Podcasts about Kerala

Indiska vandrare visade forskare en hemlig energigivande växt. Det blev starten på ett unikt samarbete som ledde till Nagoyaprotokollet för rättvis vinstdelning. Lyssna på alla avsnitt i Sveriges Radios app. Programmet sändes första gången 20251111.Allt började med att forskaren Palpu Pushpangandan, tidigare chefen för den botaniska trädgården och forskningsinstitutet TBGRI i Thiruvananthapuram i delstaten Kerala i Indien, lyckades komma överens med representanter från ursprungsbefolkningen Kani-folket. De avslöjade sin hemlighet och fick i gengäld löfte om framtida inkomster.Deras uppgörelse blev som en förebild för det som senare kom att kallas Nagoya-protokollet, som handlar om rättvis fördelning av inkomster från kunskaper om bland annat medicinalväxter.Hasrat Arjjummend, som forskat kring effekterna av Nagoya-protokollet, menar att intäkterna sällan kommer enskilda individer till del. Laksmikutty Amma från Kani-folket menar dessutom att det känns som att ett brott har begåtts mot skogen.I Sydafrika har man ändå lyckats med ett avtal med en hel bransch utifrån Nagoya-protokollet. Där har Rooibos-industrin tecknat avtal med ursprungsbefolkningar om att de ska få procentuell ersättning av omsättningen.I Sydafrika jobbar Stephanie Cawood, som professor i Afrikanska studier vid University Free State i Bloemfontein. Hon har på regeringens uppdrag tillsammans med ursprungsbefolkningar startat en databas för att kartlägga kunskap, som senare ska kunna leda till patent. Databasen heter NIKMAS, som är en förkortning av National Indigenous Knowledges Management Systems.Reporter Annika ÖstmanAnnika.Ostman@sverigesradio.seProducent Lars BroströmLars.Brostrom@sverigesradio. se

Traditionell medicin möter modern forskning i en infekterad debatt om biverkningar, diagnoser och vetenskaplig granskning. Lyssna på alla avsnitt i Sveriges Radios app. Programmet sändes första gången 20251014.I södra Indien har en infekterad konflikt blossat upp mellan förespråkare för ayurvedisk medicin och forskare som granskar dess effekter. Ayurveda är ett av världens mest använda traditionella hälsosystem, men när forskare i Kerala upptäcker ett samband mellan örtpreparat och allvarliga leverskador väcks starka reaktioner.Tungmetaller som kvicksilver och arsenik hittas i flera produkter, vilket leder till juridiska strider, avpublicerade studier och försök att tysta kritiken. Samtidigt försvarar ayurvediska läkare sin metod och menar att västerländsk medicin saknar förståelse för kroppens balans. Diagnosmetoder, synen på vetenskap och kulturella värden kolliderar i en debatt som rör både hälsa och identitet.WHO öppnar ett nytt kontor för traditionell medicin i Indien, i hopp om att hårdare regleringar ska stärka patientsäkerheten. Vetenskapsradion möter forskare, läkare och ayurvedapraktiker i ett polariserat landskap där vetenskap och tradition står på kollisionskurs.Reporter: Annika Östmanannika.ostman@sr.seProducent: Lars Broströmlars.brostrom@sr.se

West Bengal, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Kerala & Puducherry will go to polls in 2026. What's at stake for Himanta Biswa Sarma in Assam, will BJP be able to counter Mamata Banerjee in West Bengal, and why Tamil Nadu will be a test for DMK & Congress - #CutTheClutter with Shekhar Gupta looks at the significance of the 5 elections in the coming year. Political Editor DK Singh joins in to analyse the likely implications for BJP, Congress, DMK & the Left. Episode 1778.

As the new year begins, many of us set resolutions that initially feel motivating but prove difficult to sustain. In this episode, Dr. Vignesh Devraj introduces the ancient Ayurvedic concept of Sankalpa and explains why real change begins not with force, but with clarity and alignment.This conversation explores why health is the foundation of every goal, how priorities shape our choices, and how small, consistent habits quietly build resilience. Dr. Vignesh also shares practical ways to set intentions without pressure, using gentle frameworks. Subscribe to the newsletter for episode summaries and a guide to build your Sankalpas.Episode HighlightsHow micro intentions quietly shape decisionsHow priorities design your life architectureA practical 90-day health SankalpaHow to use Mindset and Words for ChangeTimestamps00:00 - 01:00 - Introduction01:00 - 02:30 - Sankalpa and everyday rituals02:30 - 06:30 - How priorities shape life decisions06:30 - 07:00 - Sankalpa for the year07:00 - 11:30 - Everyday Mindful Tweaks11:30 - 13:30 - Retreats and Resets13:30 - 15:30 - The Right Mindset15:30 - 15:42 - Closing reflections on health & clarityIf you are interested in doing an Ayurvedic consultation with Dr Vignesh Devraj, please find the details in this link: https://calendly.com/drvignesh/30-minute-session-with-dr-vignesh-devraj-md-ay-istIf you are economically challenged, please use the form provided to request a free Ayurvedic consultation here. (or copy and paste this in your browser: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd29nHcrC1RssR-6WAqWCWQWKKJo7nGcEm8ITEl2-ErcnfVEg/viewform )BALANCING THE MIGHTY VATA - ONLINE COURSE NOW AVAILABLE What makes Ayurveda unique in its treatment approach is its practical wisdom on the concept of Vata. Vata is responsible for Prana - the life energy, the nervous system - the master panel of our body, and our emotions. In Ayurveda, it is mentioned that controlling Vata is the most difficult part of healing and recovery. Recently, I have recorded a workshop on - Balancing The Mighty Vata, which has over 6 hrs of content, with notes filled with practical inputs that can be integrated into our life. You can access this at https://vigneshdevraj.com/balancing-the-mighty-vata/ To know more about Dr Vignesh Devraj, follow him on:Spotify Channel Link: https://open.spotify.com/show/4ywO9cAMXqLeAfb6ZBruO8 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vigneshdevraj/?hl=en X: https://x.com/VigneshDevraj LinkedIn: https://in.linkedin.com/in/dr-vignesh-devraj-md-ayu-16294675 Newsletter Link: https://vigneshdevraj.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/About Dr Vignesh Devraj Dr Vignesh Devraj is a fourth-generation Ayurvedic physician and the founder of Sitaram Retreat, Kerala, a space for authentic healing and transformation. He is a committed practitioner and researcher of Panchakarma, an ancient body purification method that activates the body's innate healing energies, providing the foundation for true health.About Us:Ayurvedic Healing and Beyond is the brainchild of Dr. Vignesh Devraj, a fourth-generation Ayurvedic healer who believes that true health is the foundation of true happiness. Featuring high-profile guests, this podcast is a sincere effort to bridge the gap between global subject matter experts and an audience eager for solutions beyond conventional medical prescriptions. Each episode explores a wide range of topics, practical insights, and actionable takeaways.If you're enjoying the podcast, please consider subscribing and leaving us a review—it helps us grow and bring you more meaningful content. Thank you for your support!Disclaimer: The content of these podcast episodes is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Meet John Paul Jose, a young climate activist whose journey bridges rural Kerala and global climate conversations. Raised in a farming family, John witnessed firsthand how environmental change affects livelihoods, inspiring him to take action from an early age. This episode explores climate change as a lived reality, the connection between social and environmental justice, the power of youth voices, and how individual awareness can grow into collective action.

