Annu Kapoor is an entertainer who has worn many hats—actor, singer, director, producer, radio jockey, and television presenter—earning immense respect and recognition worldwide. He became a household name through iconic television shows like Antakshari and Wheel Smart Srimati.

Known for speaking his mind, Annu Kapoor has appeared in over 100 films and numerous television shows. He has been honoured with two National Film Awards, a Filmfare Award, and two Indian Television Academy Awards.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Annu Kapoor delves into his thoughts on nationalism. He expresses his belief that most Indians do not truly love their country and also opens up on atheism.

Kapoor shares anecdotes about legends from the film industry, including a vivid recount of Shabana Azmi and Javed Akhtar’s wedding, and reflects on a spat with Amitabh Bachchan. He also reveals an intriguing episode from the sets of 7 Khoon Maaf, alleging that Priyanka Chopra refused to kiss him because he wasn’t a 'hero.'

Tune in to this episode as Kapoor shares his flair for 'shayari' and performs a 300-year-old rap in his signature style.

00:00 - Introduction

01:44 - Upcoming projects

04:37 - Early life struggles

16:42 - Patriotism vs. Nationalism

21:37 - Early days in Bollywood

33:10 - Why he avoids watching films & news

34:33 - National Awards

37:05 - Lessons from the Bhagavad Gita

39:19 - True meaning of 'Deshbhakti'

43:59 - Publicity stunts

46:30 - Punctuality & Discipline

49:02 - Why was Wheel Smart Srimati scrapped?

53:40 - Learning discipline from Islam

55:27 - Brihadaranyaka Upanishad teachings

58:52 - Love, religion, and honour killings

1:02:14 - The story of 'Bharat'

1:04:34 - Annu 'Google' Kapoor

1:10:14 - Relationship with parents

1:13:48 - 'Kiss' controversy with Priyanka Chopra

1:20:14 - Shabana Azmi & Javed Akhtar's wedding

1:22:14 - Darr shoot

1:25:14 - Story behind India's independence

1:29:58 - World's 'oldest' rap song

John Chambers is the Chairman of the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) and the former CEO of Cisco. Under his leadership, Cisco became one of the world’s largest and most successful technology companies.

Dr. Mukesh Aghi is the President and CEO of USISPF. He works closely with business and government leaders in both the U.S. and India to promote trade and strengthen ties between the two nations.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, the guests discuss the evolution of India-U.S. relations over the past 15 years. John Chambers expresses strong confidence in India, saying that this decade and century belong to New Delhi. Dr. Mukesh Aghi shares a similar view, noting that the ties between India and the U.S. are on an upward trajectory, unaffected by changes in political leadership.

They also address the recent tensions between India and Canada over the Khalistan issue and its potential impact on businesses and students. Both guests praise Prime Minister Modi for fostering an environment in which entrepreneurship and startups have flourished in the past decade.

00:00 - Introduction

00:44 - India’s Century

03:49 - India: Then vs. Now

04:55 - India-Canada Spat

10:00 - U.S. Presidential Election

12:08 - India vs. China Economy

14:10 - India: A Tough Negotiator

16:54 - The Future of AI

20:15 - U.S.-China Tensions

22:30 - Middle East Conflict

25:00 - Tariffs & Migration in the USA

29:34 - India’s Chip Ambitions

33:34 - Business Prospects in India

37:31 - Indian vs. U.S. Investors