachandra is joined by historian and storyteller Dharmendra Kumar Arenahalli, who has spent years documenting this unique festival. Held in the lunar month of Chaitra, the Karaga is a spectacular night-time procession through the city’s historic Pete area. At its centre is a flower-adorned Karaga bearer, who channels the spirit of Draupadi, the warrior-goddess from the Mahabharata. We explore how the Thigala community, once caretakers of Bengaluru’s lakes and temple gardens, continue to uphold this tradition even as the city rapidly changes. We also trace the origins of the Karaga, its symbolic rituals like the Gange Puje, and its powerful gesture of interfaith harmony at the Tawakkal Mastan Dargah. Tune in to discover how this living ritual speaks to Bengaluru’s soul—its layered past, its inclusive spirit, and its resilience in the face of constant change. Credits Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Gorveck Thokchom, Kishor Mandal, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar. ಚೈತ್ರ ಮಾಸದ ಆಗಮನದೊಂದಿಗೆ ಬದಲಾಗುತ್ತಿರುವ ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು ನಗರವೂ, ನೂರಕ್ಕೆ ನೂರು ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮದಲ್ಲೂ ಹೊಸ ಆತಿಥೇಯರಾಗಿ ವರ್ಷಾ ರಾಮಚಂದ್ರ ಹಸ್ತಕ್ಷೇಪಿಸುವ ಮೂಲಕ ಹೊಸ ತಿರುವು ಪಡೆದಿದೆ. 2023ರಿಂದ ಈ ಸರಣಿಯು ಕನ್ನಡದ ಸಾಂಸ್ಕೃತಿಕ ಐಕಾನ್ಗಳನ್ನು ಸ್ಥಳೀಯರು ಹಾಗೂ ಕರ್ನಾಟಕವನ್ನು ತಮ್ಮ ಮನೆಮಾಡಿಕೊಂಡವರಿಗೆ ಪರಿಚಯಿಸುತ್ತ ಬಂದಿದೆ. ಈ ವಿಶೇಷ ಸಂಚಿಕೆಯಲ್ಲಿ, ಇತಿಹಾಸಕಾರ ಹಾಗೂ ಕಥೆಗಾರರಾದ ಧರ್ಮೇಂದ್ರಕುಮಾರ್ ಅರೇನಹಳ್ಳಿ ಅವರು ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು ಕರಗದ ಪಾರಂಪರಿಕ ಮಹತ್ವವನ್ನು ವಿವರಿಸುತ್ತಾರೆ. 1970ರ ದಶಕದ ಮೈಸೂರಿನಲ್ಲಿ ಬೆಳೆದ ಅವರು, ಕರಗದ ಕುರಿತು ಸಾಮಾಜಿಕ ಮಾಧ್ಯಮಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ಸಾಕಷ್ಟು ಜನಪ್ರಿಯ ವಿಡಿಯೋಗಳನ್ನು ಪ್ರಕಟಿಸಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ಮೂರು ಶತಮಾನಗಳಿಂದ ನಡೆಯುವ ಈ ಉತ್ಸವವು ಪೇಟೆ ಪ್ರದೇಶದ ಹೃದಯದಲ್ಲಿ, ದ್ರೌಪದಿಯನ್ನು ಆದಿಶಕ್ತಿಯಾಗಿ ಭಾವಿಸಿ, ತಿಗಳ ಸಮುದಾಯದ ಸಂಸ್ಕೃತಿಯ ಪ್ರತಿನಿಧಿಯಾಗಿ ಸಾಗುತ್ತದೆ. ಗಂಗಾ ಪೂಜೆ, ತವಕ್ಕಲ್ ಮಸ್ತಾನ್ ದರ್ಗಾದಲ್ಲಿ ಕಾಣುವ ಅಂತರ್ಧರ್ಮೀಯ ಸಹಿಷ್ಣುತೆ ಮತ್ತು ನಗರೀಕರಣದ ನಡುವೆ ಕರಗವು ಭೂಮಿ, ನೀರು, ನಂಬಿಕೆಗಳನ್ನು ನೆನೆಸುವ ಒಂದು ಸಾಂಸ್ಕೃತಿಕ ಸಂಚಲನೆಯಾಗಿ ಉಳಿದಿದೆ. ಬದಲಾಗುತ್ತಿರುವ ನಗರದ ಮಧ್ಯೆ, ಕರಗವು ನೆನಪಿನ ತಂತಿಗಳನ್ನು ಜೀವಂತವಾಗಿಟ್ಟುಕೊಳ್ಳುತ್ತದೆ. ವಿಶ್ವಾಸಪೂರ್ವಕ ನುಡಿಗಳು: ಅಕ್ಷಯ್ ರಾಮುಹಳ್ಳಿ, ಬಿಜೋಯ್ ವೇಣುಗೋಪಾಲ್, ಬ್ರೂಸ್ ಲೀ ಮಣಿ, ಗೋರ್ವೆಕ್ ತೊಕ್ಚೋಮ್, ಕಿಶೋರ್ ಮಂಡಲ್, ನಾರಾಯಣ ಕೃಷ್ಣಸ್ವಾಮಿ, ಪ್ರಶಾಂತ್ ವಾಸುದೇವನ್, ಸಾನಂದ ದಾಸ್‌ಗುಪ್ತ, ಸೀಮಾ ಸೇಠ್, ಶ್ರದ್ಧಾ ಗೌತಮ್, ಸುಪ್ರಿಯಾ ಜೋಶಿ ಮತ್ತು ವೇಲು ಶಂಕರ್.

In Unboxed — The Lightbulb in India, Sharmadip Basu and Proteep Mallik explore the history, science, and legacy of electric lighting in India, joined by guests Antara Das and Sunandan K.N. The electric lightbulb transformed human life, replacing natural cycles of light and darkness and extending human productivity beyond the workday. Early innovations such as Humphry Davy’s arc light (1802) and Warren de la Rue’s platinum filament bulb (1840) were impractical. In 1879, Thomas Edison and Joseph Swan developed longer-lasting carbon filament bulbs. By 1906, tungsten filaments became the standard, and later, argon gas was introduced to extend bulb life. Electric lighting arrived in India in 1879. By 1889, Kolkata had streetlights, and by 1899, its first power station. Mumbai saw electric lighting in 1882, but tungsten filament bulbs became common only by 1923. The Roy brothers helped establish India’s lighting industry with Bengal Lamps. Don’t miss Sunandan’s personal story of electricity reaching his Kerala village in the 1970’s—with an ironic twist! Heard the term social jet-lag? Antara, professor of biology at Azim Premji University, warns about the effects of prolonged exposure to artificial lighting, which disrupts circadian rhythms and affects sleep and health. Ironically, the future of light may eventually lie in darkness. Dark Sky Reserves, such as India’s Hanle Reserve in Ladakh, aim to reduce light pollution and preserve natural nightscapes. Tune in to another illuminating episode of Unboxed and don’t forget to catch up on other episodes in the series. Credits: Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Gorveck Thokchom, Kishor Mandal, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, Vaishnavi Ramanujam, and Velu Shankar