In this special episode of The Penis Project Podcast, the tables are turned — and Melissa Hadley Barrett is the one being interviewed!  Joining her is Sangeeth Sebastian, a journalist and sexuality writer from Kerala, India, and the founder of VVOX — a groundbreaking platform with a mission to make accurate, science-based sexual and mental health knowledge accessible to everyone and end sexual shame.  With nearly two decades in journalism, Sangeeth brings empathy and investigative depth to the conversation as he and Melissa explore everything from erectile dysfunction and Peyronies disease to libido, body image, and the silence surrounding sexual pain. Together they unpack why shame remains one of the biggest barriers to intimacy, how open communication can transform relationships, and what it means to create a culture of curiosity over judgment.  In This Episode, We Cover:  Sangeeth's journey from award-winning journalist in Kerala to sexuality educator and founder of VVOX  Why he launched VVOX and how its helping people unlearn sexual shame  Melissa's insights into men's sexual health — erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, Peyronie's disease, and post-cancer recovery  The social and cultural roots of shame around sex  How misinformation affects both men's and women's confidence and pleasure  The importance of empathy, language, and education in sexual healing  What it takes to build a healthier, shame-free global conversation around sex  Key Takeaways:  Shame is cultural — but it can be unlearned through education and open dialogue.  Science and compassion together heal more than medicine alone.  Sexual health is human health: it affects confidence, connection, and quality of life.  True intimacy grows from honesty, curiosity, and mutual respect.  Access to accurate information is the foundation of sexual freedom.  About Sangeeth Sebastian:  Hailing from Kerala, India, Sangeeth Sebastian is the founder of VVOX (pronounced we-vox), a platform dedicated to ending sexual shame by making reliable, evidence-based education about sexuality and mental health available to everyone.  With nearly 20 years of experience as a journalist, he has worked with major Indian media houses including The Hindu, Hindustan Times, and India Today Group. An award-winning sexuality writer and DAAD researcher, his work has been recognised internationally and featured in outlets such as BBC, The Guardian, AFP, Channel 4 UK, and The Daily Mail.  Sangeeth also received the Likho Award for Excellence from the Humsafar Trust for fair and inclusive LGBTQ+ representation in media.  Learn more about VVOX:   https://www.youtube.com/@vvoxIndia  www.vvox.in  Resources & Links:  Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic  For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au and www.melissahadleybarrett.com  Listen & Subscribe  If you found this episode helpful, don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.  Connect With Us   We love hearing from real people, navigating penile health. If you'd like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch. Email: admin@rshealth.com.au    Websites:  https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders  https://makehardeasy.com.au   https://melissahadleybarrett.com   Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/  https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@melissahadleybarrett   TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett  Facebook:  https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814  Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   TEDX:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA 

Every year around Christmas, reports of attacks on Christian worshippers surface from different parts of India. This year, there were numerous reports of various groups disrupting celebrations across several States, including Delhi, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh and even Kerala. Several church bodies have written to the Central government, warning of the “alarming rise” in such incidents during the Christmas season.In this episode, we examine why religious festivals often become a flashpoint for tension. Is it the heightened visibility of celebrations, long-standing misconceptions around conversion, or the role of social media in amplifying fear and hostility? Host: Reuben Joe Joseph Guest: Professor Apoorvanand, Delhi University Edited by Sharmada Venkatasubramanian Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Das Periyar-Schutzgebiet liegt mitten im Bergland der Westghats im indischen Bundesstaat Kerala. Im dortigen "Wildlife Sanctuary" sind auch Tiger zuhause, die sich aber nur sehr ungern den Besuchern zeigen.

It didn't always seem inevitable that Margaret Pak would end up running one of Chicago's most thoughtful and distinctive restaurants. She studied statistics, built a long career in finance and analytics, and spent years inside corporate systems where stability and structure were the goal. But alongside that work she fostered a quieter obsession for the culture surrounding food and food service. After a series of career pivots, unexpected layoffs, and some chance meetings with some of the city's more eccentric culinary characters, Margaret began following that instinct into kitchens, pop-ups, food halls, and eventually full restaurant ownership. Curiosity became craft, mentorship, and a deep respect for process: learning knife skills on prep shifts, absorbing lessons from chefs and collaborators, and shaping a truly authentic culinary voice. Today, Margaret is the co-owner and chef behind Thattu, an Avondale restaurant focused on Kerala cuisine, pop-up collaboration, and creating opportunities for emerging chefs., She joins us in the studio to talk through her winding journey, touching on career reinvention, the realities of building a restaurant from the ground up, and what it means to honor tradition while finding your own way forward -- and so much more!

Akshay John is an aspiring South Asian hip-hop artist who creates music that powerfully addresses real-life questions about the struggles that Indian Americans—especially other Gen Z Christians like himself—may experience. In sharing his journey from Kerala, India to the Middle East, and eventually to the United States, Akshay delves into how his South Asian background, Christian faith, and personal experiences shape his music— and how that same music became a creative outlet. Akshay discusses his struggle with traditional career expectations and his passion for authentically addressing the genuine experiences surrounding mental health and the immigrant experience through his art. Embedded with excerpts of his songs, this is a deep and candid conversation about music, faith, and cultural identity that you won't want to miss!00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:04 Akshay John's Musical Journey04:14 Early Life and Hip-Hop Influences06:45 Faith and Music Intertwined10:10 Music as Therapy and Creative Outlet15:22 Biographical Journey: From Middle East to the US23:12 Exploring Themes of Success and Faith26:38 Challenges and Reflections on South Asian Identity34:59 Vulnerability, Honesty, and Faith43:39 Final Thoughts and Future AspirationsPhoto used with permission by Akshay John. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit caacptsem.substack.com

A version of this essay was published by news18.com at https://www.news18.com/opinion/opinion-what-the-bjp-win-in-thiruvananthapuram-may-mean-or-may-not-9774658.htmlAs a native son, I believe the BJP's 50/101 seats in the Trivandrum Corporation in the recently concluded local body elections is an interesting outcome. But it must not be taken in isolation, and one must accept that this is neither a breakthrough for the BJP in the deep south, nor a mere footnote in the CPI(M)-Congress duopoly that has been the hallmark of Kerala politics. There are a lot of local factors, but yes, perhaps there is an underlying, nascent realignment.There is anti-incumbency: there used to be, like clockwork, one term for the UDF, one term for the LDF. But now, the CPI-M has been ruling for ten years in a row, and the voters may be fed up with them. In Trivandrum, for instance, the outgoing mayor, Arya Rajendran, who is in her 20s, has a well-deserved reputation for arrogance. Tellingly, she did not campaign in 2025.But there is more.There are at least four extraordinary factors at play here: One is the vanity that Kerala politics is somehow superior to politics elsewhere in (southern) India, because, you know, it is the 100% literate state. This is far from the truth. Mere literacy, that is, knowing the syntax of written language, does not guarantee you understand the semantics, that is, the ability to think critically rather than be gaslighted. The average Kerala voter is as easily manipulated as any other.Second, regional tensions. Kerala consists of three distinct regions: northern Malabar, which was under British rule, which meant it was plundered and underdeveloped. It also is Muslim-dominated. Central Kochi, which was a moderately dynamic dynasty, and is Christian-dominated. Southern Travancore, which was under a strong dynasty (but came under the sway of the British), and is Hindu majority.Third, the erstwhile consensus around ‘secularism' is fraying: it is now increasingly seen as merely a shibboleth meant to hypnotize the Hindu community into caste-based internecine conflict and keep it a permanent underclass, with fewer rights than those of other religions. Hindus are still fighting 19th century battles in the 21st century. The shocking neglect, occasional desecration of, and outright large-scale theft from, major temples such as Sabarimala may now be turning into a bit of an issue for the lay Hindu.Fourth, after half a century of left-wing politics, it is becoming increasingly clear to the average Keralite that it is being left behind in development and prosperity. At independence, Travancore in particular was far ahead of the rest of India in key metrics like infant mortality, female literacy, and infrastructure. But anti-business socialism has led to de-industrialization, forced migration of Keralites in search of jobs, and high inflation, while other states are passing Kerala by.On top of all this, there is the rampant politicization of everything (for example, government jobs do not go to those who have high ranks in the State Public Service Commission selection exams, but to party cadres). There is a truly bizarre situation where two parties, both in the INDI Alliance all over the country (CPI-M and Congress), pretend to be rivals in Kerala, and do charades and shadow-boxing, although they do tactical voting to prevent the BJP from winning.It startles me to hear that there is a Left (CPI-M) and a Right (Congress) in Kerala, according to pundits. In reality, they are an Extreme-Left party and a Far-Left party, respectively. Indeed, even the BJP, which is spoken of as Far-Right is a Center-Left party, so severely distorted is the discourse – the median is Far-Left.To an impartial observer, the only way the Congress in Kerala can be termed a Right-wing party is that it appeases its vote-bank, the Christians, although the FC Nairs also traditionally vote for them. The Communists, whose rank and file are mostly made up of the OBC Ezhavas, increasingly are dominated by the needs of their Malabar Muslim vote-bank. So in a twisted sort of way, both these Left parties pander to the Conservative sentiments of these religious groups.This has real-life consequences, which Travancore voters are seeing increasingly clearly. The last major investment in Trivandrum was the ISRO's Vikram Sarabhai Space Center, which was required to be on the magnetic equator. After that, the National Institute of Technology went to Kozhikode (in Malabar). The Indian Institute of Management went to Kozhikode (in Malabar). The Indian Institute of Technology went to Palakkad (in Malabar). The AIIMS is also likely to go to Malabar or Kochi.A metro system was given to Kochi, even though Trivandrum has an equal or better claim in terms of population size and other metrics. Successive UDF and LDF governments have sat on the proposal for Trivandrum's metro (incidentally Kozhikode is also in the same boat). Trivandrum airport saw zero development for 40 years from 1960.Staggeringly, the Trivandrum port (Vizhinjam) was also delayed for 40 years, even though the deepwater container transhipment port there is now on track to handle a lot of India's container cargo, which now goes to Colombo. Instead, 4400 crores were spent on a container port at Kochi, which has only 8 meters draft and cannot compete with Colombo.Trivandrum/Vizhinjam has 24 meters in depth, which means literally the largest container ship in the world, MSC Irina, with 24,000 containers on board, can and in fact has called at this port.The LDF government twisted Adani Ports' arm and moved their logistics park for Vizhinjam, which Adani runs on contract, 200 km away to Kochi! In addition, the road and rail approaches to the port, which are necessary for ‘gateway' or upcountry containers from/to say Bangalore or Hyderabad, have been delayed for a long time over trivial land acquisition issues.These lapses are glaring, and add up to step-motherly treatment for Trivandrum. There must be a lot of resentment among the voters here about this, because their real estate values would go up quite a lot if Vizhinjam's business improves, and there will be jobs related to logistics, bunkering, cruise lines, and so on. Under the Sagarmala initiative, this is something that Trivandrum voters hope the Union Government will push forward, along with a proposed Tri-Services Maritime Command: thus both military and civil infrastructure may bring benefits.Finally, the excesses against Hindu temples, which are ruled by the Devaswom Board, packed with party cadres who may well be hostile atheists, are getting exposed broadly. There is a tradition prohibiting the entry of women between 10 and 60 years of age (ie. of childbearing age) into the shrine, which the women devotees in Kerala are broadly okay with, and don't feel particularly discriminated against. The Kerala government made a huge fuss over it, and attempted to smuggle in both non-believing women and non-Hindu women into the temple.This has troubled some of the CPI-M's traditional voters, for example the hitherto blase Ezhavas. As the attacks on Hindus continue, there is a bit of a counter-consolidation as well.There is no end: there is the huge current scandal of the theft of gold from the temple doors and dwarapalaka statues in Sabarimala (along with similar desecration in Guruvayur). There is an ongoing investigation, which ought to, if pursued properly, implicate highly connected political players. But recently, there have been instances of prosecutorial misconduct that mean likely criminals get away with, er, murder.Sowmya's alleged murderer Charlie Thomas aka Govindachamy was let off death row, because the prosecutor did not make a good enough case. An actor, Dileep, who allegedly took out a contract for a thug to rape an actress in a moving car, was let off. You guessed it, the prosecution did not make a good enough case.Incidentally, Christian churches with vast landholdings (a good bit of which was 99-year leases given during British days which has now, magically, turned into freehold), or Muslim mosques and other Waqf claimants rarely face the wrath of the State. Yes, there is a case wending its way through the courts about the peninsula of Munambam which is home to 600 families, mostly Christian fisherman, but is claimed in its entirety as a Waqf property.A net reflection of all this is that urban Hindus have begun to rethink their political views. There is a strong urban-rural divide as seen in the just-conducted local body polls. The urban, so to speak, constituencies have seen the vice-like grip of the LDF diminish a bit, but they remain strong in the rural areas. This is borne out by conversations with the rural poor, who talk about kshema pensions, NREGA, and so on as benefits they get from the State government.What this suggests is that anti-incumbency is playing its part; but the likely outcome is a return to the Tweedledum-Tweedledee “throw the rascals out every five years” syndrome of years past. The BJP is unlikely to make any quick inroads into this; they may not get many Assembly seats in 2026, and they are unlikely to get more than a couple of Lok Sabha seats in 2029.Yet, as for obvious reasons there is a Right-ward lurch in Europe, with the rise of AfD in Germany, Marine Le Pen's National Rally in France, and Nigel Farrage's Reform UK, and these parties are no longer easily put behind a cordon sanitaire, the BJP in Kerala is not any longer completely unelectable. The voters are beginning to see that it is not completely er… untouchable.It will be a long, painful journey, but maybe in a decade or two, the BJP can become a realistic opposition party in Kerala. To do this in the extreme South, in the very bastion of the Communists, as well as in a State with very large non-Hindu populations, would be quite an achievement for them. We shall have to wait and see if they have the stamina and the staying power for this grueling odyssey.Malayalam podcast of this essay by notebookLM: 1650 words, 15 Dec 2025 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rajeevsrinivasan.substack.com/subscribe

A pop-up cafe in Tokyo is giving people with dementia a place to volunteer as well as a sense of community. Its owner Toshio Morita has become something of a local celebrity. At Orange Day Café, muddled orders, long pauses and gentle confusion aren't mistakes — they're the point.Also:A Northern Irish man who suffered a cardiac arrest had his life saved after his golden retriever, named Polly, alerted his wife after he stopped breathing. Polly the dog has been hailed a hero by the charity, the British Heart Foundation.A revolutionary gene therapy has successfully treated patients with aggressive and previously incurable blood cancers. In Kenya, the Rare Gem Talent School has been set up specifically to teach dyslexic children. A condition that is believed to impact around 10% of people globally.A woman in Kerala, India, has started a camp to help women who are going through a divorce. And a French man in London has become the face of a homelessness charity after his virtuoso piano playing at a train station went viral. Our weekly collection of inspiring, uplifting and happy news from around the world.