समुदाय की आवाज़ें | Voices from the Community आज का पत्र है पश्चिमी भारत के लिटल रण ऑफ कच्छ से। शहर और गाँव से मिलों दूर ये एक ऐसी जगह हैं जहा अगारिया समुदाय के लोग नमक की खेती करते हैं। हमारे देश का आधे से ज्यादा नमक यही से इनकी मेहनत से ही आता हैं। यह पत्र विमुक्त जनजाति के एक बुजुर्ग अगारिया का हैं जो मुजे पिछले दस सालों से जानते हैं। मैं एक स्टूडेंट के रूप मे उनको मिला था और बाद मे अपने स्टूडेंट्स को फील्ड के अनुभव के लिए उनके पास ले जाया करता था। इस खत के जरिए वो मेरी और उनकी जिंदगी मे इन सालों मे आए बदलाव की बात कर रहे हैं। हमारे संपर्क के एकतरफ़े रुख से अपनी नाराज़गी जताकर वो इस खत मे उन सभी लोगों से सवाल कर रहे हैं जो समय-समय पर उनके पास जाकर उनसे सवाल पूछते रहे, उनकी कहानिया सुनते रहे, और उनके जीवन के आंकड़ों को लिखते रहे, लेकिन जो कभी वापस नहीं आए – न ही उनकी खबर पूछने आए या ना ही बदलाव की कोई खबर लेकर आए । आइए, सुनते हैं डांट, दर्द, और चाहभरी उनकी दास्तान जिनकी मेहनत से बना नमक हमारे खाने मे स्वाद लाता हैं । - मयूर त्रिवेदी _ In this powerful episode, an Agariya elder from the Little Rann of Kutch shares his frustration with researchers and students who visit his community, collect stories, and then disappear—never returning with news of change. The Agariyas, who produce over half of India’s salt, continue to toil in harsh conditions, earning mere paise per kilo while facing new challenges: government restrictions on their ancestral lands and climate shifts affecting salt production. Through immersive storytelling, the elder’s letter demands accountability, questioning why those who study them never stand by them in times of crisis. “We don’t want to be mere statistics or stories anymore,” he writes. His plea challenges listeners to rethink their role—not just as observers, but as allies in the fight for justice. This episode asks a crucial question: How long will marginalised communities remain subjects of study rather than active participants in shaping their own futures? CREDITS Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Gorveck Thokchom, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Agariya elder voiced by Sanjay Galsar

प्रोफेसर होने के नाते अक्सर युवा, विशेष रूप से '20’s' के लोगों से मेरी गहरी बातचीत होती रहती है। ज्यादातर बच्चे पास में ही चले जाते हैं, कुछ लंबे अरस तक टच में रहते हैं और समय-समय पर जिंदगी के सबक भी शेयर करते हैं। इन एक्स बच्चों की बातें मुझे सबसे ज्यादा आकर्षित करती हैं क्योंकि इनमे मार्क्स, असाइनमेंट और पाठ्यक्रम से ऊपर जीवन की सच्चाई सबसे ज्यादा होती हैं। ऐसी ही एक खास 'लास्ट बेंचर' से आज मुझे एक कहानी मिलती है। दस साल पहले जब वो मेरी दुकान थी तब सब्जेक्ट्स में रुचि नहीं थी। हा, मगर हमारे बीच बातें बहुत होती रहती थीं। आज वो बता रहे हैं पढ़ाई के समय किताबी लीज वाले उन कॉन्सेप्ट्स ने कैसे अपनी खुद की जिंदगी में मायने पाए। 'अनकही आवाजें' में सुनिए शादी और परिवार को लेकर एक युवा, स्वतंत्र, जिम्मेदार महिला की ये कहानी, वही की प्यारी। - मयूर त्रिवेदी — In this deeply personal episode of Likhe Jo Khat Mujhe with Mayur Trivedi, titled Ankahi Awaazein (Unspoken Voices), a former student, Shreya, reconnects with her professor after a decade, sharing a heartfelt reflection on how the lessons from his demography and health economics classes have unexpectedly shaped her understanding of life. Through a recorded letter, she narrates her quiet struggle with infertility, the weight of societal expectations, and the unspoken emotional toll of reproductive choices. Once a self-proclaimed “last bencher,” Shreya remembers feeling detached from discussions about population, opportunity costs, and reproductive autonomy. At the time, those concepts seemed distant from her vibrant college life, filled with friendships, love, and a sense of limitless possibilities. Years later, after an eight-year relationship, four years of marriage, and an exhausting journey through IVF, Shreya sees those lessons in an entirely different light. Carefully made choices—waiting for family approval, planning responsibly—have led to an unforeseen reality: a long, painful wait for motherhood. CREDITS Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Gorveck Thokchom, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar To know Shreya’s full story, listen to the episode and read more on our website.

Mirza Ghalib, one of Urdu’s greatest poets, masterfully wove metaphysical reflections into his verse, questioning the nature of reality, existence, and perception. On the occasion of his 156th death anniversary, we revisit his poetry through a selection of verses from Yun Hota Toh Kya Hota: The World of Ghalib, a six-part series presented by Amit Basole, a poetry aficionado and faculty in economics at Azim Premji University. Ghalib’s poetry often challenges our understanding of the visible and the hidden, suggesting that what appears before us may, in fact, conceal a deeper truth. One of his celebrated verses plays with paradoxes, exploring the idea that ultimate reality is hidden in plain sight. Through close readings, this episode unpacks such layered meanings, drawing connections to philosophical traditions and his poetic predecessors. We also examine Ghalib’s playful yet profound manipulation of language, which reflects on existence and divinity with deceptive simplicity. Whether through paradox, wordplay, or existential musings, Ghalib’s poetry remains an endless source of interpretation and wonder—an invitation to look beyond the obvious and glimpse the hidden truths of the universe. Amit Basole explains three Ghalib poems in this bonus episode. If you enjoyed these excerpts, you’ll find more to love as you explore the series on Radio Azim Premji University. Credits Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Gorveck Thokchom, Kishor Mandal, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar

बचपन में जिन माँ-बाप की बातें पत्थर की लकीर लगती थीं, बड़े होकर उन्हीं से असहमति होने लगती है। विचारों की यह खाई अकादमिक दुनिया से जुड़े लोगों के लिए और गहरी हो जाती है, जब उनके सिद्धांत घर की हकीकत से टकराते हैं। “दिल की आवाज़ें” एपिसोड में एक माँ अपने बेटे—जो जेंडर स्टडीज के प्रोफेसर हैं—से अपने जीवन के संघर्ष साझा करती हैं। वह बताती हैं कि समाज की पहचान केवल किताबों से नहीं, बल्कि जीवन के अनुभवों से भी बनती है। माँ की बातों में एक हल्का-सा उलाहना भी है—“तुम पढ़कर जेंडर सिखाते हो, हम जीकर सीखते हैं। शायद मेरी ज़िंदगी के नोट्स तुम्हारी क्लासरूम में काम आएं।” बड़ा होने के साथ-साथ हम अपने माता-पिता को सुनना कम कर देते हैं, जिससे वे धीरे-धीरे चुप हो जाते हैं। लेकिन इस एपिसोड में, एक माँ यह चुप्पी तोड़ती हैं—प्यार, फिक्र और समझ के साथ। सुनिए “दिल की आवाज़ें”, “लिखे जो खत मुझे” के एपिसोड 3 में, सिर्फ़ रेडियो अज़ीम प्रेमजी यूनिवर्सिटी पर। ____________ In Dil Ki Awaazein (Sounds of the Heart), a mother shares her struggles with her son, a gender studies professor, offering a personal perspective on societal identity. She highlights the gap between academic theories and lived realities, reminding him, “You study gender; we women live it.” As children grow, they often stop listening to their parents, silencing them unintentionally. In this poignant episode, the mother breaks that silence—chiding yet understanding. She urges her son to keep learning, just as she continues to evolve. Listen to Episode 3 of Likhe Jo Khat Mujhe on Radio Azim Premji University. CREDITS Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Gorveck Thokchom, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar Mother voiced by M Joshi Himani