Azna Parveen is a PhD scholar in Architecture at the University of Manchester, UK. Her research explores the socio-cultural translations of Islam in the built environment through the perspective of oceanic trade along the Indian Ocean littorals, focussing on Malabar Coast of Kerala, India. Trained in architecture with a specialisation in Urban Design, she has previously worked as an architect and an academician. She was also part of a multidisciplinary team awarded a grant by India Foundation for Art to study the spatial and sensorial landscape of Kayalpattinam. Beyond academia, she is a published illustrator and storyteller, leading heritage walks independently and with organisations (past collaborators include Kochi-Muziris Biennale) to encourage inclusive and interdisciplinary conversations about architectural and urban histories and sustainable futures for heritage. Visit Sacred Writes: https://www.sacred-writes.org/2025-carpenter-cohorts-august  

This week, Monika unpacks a busy stretch of economic headlines: a strong 8.2% GDP print, the rupee slipping to 90 against the dollar, and a 0.25% RBI rate cut. She begins by explaining why exchange rates matter, what drives currency demand, and why the recent rupee depreciation reflects global risk aversion, high US rates, and a seasonal widening of the current account deficit. Drawing on economist Sajjid Chinoy's view, Monika highlights how a softer rupee can improve export competitiveness and why exceptionally low inflation gives the RBI confidence to allow the currency to adjust without triggering instability.Monika then explains how the RBI's rate cut fits into the broader macro picture. With the repo rate now at 5.25%, the combination of strong growth, a gently depreciating rupee, and lower rates signals confidence in inflation staying anchored. She outlines what this means for savers and borrowers: FD and RBI bond investors may want to lock in long tenors while real returns remain high, borrowers should see relief ahead, and long-duration debt funds may offer tactical opportunities. Above all, she reminds listeners that stable financial plans should not be derailed by headlines or market noise.In listener questions, Anonymous from Bengaluru seeks guidance on navigating family wealth differences while choosing a life partner, Akila weighs renting versus buying as she plans a move before eventually settling into a retirement home, and Aravind from Kerala asks whether investing across top democratic countries is practical for an Indian investor.Chapters:00:00 – 00:00) RBI Rate Cuts and the Rupee at 90(00:00 – 00:00) Why the Rupee Fell and What It Means for Inflation(00:00 – 00:00) Navigating Marriage Decisions When Families Differ in Wealth(00:00 – 00:00) Choosing Between Renting, Buying, or Retirement Homes(00:00 – 00:00) Should Indians Invest Internationally? Practical Global Diversificationhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9897cGJP0wAIf you have financial questions that you'd like answers for, please email us at ⁠mailme@monikahalan.com⁠ Monika's book on basic money management⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-money-english/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Monika's book on mutual funds⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-mutual-funds/⁠⁠⁠⁠Monika's workbook on recording your financial life⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-legacy/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Calculators⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://investor.sebi.gov.in/calculators/index.html⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠You can find Monika on her social media @monikahalan. Twitter ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@MonikaHalan⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@MonikaHalan⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@MonikaHalan⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠@MonikaHalan⁠⁠⁠⁠Production House: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.inoutcreatives.com⁠⁠⁠⁠Production Assistant:⁠⁠⁠⁠ Anshika Gogoi⁠⁠⁠

Why People HATE Indian Tourists!Why Indian Tourists are CHAOTIC!Why Indian Tourists Always Cause TROUBLE!EXPOSING Indian Tourist Behaviour!Our Podcast Clips Channel: Our Episode Clips: https://www.youtube.com/@UCTtY3Y--C25oENrH4ER4ELA _____________________________________Check out Sameer's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sameerroshan6/Zayaan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zayaan.z?igsh=MXJyNWR3cjAyandpOQ==Check out Zayaan's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBxNEbiHXcResh_5cA3Zt3Q

First, we talk to The Indian Express' Nikhila Henry about one of the most consequential criminal cases in Kerala's recent history. A case that has been going on for eight years, where a leading Malayalam actor was abducted and sexually assaulted. Nikhila shares details of the case, the investigation and the verdict that was given by a Sessions Court in  Ernakulam.Next, we talk to The Indian Express' Diplomatic Affairs Editor Shubhajit Roy about Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent visit to India, his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the discussions that happened during the meeting and the significance of his visit. (11:26)Lastly, we talk about a demolition drive in Nainital during which 52 houses were torn down for allegedly encroaching on forest land. (21:47)Hosted by Niharika NandaProduced by Niharika Nanda, Ichha Sharma and Shashank BhargavaEdited and mixed by Suresh Pawar 

In this podcast, Kushal speaks with Nikhil Mehra about the controversy surrounding the ban on wearing Hijab inside the educational premises i.e the classrooms at St Rita's Public School in Ernakulam's Palluruthy and Vivek Vidyalaya and Junior College at Goregaon, Mumbai. Is the freedom of the institute more important or is the students right to religious freedom being encroached upon? Follow Nikhil: X: @TweetinderKaul #islamism #keralahijabrow #feminism #burqaban ------------------------------------------------------------ Listen to the podcasts on: SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/kushal-mehra-99891819 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rVcDV3upgVurMVW1wwoBp Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-c%C4%81rv%C4%81ka-podcast/id1445348369 Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/the-carvaka-podcast ------------------------------------------------------------ Support The Cārvāka Podcast: Buy Kushal's Book: https://amzn.in/d/58cY4dU Become a Member on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKPx... Become a Member on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/carvaka UPI: kushalmehra@icici Interac Canada: kushalmehra81@gmail.com To buy The Carvaka Podcast Exclusive Merch please visit: http://kushalmehra.com/shop ------------------------------------------------------------ Follow Kushal: Twitter: https://twitter.com/kushal_mehra?ref_... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KushalMehraO... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecarvakap... Koo: https://www.kooapp.com/profile/kushal... Inquiries: https://kushalmehra.com/ Feedback: kushalmehra81@gmail.com

En Inde, le Kerala affirme depuis peu en avoir fini avec l'extrême pauvreté. C'est une première parmi les États d'Inde, un pays qui reste encore souvent associé aux scènes de misère. Le Kerala est un État communiste, avec de fortes politiques publiques dans la santé ou l'éducation. Sur place, certains jugent cependant que l'annonce de la fin de la pauvreté est précipitée. De notre correspondant à Kerala, La maison de Rajan et Jayanthi, au carrelage impeccable, a été inaugurée il y a moins d'une semaine. Le couple, qui habite la région montagneuse et tropicale de Wayanad, en Inde, revient de loin.  « J'étais conducteur d'auto rickshaw. Mais durant le Covid-19, j'ai eu un grave accident. Je suis resté en chaise roulante. Ma femme et mes deux enfants ont été soudainement privés de revenus. Nous survivions dans une cabane, sans espoir. Heureusement, le gouvernement est venu nous aider », raconte Rajan. Grâce au programme d'éradication de la pauvreté, Rajan et Jayanthi achètent une mini-échoppe, puis reçoivent un apport pour construire leur maison. Aujourd'hui, le couple relève la tête, comme d'autres, explique un élu local. « Dans le district, nous avons identifié 118 familles comme extrêmement pauvres. Avec notre aide, 22 ont pu construire une maison, six ont eu des terres à cultiver, 43 ont bénéficié d'aide alimentaire, 14 ont pu trouver un boulot, etc. » Sarojini, une femme isolée, en a aussi bénéficié. « J'ai 60 ans et je travaillais dans l'agriculture, en gagnant un peu plus d'un euro par jour. Désormais employée dans des toilettes publiques, je gagne plus de trois euros. Ça a vraiment changé ma vie. » « Plus personne ne fait face à une pauvreté extrême » Le plan contre la pauvreté du Kerala, encore aujourd'hui dirigé par le Parti Communiste, remonte à 1997. En ce mois de novembre, le dirigeant de cet État du Sud affirme qu'il a atteint cet objectif fondamental. « Il y a 50 ans, les chercheurs nous classaient parmi les États les plus défavorisés de l'Inde. Aujourd'hui, plus personne ne fait face à une pauvreté extrême au Kerala », souligne Pinarayi Vijayan. Mais comment définir la pauvreté extrême ? Si la Banque mondiale se base sur le salaire quotidien, le Kerala mélange critères économiques, sanitaires et alimentaires. L'économiste P. R. Kannan déplore un manque de transparence : « Le Kerala avance, c'est indéniable. Mais avant d'affirmer que la pauvreté a disparu, le gouvernement doit publier ses données, sa méthodologie et les experts qui ont encadré ces statistiques. » Les aides du gouvernement échappent aux personnes isolées Nusrath, une élue de l'opposition à Wayanad, nous a emmenés rencontrer des habitants ignorés, selon elle, par les programmes du gouvernement. « Il y a des gens qui, parce qu'ils sont trop isolés, échappent encore aux aides gouvernementales. Si nous, dans l'opposition, validons que la pauvreté a disparu, les budgets vont disparaître alors qu'ils en ont encore grand besoin ! » Pour l'instant, le gouvernement du Kerala n'a pas clairement répondu aux experts et opposants qui jugent qu'il crie victoire trop rapidement.

"Farm life" captures the soundscape of an open paddy field in southern India - long after the harvest season, when weeds have reclaimed the land and rural fauna slowly returns. Recorded just as the day was winding down, the acoustic landscape features a chorus of birds, insects, frogs and distant vehicles that are layered beneath the prominent and resonant calls of Greater Coucals engaging in what feels like a slow, conversational exchange. Recorded in Onamthuruth, Kerala by Manu Krishnakumar.

"This piece starts with the original recording, which consists of lively, beautiful species. However, as we move forward new, unconventional sounds are introduced. I have been obsessing over sounds, in its raw state, without any acoustic characteristics of a space imbibed in it. I have used a lot of surface recordings done with contact mics. All these are recordings of vibrating surface, which are then EQ'd later to create specific musical chords to introduce a sense of musicality.  "For me, this reimagined piece is basically a journey, where the sense of space gets lost gradually as we move our ear from the space to the resonating surface of the space." Farm life in Kerala reimagined by Prabuddha Mukhopadhyay.

•⁠ ⁠‘பாரத் மாதா கி ஜே' என்ற முழக்கத்துடன் தடுப்புகளைத் தள்ளிவிட்டு முருகன் கோயிலுக்குள் நுழைந்த கும்பல்?•⁠ ⁠நீதிபதி ஜி.ஆர் சுவாமிநாதன் உத்தரவும்... திருப்பரங்குன்றத்தில் ஏற்பட்ட பரப்பும்!•⁠ ⁠“கலவரம் செய்ய நினைப்பவர்களை அரசு இரும்புக் கரம் கொண்டு அடக்க வேண்டும்” -செல்வப்பெருந்தகை•⁠ ⁠"நீதிபதி ஜி.ஆர்.சுவாமிநாதன் பிறப்பித்த உத்தரவு வன்மையான கண்டனத்துக்குரியது" - சண்முகம்•⁠ ⁠``நீதிபதி ஜி.ஆர்.சுவாமிநாதன் மீது நடவடிக்கை தேவை!'' - திருமாவளவன்•⁠ ⁠பா.ஜ.க தலைவர்கள் சொல்வதென்ன?•⁠ ⁠திருப்பரங்குன்றம் விவகாரம்: தமிழ்நாடு அரசின் மேல்முறையீட்டு மனு தள்ளுபடி?•⁠ ⁠DMK-விடம் அதிக தொகுதிகள் கேட்கும் காங்கிரஸ்? •⁠ ⁠"தமிழ்நாடு அரசியல் நகர்வுகள் குறித்து விவாதித்தோம்" - ஓபிஎஸ் டெல்லி சந்திப்புகளின் பின்னணி?•⁠ ⁠கேரள உள்ளாட்சித் தேர்தலில் போட்டியிடும் அதிமுக - பொறுப்பாளர்கள் நியமனம்•⁠ ⁠தேர்தல் ஆணையத்தை கண்டித்து ராமதாஸ் தரப்பினர் இன்று ஆர்ப்பாட்டம்•⁠ ⁠சின்னம் முடக்கப்படும் - தேர்தல் ஆணையம் தெரிவிப்பு!•⁠ ⁠டித்வா புயல்: கனமழையால் கடும் பாதிப்பைச் சந்தித்த வடசென்னை!•⁠ ⁠அரசுமுறைப் பயணமாக இன்று இந்தியா வருகிறார் ரஷ்ய அதிபர் புதின்!•⁠ ⁠UP: புதின் படத்துக்கு பொட்டு வைத்து பூஜை செய்த BJP-யினர்.•⁠ ⁠ஐரோப்பிய நாடுகளுடன் போரிட தயார் - புதின்.•⁠ ⁠தமிழக விவசாயிகளின் இயற்கை வேளாண்மை வியப்பளிக்கிறது - மோடி.•⁠ ⁠Fake News க்கு எதிராக நடவடிக்கை - அமைச்சர் அஸ்வினி வைஷ்ணவ்•⁠ ⁠டெல்லி காற்று மாசு... நாடாளுமன்ற வளாகத்தில் காங்கிரஸ் போராட்டம்!•⁠ ⁠Sanchar Saathi கட்டாய இன்ஸ்டால் உத்தரவை வாபஸ் பெற்ற மத்திய அரசு; இதற்கு `மக்கள் நம்பிக்கை' காரணமா? •⁠ ⁠AVM: `குடும்பப் படங்களுக்கு முக்கியத்துவம் கொடுத்தவர்' - ஏவிஎம் சரவணன் காலமானார்.

Kerala claims to be the first state in India to have ended extreme poverty. Over the past four years, various government departments have worked together to provide around 64,000 families living in extreme poverty with food, shelter, medical care and scholarships for their children. But what is extreme poverty and why are some people questioning this claim? The BBC's Shruti Menon, who is from Kerala, explains all. She also chats us through how extreme poverty rates across India have plummeted in the past decade. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbert Producers: Mora Morrison and Natalia Makohon Editor: Verity Wilde

(00:00:36) Ukraine: l'émissaire américain est-il trop proche du Kremlin ? (00:10:33) Comment l'État indien du Kerala prétend avoir éliminé la pauvreté extrême (00:14:51) Ce que la signature de Donald Trump raconte de lui...

This recording was made during a Kathakali performance — a traditional Indian theatre art form native to the Malayalam-speaking state of Kerala. It captures a 9-minute percussive piece performed by an ensemble featuring the Chenda and Maddalam, two prominent drums of the tradition, accompanied by the echoing tones of Chengila (gong) and Elathalam (cymbals). Recorded from the audience's perspective, the audio reflects not just the instruments themselves but also the layered soundscape projected through nearby speakers, with occasional murmurs that ground the recording in the real-life atmosphere of the performance. Recorded in Ettumanoor, India by Manu Krishnakumar.

https://theprint.in/india/governance/why-kerala-is-pushing-back-against-centres-new-labour-codes/2793520/