नमस्कार। हमारे रिसर्च के काम मैं एक एथ्नोग्राफी नाम की पद्धति हैं जिस मे रिसर्चर किसी एक समुदाय के लोगों के जीवन को समझने के लिए उन लोगों के बीच जाकर उन्हीं की तरह जीता हैं, और उन निजी अनुभवों से अपने निष्कर्ष निकालता है। मेरा ऐसा एक काम मुजे गीर फॉरेस्ट ले गया जहां सदियों से इंसान और उनके मवेशी Asiatic Lions के साथ शहर-गाँव से दूर जंगल की बीचोंबीच रहेते हैं। उन मालधारी समुदाय के साथ रह के मैंने ये जाना की शहर से दूर प्रकृति के साथ जीने वाले वनवासी लोग अपने जीवन के निर्णय कैसी कैसी मान्यताओं, जरूरतों, अनुभवों या मूल्यों के आधार पर लेते हैं। ‘जंगल की आवाजे’ नाम के इस एपिसोड मे सुनिए गीर नेशनल पार्क के भीतर से भिखाभाई मालधारी का एक पत्र जिसमे वो मुजे पॉपुलेशन कंट्रोल, सन परेफ़रस, और बेटी बचाओ के बारे मे अपने खयालात बता रहे हैं। — मयूर त्रिवेदी ______ The Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (Save Daughters, Educate Daughters) campaign by the Government of India aims to address the issue of the declining child sex ratio. However, implementing such well-meaning initiatives often runs into resistance among communities where traditions and livelihoods are deeply intertwined. To truly understand their opposition to these programmes, one must be intimately sensitive to the everyday lives of these communities. In this episode of Likhe Jo Khat Mujhe, host Mayur Trivedi, a public health researcher who teaches at Azim Premji University, Bhopal, shares a heartfelt fictional letter from Bhikhabhai, a Maldhari shepherd who lives in the Gir Forest. Bhikhabhai recounts his interactions with the researcher, who had spent time with him and his community during an ethnographic field visit. Unlike other researchers, who kept their distance from the subjects of their fieldwork, this person had lived among the Maldhari people, sharing their meals and witnessing their daily struggles. This exchange left a lasting impression on Bhikhabhai, who pondered over the researcher’s advice to him about his preference for sons over daughters. In his letter to the researcher, Bhikhabhai reflects on this sensitive issue, which is rooted in the unique challenges of his jungle-based lifestyle. He explains how their survival depends on cattle, community ties, and traditional roles. In his pastoral community, having a son is not viewed as a rejection of daughters, but a necessity to ensure economic continuity, care in old age, and social acceptance. In Junglon Ki Awaazein, Mayur Trivedi invites listeners of Likhe Jo Khat Mujhe to reflect on their inherent cultural biases and blind spots, and reexamine how the life choices of remote communities are often determined by necessity rather than intent. CREDITS Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Maldhari shepherd voiced by Gopal Hari Visit our website for more information: https://azimpremjiuniversity.edu.in/radio-azim-premji-university

'सड़कों की आवाज़ें' शुरुआती दिनों मे एक यंग एनेरजेटिक पब्लिक हेल्थ रिसर्चर के रूप में मैं लोगों को तंबाकू छोड़ने के लिए कहता रहता था। ‘भारत मे तंबाकू से संबंधित बीमारियों से हर दिन 2000-3000 लोग लोग मरते हैं। ‘पैकेट में मौत लिखी है वाली अक्षय कुमार की ऐड नहीं देखी?’ वगेरे वगेरे। फिर मैं 30-35 साल के कैब ड्राइवर रमेश को मिला। क्यूंकी ड्राइवर लोगों मे तंबाकू का उपयोग बहुत आम है, मैं तंबाकू के बारे मैं रमेश को बताता गया और वो दिन रात सड़कों पर अपनी टेकसी चलाते चलाते मुजे चुपचाप सुनता गया । रोजाना मिलों का सफर तय करने वाले रमेश ने एक दिन अपने भीतर की यात्रा की, और हिम्मत जुटा कर मुझे अपने मन की बात कह दी। ''सड़कों की आवाज़ें' नाम के इस एपिसोड में आइए रमेश के तंबाकू छोड़ने के दिलचस्प दृष्टिकोण को उसी की जबान मे सुनते हैं। __ “I’m off now, wherever the road takes me…” As a young and spirited public health researcher, the presenter urged people to quit tobacco. And then he met Ramesh, a cab driver in his mid-thirties, who listened to him quietly as he drove the researcher around on his field visits. In answer to the social worker’s long sermons on the ill effects of tobacco, Ramesh said nothing. One day, unexpectedly, the researcher receives a notification on his phone. It is a long message, in Hindi, from Ramesh. The cab driver politely speaks his mind and opens his heart in a way that makes the researcher think, and consider the question deeply. “Professor Saab, you might think I chew tobacco out of habit or for fun. But no, it’s not like that. It helps me work. I have to drive for hours, day and night. You guests rest in the back after your meals, but I have to stay alert to get you home safely. When one is alone and has to stay awake, one needs some company. It keeps us going…” Ramesh appears to be defending his tobacco habit, but in actuality he is uncovering the hard life of a daily wage earner who toils to make ends meet, and has to withstand numerous societal challenges every day. More so, it shines a light on the public healthcare system that makes little effort to prevent tobacco consumption but wakes up only when a user falls ill. “If society or the government really wanted us to quit, they’d make it harder to access tobacco, wouldn’t they?” Ramesh asks. “But no, it’s available everywhere. Every other shop sells it alongside biscuits, hair oil, and shampoo. It’s cheaper than tea.” What do you feel after listening to Ramesh’s letter? Drop us a note with your thoughts. CREDITS Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Taxi driver voiced by Sanjay Chauhan —— Chapters: 0:00:00 - Introduction - Sadakon Ki Awaazein 0:01:19 - A Public Health Researcher Reflects 0:02:35 - Meet Ramesh, the taxi driver 0:03:49 - Ramesh’s Message 0:04:59 - Tobacco Addiction Since Childhood 0:06:19 - Struggles To Quit Tobacco 0:09:15 - Outro 0:10:00 - Epilogue

November 26 is Constitution Day in India. It also marks the first anniversary of Samvidhaani Pitaara presented by Vineet KKN Panchhi. Our sixth episode is a special celebration of music that echoes our mission to know our rights, and to stand up for them. When speech is throttled, only music has the power to dispel silence. That is why Jaagte Raho is no mere music playlist; it is a representation of emotions that constitute the heartbeat of our nation, the bedrock of our constitutional values. This meaningful selection of songs weaves a narrative of resistance, hope, and the quest for justice across diverse cultural landscapes. Tu Zinda Hai is a rousing anthem from the 1974 Hindi film Shaheed. Written by Shailendra with music by Salil Chowdhury, it celebrates the resilience of freedom fighters during India’s independence struggle, blending optimism with revolutionary fervour. Enjoy Enjaami, a viral track by Tamil rapper and social justice activist Arivu blending rap, folk, and Oppari (a traditional song of mourning), sings of ancestral connection and the exploitation of landless labourers. With its poignant lines and striking composition by Santhosh Narayanan, it critiques systemic inequities while reclaiming heritage. Hum Dekhenge, penned by Faiz Ahmed Faiz, is a timeless anthem for justice and revolution. Sung by Iqbal Bano in defiance of dictatorship, its call for justice and the downfall of tyranny has become an enduring anthem for protest movements worldwide. The playlist features two songs by Indian Ocean, resonating with lead singer and bassist Rahul Ram’s social and environmental activism. Cheetu is composed in honour of pre-Independence tribal activist and freedom fighter Cheetu Bhil, whose home was usurped and made into a prison. Hille Le is the band’s rendition of a protest song penned by activist Gorakh Pandey. Iraade Kar Buland, performed by the Delhi collective Manzil Mystics, exhorts listeners to embrace their dreams, echoing Kamla Bhasin’s poetic call for liberation. Meanwhile, T.M. Krishna’s Poromboke Paadal critiques environmental degradation, challenging society’s neglect of shared natural resources. Hey Samalo Dhan is a fiery Bengali protest song composed by Salil Chowdhury during the Tebhaga rebellion of the 1940s, where farmers fought for fair sharecropping rights. Echoing a similar sentiment is Gaon Chhorab Nehi, a song of bonding with the earth sung in protest by Adivasi people who resist being displaced from their ancestral lands. In tradition, Jaagte Raho is the cry of the night watchman, urging us to stay vigilant even as our eyes droop with slumber. In that vein, these songs, interspersed with messages from the artists, remind us of the values we need to cherish as citizens to keep the fabric of our nation from fraying. Enjoy Jaagte Raho, and uphold the Constitution of India. Jai Hind! Credits: Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Gorveck Thokchom, Harsh Gupta, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar Visit our website for a playlist and more resources

Guess what screams through the air at a whopping 565 km per hour? Not a peregrine falcon. Not a bullet train. Not even a Bugatti on the freeway. It’s a shuttlecock flying off the racquet of an Indian champion who set the Guinness record for the fastest smash. In ‘Net-Net’, episode 4 of Economies of Khel, economist Rahul De and media studies expert Kailash Koushik analyse the curious subculture and economic currents shaping one of India’s most cherished sports. They explore how badminton has woven itself into the social fabric of India. For a sport that began in India as a British colonial import confined to Gymkhana clubs, badminton’s undemanding nature and accessibility helped it to permeate Indian society, carving out a special niche within middle-class neighbourhoods . It became one of the few sports where men and women could play side-by-side, offering a rare space for co-ed interaction in a conservative society. Kailash reflects on how, in these humble settings, badminton was almost like a cup of coffee—casual, accessible, and refreshingly uncompetitive, often played just to enjoy each other’s company. For Rahul De, the rise of badminton in India can be viewed in two distinct eras: before and after Pullela Gopichand. The former national champion and celebrated coach established the Gopichand Academy in Hyderabad, a powerhouse that has produced champions like Saina Nehwal and PV Sindhu. Besides nurturing elite athletes, his academy has propelled the sport into the national consciousness, inspiring a new generation and sparking a surge in badminton courts and academies across the country. In “Net-Net” we dig into the marketing personas crafted around Indian badminton stars, with Saina’s relatable small-town charm contrasting Sindhu’s high-gloss, urban image. These branding strategies offer a peek into badminton’s dual identity in India, balancing grassroots appeal with a rising, elite-driven professional presence. Today, it’s hard to find a place in India where badminton is not played. Of course, if you tend to feel claustrophobic inside an indoor court, you can always step outside and enjoy a game of AirBadminton with a specially designed wind-resistant shuttle! Intrigued? You have to listen to the episode for the rest. Tune in to unpack the fascinating layers of badminton in India. Credits Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar For additional resources, please visit our website: https://azimpremjiuniversity.edu.in/economies-of-khel/net-net-smashingly-curious-about-badminton