EPISODE 639 - Deepa Anappara - Djinn Patrol on the Purple Line, Letters to a Writer of Colour and The Last of EarthDeepa Anappara's debut novel Djinn Patrol on the Purple Line was named as one of the best books of the year by The New York Times, The Washington Post, Time and NPR. It won the Edgar Award for Best Novel, was longlisted for the Women's Prize for Fiction 2020, and shortlisted for the JCB Prize for Indian Literature. Time included it in its list of ‘The 100 Best Mystery and Thriller Books of All Time'. It has been translated into over twenty languages.Anappara is the co-editor of Letters to a Writer of Colour, a collection of personal essays on fiction, race, and culture, published by Random House (US) and Vintage (UK) in 2023. Her second novel, The Last of Earth, will be published by Random House in the US, and Penguin Random House in India, in January 2026, and by Oneworld in the UK in February 2026.She has a PhD in Creative-Critical Writing and an MA in Creative Writing (Prose Fiction) from the University of East Anglia, Norwich. She teaches creative writing and is a mentor on the South Asia Speaks mentorship programme for emerging writers in South Asia. Anappara was born in Kerala, southern India, and worked as a journalist in India for eleven years. Her reports on the impact of poverty and religious violence on the education of children won the Developing Asia Journalism Awards, the Every Human has Rights Media Awards, and the Sanskriti-Prabha Dutt Fellowship in Journalism. Book: THE LAST OF EARTHFrom the award-winning author of Djinn Patrol on the Purple Line comes a stunning historical novel set in nineteenth-century Tibet that follows two outsiders—an Indian schoolteacher spying for the British Empire and an English “lady” explorer—as they venture into a forbidden kingdom.1869. Tibet is closed to Europeans, an infuriating obstruction for the rap­idly expanding British Empire. In response, Britain begins training Indians—permitted to cross borders that white men may not—to undertake illicit, dangerous surveying expeditions into Tibet.Balram is one such surveyor-spy, an Indian schoolteacher who, for several years, has worked for the British, often alongside his dearest friend, Gyan. But Gyan went missing on his last expedition and is rumored to be imprisoned within Tibet. Desperate to rescue his friend, Balram agrees to guide an English captain on a foolhardy mission: After years of paying others to do the exploring, the captain, disguised as a monk, wants to personally chart a river that runs through southern Tibet. Their path will cross fatefully with that of another Westerner in disguise, fifty-year-old Katherine. Denied a fellowship in the all-male Royal Geographical Society in London, she intends to be the first European woman to reach Lhasa.A polyphonic novel about the various ways humans try to leave a mark on the world—from the enduring nature of family and friendship to the egomania and obsessions of the colonial enterprise—The Last of Earth confirms Deepa Anappara as one of our greatest and most ambitious storytellers.https://www.deepa-anappara.com/Support the show___https://livingthenextchapter.com/podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks!https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

Conan chats with Arjun from Kerala in southern India about looking for a partner, Kerala's history as a spice hub, and what it would take to accept Conan as his wingman. Wanna get a chance to talk to Conan? Submit here: teamcoco.com/apply Get access to all the podcasts you love, music channels and radio shows with the SiriusXM App! Get 3 months free using this show link: https://siriusxm.com/conan. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kerala has declared that it has “eradicated extreme poverty,” identifying over one lakh people as the final few remaining in this category in the State. But what does “extreme poverty” actually mean, and is it possible for a State to eradicate it? This episode unpacks the definitions, the methodology used by the State, the gap between Kerala's estimates and the Central government's Antyodaya Anna Yojana's numbers, and the wider questions this raises about poverty measurement and verification. The conversation also looks at whether States should set their own criteria, what an ideal poverty tracking system should look like, and how journalists can independently assess such claims. Guest: Prof. R. Ramakumar, Former Dean of the School of Development Studies at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, and a non-ministerial member of the Kerala government's State Planning Board Host: Devyanshi Bihani Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let me admit up front that I like Rishab Shetty. A lot. I'd probably go see anything he makes, and I wish him well, because he is an actor with terrific presence. To be honest, I was blown away by his performance in Kantara, both as protagonist and director/writer. I had no idea about the bhoota-kola of Tulunadu, although I have seen the similar theyyam of nearby Malabar, and was suitably impressed.Therefore I was disappointed and underwhelmed by the prequel Kantara Chapter 1, for a variety of reasons. I understand this is not the universal reaction to the prequel: in particular, young people I spoke with liked the esthetics, the special effects, the big budget production, and the expansive canvas of the spice trade, a large kingdom, and good cast including veteran Jayaram as the weary king, and Rukmini Vasanth as a suitably gorgeous but sinister princess.But to me it came across as an untidy mishmash of various genres, with the principal purpose of creating a franchise: surely we can expect Chapter 2, Chapter 3 and so on. I don't begrudge Rishab Shetty and his producer their success, especially as the original Kantara was a sleeper success on a tiny budget.Warning: spoilers ahead.My problems were manifold. The first was that the original Kantara hit me with the force of a hurricane, when the coming-of-age tale of the wild-boar-hunting-and-carousing Shiva takes a sudden and unexpected turn and he becomes, reluctantly, the bhoota-kola oracle, taking on the role of his father who disappeared, and his cousin who was murdered.It was a revelation: a moment when a man turns into the Divine, in a wholly believable and entirely autochthonous, Dharmic tradition, a celebration of the presence of benign powers all around, a manifestation of a pantheistic world-view. It was one of the few recent films that powerfully put across a wholly Hindu perspective, which unfortunately is unusual in India.As a child, I remember devotional and patriotic films in Malayalam, which engendered a certain affection for the traditions of one's forefathers. And often the story-lines, from well-known literary works, were rooted in the local milieu. Over time, this has been dissipated, and replaced by unremarkable films that are technically quite good, but for lack of a better word, lack ‘soul'.In general, this has been true of the dominant Hindi/Urdu language films as well: the narrative is some kind of a global, ‘liberal', westernized, ‘modernized' and deracinated tale, where in particular Hindus get short shrift. For example, a recent, highly-rated Malayalam film mined Kottarathil Sankunny's Aithihya-mala, but turned the protagonists into people of other religions. There was another named 19th Century in which the recently-invented (in the 2010s) fiction of a ‘breast-tax' on lower-caste women was turned into ‘fact'.This sort of digestion of, and worse, denigration of, native tradition has been true of Hindi/Urdu films for a long time as has been amply and devastatingly recorded by the efforts of ‘Gems of Bollywood' on twitter. Therefore it is refreshing when a few films offer a Hindu point of view, eg. Kantara, Bahubali, or the shatteringly powerful Baramulla. This is one reason I am loath to criticize Rishab Shetty too much, but I do have my own complaints.One is that the Kantara Chapter 1 seems like a mish-mash of various ideas, borrowed from various sources. The origin myth of the hero Berme, where he appears as an abandoned child on a bed of leaves (and the presence of the computer-generated white tiger) may be a nod to the Sabarimala legend: Lord Ayyappa is a foundling, and he is sent on an errand to fetch tiger's milk by the evil queen who hopes that he will die in that quest.Then there is the battle of the good vs bad, which reminded me of the battle scenes from Bahubali, and indeed the dark-skinned barbarians from that film got a reprise here with the black-cowled evil sorcerer Kadapa tribe. And I wondered in passing if the very name ‘Kadapa' was a reference to the Telugu stronghold of the proselytizing Christian Reddys.Then there is the untidy story of the port city that the Kantara folks want access to, so they can sell spices to white people with no middleman. They also dragged in a superfluous white trader. Yes, the West Coast has been trading with the Middle East and points west for millennia via the Spice Route, but that seems irrelevant to the deep-forest-dwelling Kantara villagers.In addition, there were cliched memes about slavery (of tribals) and exploitation by the rich and powerful. These came across as nods to the prevailing dogma of woke victim narratives. The remarkable thing is that slavery was virtually unknown among Hindus: the first textual and/or epigraphic examples of slavery in India were by a Christian church in Kerala (the Tarisapalli copperplate, 849CE) and during the Muslim invasions.The characters were also hit and miss. There were the picaresque companions from the original film, including a vidushaka type who was silly in the original, but annoying here; so was the prince's kinkara. Neither of them added much to the film, and could easily have been written out. The prince was so typecast from the moment you laid eyes on him – clearly a dissolute, useless fellow – that you knew he was going to be dispatched summarily.I did like the princess. She was apparently born with paralysis in her hands and legs, and she was handed over to the sorcerer Kadapas, who cured her, but also (it is implied) turned her into a wily seductress, whose efforts to distract the hero (Berme) from his quest were, fortunately, futile. The old king was rather good, too. Rishab Shetty impresses as always with his physical presence, as well as his signature primal roar.I missed the glowing varaha and the superb Varaha-roopam song which was so electric in the original Kantara. (I hear there were some copyright claims from a band in Kerala, but it baffles me that an old traditional song or tune could be copyrighted by some upstart.) There was a little piglet in one scene, but that was not enough. The VFX of the Brahma-rakshas was unsatisfying, and should have been left to the viewer's imagination.All in all, the prequel was a disappointment after the original Kantara, which was refreshingly unpretentious: it did not preach, nor did it explain – it just was, and it forced you to accept the reality of the demigods Panjurli and Guliga. In effect, you went into an alternate reality, along with the bhoota-kola dancer. There was no such staggering insight in the prequel Kantara Chapter 1. If you were expecting a spiritual high, as I was, you'd be disappointed.If on the other hand, you were looking for light entertainment on a big canvas, you'd be just fine.Thus my dilemma about the prequel: yes, it does tell a Hindu tale, and I once again wish Rishabh Shetty the best, but I wish it had left me feeling spiritually moved as the original did.1200 words, 16 Nov 2025The AI-based Malayalam podcast on this by notebookLM from Google. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rajeevsrinivasan.substack.com/subscribe

Sarah Meikle has been travelling around India for more than 25 years and now runs small group tours for those really interested in life and culture in the world's most populous country. As the Director of All India Permit Tours, and visiting cities from Delhi, Kolkata and Varanasi in the north to Kerala in the south, she is well versed with the world famous cuisine in all its forms and regional variations - from street food to top rated restaurants. She joins Kathryn having just returned from a two month trip.

In the 1950s the CIA took a keen interest in Kerala, a newly formed Indian state led, beginning in 1957, by a Communist ministry. Richard Franke describes the turbulent events that led to the ministry's dismissal and the evidence he and T. M. Thomas Isaac have unearthed about CIA stances and ambitions vis-a-vis Kerala. T. M. Thomas Isaac and Richard Franke, Toppling the First Ministry: Kerala, the CIA, and the Struggle for Social Justice Monthly Review Press, 2025 The post Kerala and the CIA appeared first on KPFA.

Why Assam CM Himanta Sarma must be happy about Bihar results, ThePrint Political Editor DK Singh explains in this episode of PoliticallyCorrect----more----Read this week's Politically Correct here: https://theprint.in/opinion/politically-correct/bihar-poll-results-bjp-prospects-assam-bengal-tamil-nadu-kerala/2785851/

In a world where the richest nation can't support their own people… One news article of many:https://scroll.in/article/1088384/beyond-statistics-the-more-important-lesson-from-keralas-poverty-eradication-initiative

Upcoming Ayurveda Retreat/ Workshop/ EventsA Two-Week Immersive Healing Experience, with Dr. Vignesh Devraj MD (Ay)Guided personally by Dr. Vignesh Devraj MD (Ay), our upcoming retreat isn't just about receiving treatments, it's about transforming the patterns that created imbalance in the first place.Dates: December 22, 2025 – January 5, 2026Venue: Sitaram X The Postcard Old Goahttps://sitaramretreat.com/ayurveda-experience/How can Ayurveda help children navigate modern-day behavioral and developmental challenges? In this insightful episode, Dr. Arun Warrier, an Ayurvedic Pediatric Specialist, joins Dr. Vignesh Devraj to explore Kaumara Bhritya.This conversation sheds light on how modern parenting, digital exposure, and lifestyle shifts impact a child's mental, emotional, and physical growth. Dr. Warrier shares practical Ayurvedic strategies, including diet (Ahara), lifestyle (Vihara), and gentle therapies.Learn why parental awareness, emotional connection, and mindful routines are as important as medicines, and how integrative care combining Ayurveda and modern pediatrics can create lasting resilience. The discussion also emphasizes inclusion, community support, and shifting the focus from labeling to discovering every child's unique talents.Key Highlights:Introduction to Kaumara BhrityaMobile addiction & new pediatric challengesCounseling parents & integrative treatmentWhat is Virtual autism?Modern childhood challengesCommon pediatric disorders treated with AyurvedaTimestamps:00:00 – 10:00: Introduction & Changing Patterns in Child Health10:00 – 20:00: Parenting, Awareness & Emotional Well-being20:00 – 30:00: Ayurvedic Approach & Integrative Care30:00 – 40:00: Developmental Milestones & Screen-time Management40:00 – 52:00: Building long-term resilience in children through mindful routinesAbout The Guest: Dr Arun B Warrier is an MD holder in Ayurveda paediatrics from the Government Ayurveda Medical College, Trivandrum, with ten years of experience in paediatric health care. He is working as an associate professor and head in the Department of Ayurveda Paediatrics (Kaumarabrithyam)at Ashtangam Ayurveda Chikitsalayam & Vidyapeedham, a reputed Ayurveda medical college in Kerala.Book a Consultation with Dr. Vignesh DevrajIf you're interested in a one-on-one Ayurvedic consultation with Dr. Vignesh Devraj, you can schedule your session through this link: https://calendly.com/drvignesh/30-minute-session-with-dr-vignesh-devraj-md-ay-ist For those facing financial difficulties, we offer limited free consultations. You may apply using the form here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd29nHcrC1RssR-6WAqWCWQWKKJo7nGcEm8ITEl2-ErcnfVEg/viewform Balance the Mighty Vata – Online Course Now AvailableAyurveda's unique strength lies in its deep understanding of Vata—the dynamic force behind Prana (life energy), the nervous system, and our emotional well-being. Managing Vata is often considered the most challenging yet crucial part of healing.To help guide you through this, I've recorded a comprehensive workshop titled “Balancing the Mighty Vata”—featuring over 6 hours of in-depth content and practical guidance you can integrate into daily life.

Indiska vandrare visade forskare en hemlig energigivande växt. Det blev starten på ett unikt samarbete som ledde till Nagoyaprotokollet för rättvis vinstdelning. Lyssna på alla avsnitt i Sveriges Radio Play. Allt började med att forskaren Palpu Pushpangandan, tidigare chefen för den botaniska trädgården och forskningsinstitutet TBGRI i Thiruvananthapuram i delstaten Kerala i Indien, lyckades komma överens med representanter från ursprungsbefolkningen Kani-folket. De avslöjade sin hemlighet och fick i gengäld löfte om framtida inkomster.Deras uppgörelse blev som en förebild för det som senare kom att kallas Nagoya-protokollet, som handlar om rättvis fördelning av inkomster från kunskaper om bland annat medicinalväxter.Hasrat Arjjummend, som forskat kring effekterna av Nagoya-protokollet, menar att intäkterna sällan kommer enskilda individer till del. Laksmikutty Amma från Kani-folket menar dessutom att det känns som att ett brott har begåtts mot skogen.I Sydafrika har man ändå lyckats med ett avtal med en hel bransch utifrån Nagoya-protokollet. Där har Rooibos-industrin tecknat avtal med ursprungsbefolkningar om att de ska få procentuell ersättning av omsättningen.I Sydafrika jobbar Stephanie Cawood, som professor i Afrikanska studier vid University Free State i Bloemfontein. Hon har på regeringens uppdrag tillsammans med ursprungsbefolkningar startat en databas för att kartlägga kunskap, som senare ska kunna leda till patent. Databasen heter NIKMAS, som är en förkortning av National Indigenous Knowledges Management Systems.Reporter Annika ÖstmanAnnika.Ostman@sverigesradio.seProducent Lars BroströmLars.Brostrom@sverigesradio. se