In this special edition of Noorakke Nooru Karnataka in observance of Karnataka Rajyotsava, we celebrate Karnataka’s rich musical heritage with a selection of old classics and contemporary favourites. Hosted by Shraddha and peppered with special messages from the artists, Kannada Geetamale embodies the spirit of Kannada. This playlist of eleven soulful tracks span decades and emotions, showcasing the beauty of our language and the diversity of our people. As we commemorate Karnataka Rajyotsava, let’s embrace the inclusivity, warmth, and resilience that define Karnataka’s spirit. May our music, language, and culture continue to thrive. Jai Karnataka! Acknowledgements: Raghavendra Herle for Kannada translation Shridevi Kalasad for research and compilation Credits Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar. ಕನ್ನಡ ಗೀತಮಾಲೆ ‘ನೂರಕ್ಕೆ ನೂರು ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ’ ದ ಈ ಒಂದು ವಿಶೇಷ ಸಂಚಿಕೆಯನ್ನು , ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ ರಾಜ್ಯೋತ್ಸವದ ಅಂಗವಾಗಿ ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದ ಶ್ರೀಮಂತ ಸಂಗೀತ ಪರಂಪರೆಯನ್ನು ಪ್ರತಿಬಿಂಬಿಸುವ ಹಳೆಯ ಮಧುರವಾದ ಶಾಸ್ತ್ರೀಯ ಹಾಡುಗಳು ಮತ್ತು ಸಮಕಾಲೀನ ಅಚ್ಚುಮೆಚ್ಚಿನ ಗೀತೆಗಳನ್ನು ಒಳಗೊಂಡ ಕನ್ನಡ ಗೀತಮಾಲೆಯನ್ನು ಪ್ರಸ್ತುತಪಡಿಸುವ ಮೂಲಕ ಆಚರಿಸುತ್ತಿದ್ದೇವೆ. ಈ ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮವನ್ನು ಶ್ರದ್ಧಾ ಅವರು ಕಲಾವಿದರ/ಕಲಾಕಾರರ ವಿಶೇಷವಾದ ಸಂದೇಶಗಳೊಂದಿಗೆ ರುಚಿಕಟ್ಟಾಗಿ ನಡೆಸಿಕೊಡಲಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ಕನ್ನಡ ಗೀತೆಮಾಲೆ ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮವು ಕನ್ನಡ ಸ್ಫೂರ್ತಿಯನ್ನು ಸಾಕಾರಗೊಳಿಸುವಂತಹ ಹನ್ನೊಂದು ಹಾಡುಗಳ ಮೂಲಕ ಪ್ರಸ್ತುತವಾಗಲಿದ್ದು ಈ ಭಾವಪೂರ್ಣವಾದ ಹತ್ತು ಹಾಡುಗಳು ದಶಕಗಳ ವ್ಯಾಪ್ತಿಯನ್ನು ಹೊಂದಿದ್ದು ಭಾವನಾತ್ಮಕವಾಗಿ ನಮ್ಮನ್ನು ಬೆಸೆಯುತ್ತವೆ. ಜೊತೆಗೆ ಇವು ನಮ್ಮ ಭಾಷೆಯಸೌಂದರ್ಯ ಮತ್ತು ಜನತೆಯ ವೈವಿಧ್ಯಮಯ ಬದುಕನ್ನು ಅನಾವರಣಗೊಳಿಸುತ್ತವೆ. ಕನ್ನಡದ ಜೀವಸ್ವರವೆಂದೇ ಮಾನ್ಯರಾದ ಎಸ್.ಪಿ. ಬಾಲಸುಬ್ರಹ್ಮಣ್ಯಂ ಮತ್ತು ಕವಿತಾ ಕೃಷ್ಣಮೂರ್ತಿ ಮುಂತಾದಗಾಯಕ ಶ್ರೇಷ್ಠರಿಂದ ಮೊದಲ್ಗೊಂಡು ಯುವ ಮನಸ್ಸನ್ನು ಸಂಚಲನಗೊಳಿಸುವ ಮೈಸೂರು ಎಕ್ಸ್ ಪ್ರೆಸ್ ನ ನಮ್ಮೂರುವರೆಗೆ, ಪೀಪಲ್ ಟ್ರೀಯವರ ಚೈತನ್ಯದಾಯಿಯಾದ ಜನಪದ ಮತ್ತು ರಾಕ್ ಶೈಲಿಯ ತಾನಿ ತಂದಾನಾ ದವರೆಗೆ ಪ್ರತಿಯೊಂದು ಹಾಡೂ ತನ್ನ ಅನನ್ಯತೆಯಿಂದ ನಮ್ಮ ನಾಡಿಗೆ ಗೌರವ ಸಮರ್ಪಣೆ ಸಲ್ಲಿಸುತ್ತದೆ. ಜಿ. ಪಿ. ರಾಜರತ್ನಂ ಅವರ ಮಕ್ಕಳ ಕವಿತೆಗಳಿಗೆ ಜೀವಂತಿಕೆ ತಂದುಕೊಟ್ಟ ಕಸ್ತೂರಿ ಎಂಬ ತುತ್ತೂರಿಯ ಹುಡುಗನ‘ಬಣ್ಣದ ತಗಡಿನ ತುತ್ತೂರಿ’ಯಂತಹ ಕಾಲಾತೀತವಾದ ಗೀತರಚನೆಗಳಿಂದ ಹಿಡಿದು ಇಮಾಂಸಾಬ್ ವಾಲ್ಲೇಪ್ಪನವರ್ಅವರು ಹಾಡಿ ಲೋಕಪ್ರಿಯಗೊಳಿಸಿದ ನಮ್ಮೆಲ್ಲರ ನೆಚ್ಚಿನ ಸೂಫಿ ಪಂಥದ ಕವಿ ಶಿಶುನಾಳ ಶರೀಫರ ಡೊಳ್ಳಿನ ಪದಶೈಲಿಯ ಆಧ್ಯಾತ್ಮಿಕ ತತ್ತ್ವಪದವಾದ ‘ಗುಡಿಯ ನೋಡಿರಣ್ಣ’ದವರೆಗಿನ ಹಾಡುಗಳನ್ನು ಇಲ್ಲಿ ಕೇಳಬಹುದಾಗಿದೆ. ‘ಭಕ್ತಿ ರಿಪಬ್ಲಿಕ್’ ನ ಶ್ರೋತ್ರುಗಳಿಗೆ ವಚನಕಟ್ಟೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ಚಿರಪರಿಚಿತವಾಗಿರುವ ಎಮ್. ಡಿ. ಪಲ್ಲವಿ ಮತ್ತು ಬ್ರೂಸ್ ಲೀಮಣಿ ಅವರು ಹಾಡಿರುವ ಗೀತೆಗಳನ್ನು ಇಲ್ಲಿ ಆಲಿಸಲು ಅವಕಾಶವಿದೆ. ಜೊತೆಗೆ ಸಹಜವಾಗಿಯೇ ಸಾರ್ವಕಾಲಿಕವಾಗಿಕನ್ನಡಿಗರೆಲ್ಲರನ್ನೂ ಏಕತ್ರಗೊಳಿಸುವ ರಾಷ್ಟ್ರಕವಿ ಕುವೆಂಪು ವಿರಚಿತ ಮತ್ತು ಅವರ ಪುತ್ರ ಪೂರ್ಣಚಂದ್ರತೇಜಸ್ವಿಯವರಿಂದ ಸಂಗೀತ ಸಂಯೋಜಿಸಲ್ಪಟ್ಟ ‘ಬಾರಿಸು ಕನ್ನಡ ಡಿಂಡಿಮವಾ’ ಗೀತೆಯನ್ನೂ ಸವಿಯಬಹುದಾಗಿದೆ. ಈ ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ ರಾಜ್ಯೋತ್ಸವವನ್ನು ನಾವು ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದ ಸ್ಫೂರ್ತಿಶಕ್ತಿಯನ್ನು ನಿರೂಪಿಸುವ ಎಲ್ಲರನ್ನೂ ಒಳಗೊಳ್ಳುವ, ಬೆಚ್ಚನೆಯ ಮಡಿಲಿನ ಆಸರೆಗೆ ಇಂಬು ನೀಡುವ, ನಮನೀಯ ದೃಷ್ಟಿಯ, ಪರಸ್ಪರ ಸಾಮರಸ್ಯದಿಂದ ಕೂಡಿದಅಪ್ಪುಗೆಯ ಭಾವದಿಂದ ಸಂಭ್ರಮಿಸುತ್ತಾ ಅವಿಸ್ಮರಣೀಯಗೊಳಿಸೋಣ. ನಮ್ಮ ಸಂಗೀತ, ಭಾಷೆ ಮತ್ತುಸಂಸ್ಕೃತಿಗಳು ನಿರಂತರವಾಗಿ ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿ ಹೊಂದಿ ನೂರ್ಕಾಲ ಬಾಳಲಿ. ಜೈ ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ! ಕೃತಜ್ಞತೆ : ಸಂಶೋಧನೆ ಮತ್ತು ಸಂಕಲನದ ಕಾರ್ಯಗಳಿಗಾಗಿ ಶ್ರೀದೇವಿ ಕಲಾಸದ್ ಅವರಿಗೆ. ವಿಶ್ವಾಸಪೂರ್ವಕ ನುಡಿಗಳು : ಅಕ್ಷಯ್ ರಾಮುಹಳ್ಳಿ, ಬಿಜೋಯ್ ವೇಣುಗೋಪಾಲ್, ಬ್ರೂಸ್ ಲೀ ಮಣಿ, ನಾರಾಯಣ ಕೃಷ್ಣ ಸ್ವಾಮಿ, ಪ್ರಶಾಂತ್ ವಾಸುದೇವನ್, ಸಾನಂದ ದಾಸ್ ಗುಪ್ತ, ಸೀಮಾ ಸೇಠ್, ಶ್ರದ್ಧಾ ಗೌತಮ್, ಸುಪ್ರಿಯಾ ಜೋಶಿ ಮತ್ತು ವೇಲು ಶಂಕರ್ For detailed notes and other information, visit our website:

In this series finale of Bhakti Republic, host Amit Basole explores the vibrant tradition of Krishna Bhakti with historian Varuni Bhatia. Krishna Bhakti, known for its focus on Krishna’s playful and youthful persona, has long been a cornerstone of devotion in regions like Brindavan, where his divine pastimes with Radha are revered. The episode explores the unique aspects of this devotional movement, including its emphasis on prema rasa—the essence of pure love that drives followers to renounce worldly attachments. Varuni traces how Chaitanya, a 15th-century mystic, transformed Brindavan into a spiritual realm and how Krishna Bhakti spread across India, attracting devotees from all social backgrounds. Through stories of poet-saints like Meerabai and Surdas, alongside lesser-known figures such as Ras Khan and Taj Begum, Amit and Varuni reveal the inclusive and democratic nature of Krishna Bhakti. With devotion transcending societal boundaries, this episode invites listeners to experience the deeply personal and spiritual relationship that has sustained Krishna’s followers for centuries, rooted in love, surrender, and timeless reverence. Credits Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Gorveck Thokchom, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar. Visit our website for more information, acknowledgements, and additional resources: https://azimpremjiuniversity.edu.in/bhakti-republic-with-amit-basole/on-the-banks-of-the-yamuna-the-saga-of-krishna-bhakti

Featured in The Stream - Edition 3, October 17, 2024 Shows and Episodes: The India Project with Josy Joseph - Indore Almost Perfect - 200 metres from Glory - Rita Gombu Marwah Stories of Change - Snehadhara Well Caught - Spinning Through The Seventies Original Music and Soundtracks: 1. Amhi Vaarika Vaarika 2. River Song by Bhatiyali singers 3. Acha Shiva Aikyange - Kayakave Kailasa - Music for Bhakti Republic by MD Pallavi and Bruce Lee Mani 4. Halpudi Haadu - the Tooth Powder Song 5. Prema Pisey Credits: Student team: Aashi Chheda, Hitika Gilhotra, Kinshuk Ghosh Radio APU is brought to you by: Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Gorveck Thokchom, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar

Laishram Sarita Devi’s journey from the insurgency-affected streets of Manipur to the international boxing arena is one of defiance, resilience, and hard-earned success. After the tragic loss of her father, a young Sarita was tempted to join the insurgency, even transporting weapons for militants. But before she could lose herself to that life, her brother intervened, steering her toward sports. Sarita initially took out her frustration in taekwondo before transitioning to boxing under the guidance of coach Ibomcha Singh. This shift didn’t just save her—it ignited a passion for boxing and a dream to represent India. Her rise began in 2005, with a bronze at the World Championships in Podolsk, Russia. Just a year later, she clinched gold in New Delhi. Over the years, she added five Asian titles and a Commonwealth Games silver to her name, becoming a versatile and dominant figure in the sport. At a time when financial struggles plagued her family, her victories also secured a stable job with the Manipur Police, giving her the security to continue boxing. The defining moment of her career came during the 2014 Asian Games, where she controversially lost a semifinal bout to South Korea’s Park Ji-Na, despite a dominant performance. In protest of what she saw as biased judging, Sarita refused to accept her bronze medal, attempting to place it around Park’s neck. Her defiant stand drew condemnation from officials, leading to a one-year ban, but it also sparked conversations about fairness in sports. The fallout strained her relationship with fellow boxer Mary Kom, whose gold medal that day was overshadowed by Sarita’s protest. Despite this, Sarita’s courage turned her into a symbol of integrity, inspiring a generation of athletes, even as her own career dimmed in the years that followed. At the end of this episode of Almost Perfect, our series about women athletes who competed alongside the best but faded from the spotlight, Sarita Devi shares a special message for Indian youth. This show is produced by Confluence Media for Radio Azim Premji University. Credits: Achie Humtsoe, Anisa Draboo, Gautam Datt, Jasleen Bhalla, Josy Joseph, Omair Farooq, and Siddhartha Mishra Radio Azim Premji University: Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar For a comprehensive list of acknowledgments and resources, please visit our website: https://azimpremjiuniversity.edu.in/almost-perfect-stories-of-forgotten-indian-women-athletes-2

Over the past two decades, running in India has transformed from a niche pursuit to a mainstream phenomenon, driven by rising fitness awareness, social influencers, and dedicated running communities. This evolution began in the late 2000s, when tech professionals returning to cities like Bengaluru from the USA brought with them the enthusiasm for long-distance running, a trend that had already gained popularity in the West. In Bengaluru, communities like the Hashhouse Harriers and pioneers such as Kodavathi Pani played a key role in making running accessible and organised. As interest grew, running blossomed into both a passion sport and a profitable industry. International sports brands recognised the market potential, sponsoring marathons and promoting their products through running clubs. Corporate sponsors also encouraged employee participation in fitness events, further fueling the sport’s growth. The rise of digital platforms enabled running influencers and coaches to gain significant followings, turning running into a viable career for many. Today, running in India thrives, with marathons, half-marathons, and even “runcations” becoming commonplace. Arvind Bharathi led India’s first running club, Runners for Life, for over a decade, helping bridge the gap between amateur and serious runners. In Run Bhoomi, the third episode of Economies of Khel, Arvind joins hosts Rahul De and Kailash Koushik to share insights, tracing the passion, culture, and business that have shaped running into a cultural phenomenon in India that blends fitness, community, and commerce. Credits Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar Discover more on our website:

Episode 4 of Noorakke Nooru Karnataka focuses on the revered Kannada writer D V Gundappa (DVG). Bengaluru-based scholar Shashi Kiran B N, a contributing editor of Prekshaa and an award-winning Sanskrit scholar, joins the hosts to discuss DVG’s profound contributions. Born in 1887, DVG was largely self-taught, mastering multiple languages and gaining deep knowledge in Vedic literature and Western philosophy. His celebrated works, particularly Mankuthimmanna Kagga and Marula Muniyana Kagga, distill complex ideas into simple reflections on life. Known for his humility, DVG referred to himself as a publisher rather than the author of these timeless meditations. DVG’s influence remains strong through his writings and ideals, which continue to inspire generations. ಡಿವಿಜಿ - ಕನ್ನಡಿಗರು ಪ್ರೀತಿಸುವ ಕಗ್ಗಗಳ ಹಿಂದಿರುವ ಅಸಾಧಾರಣ ವ್ಯಕ್ತಿ ಸುಧೀಶ್ ವೆಂಕಟೇಶ್ ಅವರೊಂದಿಗೆ ಶ್ರದ್ಧಾ ಜೈನ್ ಪ್ರಸ್ತುತಪಡಿಸಿದಸಂಚಿಕೆ-4 ರ ಈ ವಿಷಯವು ಕನ್ನಡದ ಮೇರು ಸಾಹಿತಿ ಡಿ ವಿಗುಂಡಪ್ಪನವರನ್ನು ಕೇಂದ್ರೀಕರಿಸಿದೆ. ಡಿವಿಜಿ ಎಂದೇಖ್ಯಾತನಾಮರಾಗಿರುವ ಇವರು ಕನ್ನಡ ಸಾಹಿತ್ಯ, ತತ್ವಶಾಸ್ತ್ರ, ಪತ್ರಿಕೋದ್ಯಮ ಮತ್ತು ಸಾರ್ವಜನಿಕ ಸೇವೆ ಕುರಿತು ಪಾರಂಗತ‌ರಾಗಿದ್ದರು.ಕಗ್ಗಗಳ ಮೂಲಕ ಕನ್ನಡ ಕಾವ್ಯಲೋಕವನ್ನು ವಿಶಿಷ್ಟವಾಗಿ ಕಟ್ಟಿಕೊಟ್ಟರು.ಇಂಥ ಮಹಾನುಭಾವರ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ತಮ್ಮ ಒಳನೋಟಗಳನ್ನು ಈ ಸರಣಿಯಲ್ಲಿಹಂಚಿಕೊಂಡಿದ್ದಾರೆ ವೃತ್ತಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ಮೆಕ್ಯಾನಿಕಲ್ ಎಜಿನಿಯರ್‌ ಆಗಿರುವಮತ್ತು ಪ್ರವೃತ್ತಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ಅನುವಾದಕರಾಗಿರುವ ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು ಮೂಲದವಿದ್ವಾಂಸ ಶಶಿ ಕಿರಣ್ ಬಿ. ಎನ್. ಇವರು ಸಂಸ್ಕೃತದಲ್ಲಿಸೌಂದರ್ಯಶಾಸ್ತ್ರದ ಕುರಿತು ಪದವಿ ಪಡೆದ್ದಾರೆ. ಭಾರತೀಯ ಸಂಸ್ಕೃತಿಮತ್ತು ತತ್ವಶಾಸ್ತ್ರಕ್ಕೆ ಸಂಬಂಧಿಸಿದ ಆನ್‌ಲೈನ್ ಜರ್ನಲ್ “ಪ್ರೇಕ್ಷಾ”ದಸಂಪಾದಕರೂ ಆಗಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ಸಂಸ್ಕೃತ ಅನುವಾದಕ್ಕಾಗಿ ಇವರಿಗೆ ಸಾಹಿತ್ಯಅಕಾಡೆಮಿ ಅನುವಾದ ಪ್ರಶಸ್ತಿ (2021) ಮತ್ತು ಬನ್ನಂಜೆಗೋವಿಂದಾಚಾರ್ಯ ಪ್ರಶಸ್ತಿ (2023)ಗಳು ಲಭಿಸಿವೆ. ಅಲ್ಲದೇ, ಡಿವಿಜಿಸಾರ-ಸಂಗ್ರಹ ಮತ್ತು ಡಿ ವಿ ಗುಂಡಪ್ಪ ಅವರ ಆಯ್ದ ಬರಹಗಳುಸೇರಿದಂತೆ ಅವರ ಕೆಲ ಕೃತಿಗಳನ್ನು ಸಂಪಾದಿಸಿದ್ದಾರೆ. 1887ರ ಮಾರ್ಚ್ 17 ರಂದು ಜನಿಸಿದ ಡಿವಿಜಿ ಅವರು ವೈದಿಕ ಸಾಹಿತ್ಯ, ಪಾಶ್ಚಿಮಾತ್ಯ ತತ್ವಶಾಸ್ತ್ರ ಮತ್ತು ರಾಜ್ಯಶಾಸ್ತ್ರದಲ್ಲಿ ಆಳವಾದ ಜ್ಞಾನವನ್ನುಗಳಿಸುತ್ತಲೇ ಕನ್ನಡ, ಸಂಸ್ಕೃತ ಮತ್ತು ಇಂಗ್ಲಿಷ್ ಅನ್ನು ಕರಗತಮಾಡಿಕೊಂಡರು. ಒಟ್ಟು 60 ಪುಸ್ತಕಗಳನ್ನು ರಚಿಸಿದರು. ಉತ್ಕೃಷ್ಟವಿಚಾರಧಾರೆಗಳನ್ನು ಹೊಂದಿರುವ ಸುಮಾರು ೨೦೦ಕ್ಕೂ ಹೆಚ್ಚುಲೇಖನಗಳು ಇಂದಿಗೂಕನ್ನಡ ಸಾಹಿತ್ಯ ಮತ್ತು ಬೌದ್ಧಿಕವಲಯಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ವಿಶೇಷ ಸ್ಥಾನವನ್ನು ಕಾಯ್ದುಕೊಂಡಿವೆ. ಡಿವಿಜಿ ರಚಿಸಿದ ನಾಲ್ಕೇ ನಾಲ್ಕು ಸಾಲಿನ ಕಗ್ಗಗಳು ಇಂದಿನವರೆಗೂಪ್ರಸ್ತುತತೆ ಪಡೆದುಕೊಳ್ಳಲು ಕಾರಣ ಅದರಲ್ಲಿ ಅಡಗಿರುವ ಸಂಕೀರ್ಣತೆ, ತಾತ್ವಿಕತೆ ಮತ್ತು ವೈಚಾರಿಕ ಹೊಳಹು.ಇವೆಲ್ಲವನ್ನು ಮಾರ್ಮಿಕವಾಗಿಕಟ್ಟಿಕೊಟ್ಟ ಬಗೆ ನಿಜಕ್ಕೂ ಗಮನಾರ್ಹ. ಇವರ ಶ್ರೇಷ್ಠ ಕೃತಿ ಮಂಕುತಿಮ್ಮನಕಗ್ಗ900 ಕ್ಕೂ ಹೆಚ್ಚು ಕಗ್ಗಗಳನ್ನು ಒಳಗೊಂಡಿದೆ. ನಿಷ್ಕಪಟ ಮತ್ತು ಸರಳವ್ಯಕ್ತಿತ್ವದ ಡಿವಿಜಿ, “ಮಂಕುತಿಮ್ಮ”ನ ಮೂಲಕ ಪ್ರಕೃತಿ ಮತ್ತು ಬದುಕಿನಒಳಪದರಗಳನ್ನು ಅತ್ಯಂತ ಚುರುಕಾಗಿ, ಸೂಕ್ಷ್ಮವಾಗಿ,ವಿನಯದಿಂದ, ಹಾಸ್ಯದ ಲೇಪದೊಂದಿಗೆ ಕಟ್ಟಿಕೊಟ್ಟಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ಇದೇ ಇವರಬರೆವಣಿಗೆಯ ಶಕ್ತಿ ಮತ್ತು ವೈಶಿಷ್ಟ್ಯ. ಅವರ ಇನ್ನೊಂದು ಮೇರುಕೃತಿ, ಮರುಳ ಮುನಿಯನ ಕಗ್ಗದಲ್ಲಿ ಇವರ ಕಾವ್ಯದ ತೇಜಸ್ಸನ್ನುಆಳನೋಟವನ್ನು ಕಾಣಬಹುದಾಗಿದೆ. ಡಿವಿಜಿ ಪ್ರತೀದಿನನಿದ್ದೆಗೆ ಜಾರುವ ಮೊದಲು ಕಾಗದದ ಚೂರುಗಳ ಮೇಲೆಈ ಕಗ್ಗಗಳನ್ನು ಬರೆಯುತ್ತಿದ್ದರು. ಇವರು ಕವಿ, ಲೇಖಕ, ಅನುವಾದಕ, ವಿದ್ವಾಂಸರಷ್ಟೇ ಅಲ್ಲ ಪ್ರಕಾಶಕರೂ ಆಗಿದ್ದರು. ಸಾಹಿತ್ಯದ ಹೊರತಾಗಿ ಸಮಾಜ ಸುಧಾರಣೆಯ ಪ್ರತಿಪಾದಕರೂಆಗಿದ್ದರು. ನೈತಿಕತೆ ಮತ್ತು ಆಡಳಿತದ ಕುರಿತು ಸಾರ್ವಜನಿಕರಲ್ಲಿ ಅರಿವುಮೂಡಿಸಲು ಗೋಖಲೆ ಇನ್‌ಸ್ಟಿಟ್ಯೂಟ್‌ ಆಫ್‌ ಪಬ್ಲಿಕ್ ಅಫೇರ್ಸ್ ಎಂಬಸಂಸ್ಥೆಯನ್ನು ಸ್ಥಾಪಿಸಿದರು. ಈ ಮೂಲಕ ಸಾಕಷ್ಟು ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮಗಳನ್ನುಹಮ್ಮಿಕೊಂಡು ಜನರಲ್ಲಿ ಜಾಗೃತಿ ಕೂಡ ಮೂಡಿಸಿದರು. ಈ ಕಾರಣಕ್ಕಾಗಿಮತ್ತು ಅವರ ಸಾಹಿತ್ತ್ಯಿಕ ಕೊಡುಗೆಗಳಿಗಾಗಿ 1974 ರಲ್ಲಿ ಕೇಂದ್ರ ಸರ್ಕಾರಪದ್ಮಭೂಷಣ ಪ್ರಶಸ್ತಿಯನ್ನು ನೀಡಿ ಗೌರವಿಸಿತು. ಡಿವಿಜಿ 1975ರ ಅಕ್ಟೋಬರ್ 7 ರಂದು ನಿಧನರಾದರು, ಅವರುಭೌತಿಕವಾಗಿ ಇಲ್ಲವಾದರೂ ಅವರ ಕಗ್ಗಗಳು ಕಾವ್ಯಪ್ರಿಯರ ಮೂಲಕಇಂದಿಗೂ ತಮ್ಮ ಸೌಂದರ್ಯವನ್ನು ಕಾಯ್ದುಕೊಂಡಿವೆ. ಜನಮಾನಸದಮೇಲೆ ಪ್ರಭಾವವನ್ನು ಬೀರುವಲ್ಲಿ ಯಶಸ್ವಿಯಾಗಿವೆ. ಇಂದಿನ ಪೀಳಿಗೆಗೆದಾರಿದೀಪದಂತೆ ಗೋಚರಿಸುತ್ತಿವೆ. Acknowledgements: Kaggas, Kannada translations, and book extracts researched and recited by Shridevi Kalasad. Credits Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar. Visit our website for more information:

What has eight legs and might have just had a husband for dinner? Most likely a spider. Often confused with insects, spiders have long been the subject of myths and stereotypes in literature, movies, and pop culture. Hollywood often depicts them as big, hairy, and dangerous monsters with ravenous appetites. However, this portrayal overlooks the critical role spiders play in the world’s ecosystems, explains biologist Divya Uma from Azim Premji University in conversation with Richa Govil in this episode of Story Of… Spiders are far from the villains they are often made out to be. In reality, they are a crucial component of the food web. Their presence helps maintain ecological balance, and without them, Earth's ecosystem would face dire consequences. Among the thousands of spider species, some stand out for their size, venom, and unique behaviours. Cultural perceptions of spiders vary widely. While Western media often portrays them as menacing creatures, in some parts of India, spiders have their place in religious and cultural traditions. In Kerala’s Pathanamthitta district, the Kodumon Chilanthiyambalam temple is dedicated to spiders, and people visit it in hopes of being cured of spider bites. Interestingly, some spiders, like the Signature Spider, are believed to create cryptic patterns on their webs that resemble writing. These patterns might serve as a warning to birds, deterring them from flying into and damaging the webs. Composed mainly of protein, spider silk is a highly versatile product. It can be of various kinds depending on the function it needs to perform, from sticky silk for trapping prey, soft silk for wrapping egg sacs, strong silk for building the structural elements of the web like arches and scaffolds, and so on. The silk produced by spiders, despite their lightness, has other properties like high tensile strength, ductility, and stability at high temperatures, which makes it a material that arouses the interest of architects, and structural engineers. Some scientists believe that spider silk, if it can be successfully synthesised in laboratories, could well be the fibre of the future. Beyond their fascinating behaviours and cultural significance, spiders are indispensable for their role in biological pest control. Their extinction would lead to a cascade of ecological problems, including a surge in insect-borne diseases and crop failures due to uncontrolled pest populations. In a world where spiders are often misunderstood, it's crucial to recognise their importance and the delicate balance they help maintain in nature. Without them, the world as we know it would be a much darker place. Credits: Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar Head over to our website to find resources for further reading and exploration, and to solve a fun crossword puzzle: y.edu.in/story-of-the-unfamiliar-stories-behind-familiar-objects/burp-guess-who-had-a-husband-for-dinner

In 2022, six years after its inception, the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) became the second most-watched sports event in India with 220 million viewers, surpassed only by the Indian Premier League (IPL) for T20 cricket. What fuelled its meteoric rise? In the second episode of Economies of Khel, economist Rahul De and media expert Kailash Koushik explore how kabaddi transformed from a rural pastime into a professional sport. They trace its roots back over 4,000 years in the Tamil-speaking region of southern India and its evolution in northern India’s traditional wrestling akhadas, where it was used to build physical fitness and combat skills. Some sources even liken Abhimanyu’s battle in the Mahabharata to a kabaddi match, where a lone warrior fends off encircling opponents. Kabaddi demands a unique combination of physical strength, mental agility, and extraordinary breath control, similar to swimming — Kailash calls it “meditation on the move.” Traditionally, the game is played between two teams of 12, with 7 players on the field at any time. The objective is to raid the opponent's half, tag players, and return without inhaling, all while chanting "Kabaddi." Points are awarded for successful raids and defences, with teams alternating roles after each half. India has several forms of kabaddi, each with distinct rules. Sanjeevani features a 40-minute game with players revived when an opponent is put out. Gaminee has no time limit, with players remaining out until all teammates are out. Amar is similar to Sanjeevani but allows players to stay on the court after being touched out. Punjabi Kabaddi is unique for its circular pitch. Despite their differences, all forms share the goal of capturing opponents. Though modern kabaddi gained recognition in the mid-1900s, with an exhibition match staged at the Berlin Olympics in 1936, it wasn't until 1950, with the establishment of the All India Kabaddi Federation, that it began to acquire prominence. Kabaddi was included as a medal sport in the Asian Games in 1990, and the launch of India’s Pro Kabaddi League in 2014 further propelled its popularity, making it a spectator sport backed by a cast of promoters that included industrialists, and Bollywood stars. Kabaddi’s international popularity is also growing, with strong teams emerging in Iran, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, South Korea, and Australia. Pro Kabaddi adapted and modified traditional rules to make the sport television-friendly. More significantly, it transported kabaddi from the akhada to the mat. With names like Tamil Thalaivas and Bengaluru Bulls, PKL teams rough it out for glory and laurels in a packed arena. In addition to dramatically increasing kabaddi's popularity in India, the PKL has introduced professionalism to the sport, attracting corporate sponsorships and improving player remuneration. It has also invested in grassroots development, fostering talent and promoting physical fitness in rural areas. PKL has elevated kabaddi's cultural significance, transforming a rural tradition into a mainstream sport and a symbol of Indian pride. Credits Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar For a comprehensive list of acknowledgements and other resources, visit our website: https://azimpremjiuniversity.edu.in/economies-of-khel-the-curious-business-of-unconventional-sports

The Stream Edition 2 In this edition: A. Shows and episodes: Sahir Ludhianvi’s Bombay - Excerpt from Bombay Talkies - Bonus Episode of Bhakti Republic with Amit Basole Cricket and caste - The Baloo Palwankar story | Excerpt from Well Caught Ep 1 - Separate Gates, Separate Dressing Rooms Round Figure - excerpt from It’s A Math Math Math World Grain Of Truth - excerpt from the Story Of Rice B. Original Music - Ullavaru Shivalaya… from Kayakave Kailasa - Music for Bhakti Republic by Pallavi MD and Bruce Lee Mani - Kole Basava OST by Bruce Lee Mani featuring Manjunath V on Nadaswaram - Silly Point - soundtrack composed by Bruce Lee Mani for Well Caught With Giri and Raghu - Desh Jam - soundtrack for It’s A Math Math Math World Ep 2 by Bruce Lee Mani - Soundtrack for the series opener of Unboxed - The Harmonium in India by Bruce Lee Mani - Soundtrack for Story Of Pani Puri by Bruce Lee Mani