The Election Commission of India has announced the second phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls across 12 States, including poll-bound Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Kerala. The first phase of the SIR in Bihar has already been subjected to intense legal scrutiny in the Supreme Court, with the poll body defending the exercise even as petitioners alleged mass disenfranchisement and raised concerns over transparency. What has the Supreme Court's intervention in the Bihar SIR achieved so far? With polling already underway in the State, is the challenge to its constitutional validity now a fait accompli? And what can be expected from the petitions filed by Opposition parties, including the DMK, CPI(M), and the Congress, challenging the exercise in other States? Guest: Prashant Bhushan, advocate practising before the Supreme Court. Host: Aaratrika Bhaumik Recorded by Aniket Singh Chauhan and Lipi Vats Edited and produced by Jude Francis Weston Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Think Wildlife Podcast, we speak with Ishan Shanavas — a nature photographer, author, and founder of EcoInspire, an environmental education initiative that has already reached over 20,000 students across 70 schools in five Indian states. Through engaging storytelling, dynamic school sessions, and vivid wildlife photography, Ishan is helping shape how young people understand and appreciate biodiversity and the natural world.Growing up on road trips through the Bandipur Tiger Reserve and studying at a school nestled in the forests of Andhra Pradesh, Ishan's early experiences surrounded by wildlife sparked his lifelong passion for conservation. His bestselling book The Lighter Wilder Things became the foundation for Mission EcoInspire, a project dedicated to promoting biodiversity conservation and environmental awareness among students. Realizing that online conservation messages often remain confined to a small, like-minded audience, Ishan set out to bring these conversations directly into classrooms. His approach emphasizes the need for early biodiversity education and environmental education as essential tools to nurture empathy, understanding, and curiosity about wildlife and ecosystems.In the episode, Ishan discusses the origins of his conservation journey and the goals of EcoInspire. He reflects on the power of face-to-face interaction in conservation outreach and conservation education, sharing how simple, accessible communication can inspire students to take interest in biodiversity management and wildlife conservation. He explains how schools across cities like Bangalore, Mysore, Trivandrum, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Gulbarga have welcomed his sessions, with both teachers and students showing overwhelming enthusiasm. The program's success demonstrates that hands-on environmental engagement remains one of the most effective ways to build lasting connections with nature.Ishan also explores the role of social media in spreading environmental awareness. He highlights how platforms can amplify meaningful conservation stories when used responsibly, but also cautions against misinformation and sensationalism. He shares valuable advice for conservationists aiming to improve their communication — simplifying complex topics, avoiding technical jargon, and using creativity, humor, and visual storytelling to reach wider audiences. He mentions innovative communicators like Rohan Chakravarti (Green Humor) and the Dhole Project in Kerala, both of whom effectively use art and media to connect people with Indian biodiversity.The discussion underscores that conservation is not just about protecting species but about building emotional and cultural bridges between people and nature. Ishan's message is clear: the success of wildlife conservation and biodiversity management depends on reaching beyond scientific circles and inspiring collective action. Through EcoInspire, he is demonstrating how passionate individuals can make conservation accessible, engaging, and relevant to younger generations.By sharing his journey, Ishan shows that the heart of biodiversity conservation lies in empathy, education, and communication. Whether through a classroom presentation, a book, or a digital post, his work reminds us that protecting India's natural heritage requires inspiring the minds and hearts of those who will shape its future.Tune in to learn how one individual's commitment to conservation outreach and environmental education is inspiring thousands of young Indians to rediscover their connection with wildlife and work toward a sustainable future.About the HostAnish Banerjee is an early career ecologist, with a MSc in Ecology, Evolution and Conservation from Imperial College London. He is the founder of Think Wildlife Foundation and a biodiversity policy analyst at Legal Atlas. He is also the author of the following field guides:Field Guide to the Common Wildlife of India: https://amzn.in/d/2TnNvSEField Guide to the Mammals of Singapore: https://amzn.in/d/gcbq8VG Get full access to The Think Wildlife Podcast at anishbanerjee.substack.com/subscribe

Markert, Stefanie www.deutschlandfunk.de, Eine Welt

HEADLINES:♦ Dry Dolly Giveaway♦ 2026 Named the Year of the Family in the UAE♦ UAE Cracks Down On Shops Selling Tobacco Near Schools♦ Abu Dhabi Student Makes Record-Breaking Run in Kerala♦ How Evren Ozka Turned His Life Around: One Ultramarathon At A Time

In this Telugu podcast episode, we had one of our amazing conversations with Suma Kanakala, most commonly revered as  the queen of Telugu television, iconic anchor, actress, and household name who has hosted over 2000+ shows. She sat down with us for a  rare and unfiltered conversation. Known for her wit, spontaneity, and unmatched energy, Suma opens up like never before about her journey from Doordarshan serials to becoming Telugu TV's most celebrated female host.She shares how her unexpected entry began in the 1990s, her early serials like Geetanjali (the first Telugu show shot in the US), and how Avakkayara changed her life in 2006. Suma recalls her iconic Star Mahila days, shooting five episodes in a single day, and how a non-prime-time show became one of the most successful Telugu programs ever.The conversation turns emotional as she reflects on the paradox of fame, the cost of being Suma Kanakala, and how she manages to stay kind and composed amid criticism, rumors, and intense public life. She shares how she finds balance between her public persona and private peace, revealing stories from her Palakkad roots to her life in Hyderabad.From handling divorce rumors and creative burnout to dealing with on-stage pressure during events like Khaidi No.150, Andhrawala, and OG, Suma opens up about surviving exhaustion, emotional breakdowns, and near-death moments at stampede-prone events.She talks about parenting, women's career restarts, and how family support kept her grounded. Her stories about being 8 months pregnant during a pre-release event, facing period pain, and still performing show her strength as a working woman in the media.Suma also discusses her long association with Swarabhishekam, heartfelt memories with SP Balasubrahmanyam, and how years of heavy makeup affected her health. She dives into topics like beauty standards, financial independence, and how she stays relevant despite changing trends.With humor and honesty, she reveals fun memories from Ravi Teja's trailer event, fan wars, and Rajiv Kanakala's influence on her life. She opens up about their relationship, his accident, and her NGO and welfare work that reflect her compassion beyond the camera.Suma credits her success to her presence of mind, discipline, and theatre background, saying she still observes newcomers and evolves constantly. As she talks about language, matriarchy, and Kerala traditions, it's clear that Suma Kanakala is not just an entertainer but a symbol of resilience, reinvention, and grace. 

ThePrintAM: What's the controversy over PM-SHRI schools scheme in Kerala?

LDF eyes hat-trick win in 2026 assembly elections, with Kerala also set to witness local body polls in December. For the new steps, the govt will incur expenditure of Rs 10,000 cr.----more----https://theprint.in/politics/polls-on-horizon-pinarayi-govt-makes-big-moves-hikes-in-pension-asha-workers-honorarium-new-schemes/2773403/

Ananthu Aji was made to join Sangh in his childhood by his father. The 26-year-old who was found dead in a lodge in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday evening.  

In 2026, your personal brand is your digital identity — and podcasting is one of the most powerful ways to build it. In this episode, we explore how creators, students, entrepreneurs, and professionals from Kerala and across India can use podcasting to grow visibility, credibility, and trust.We break down:✅ Why podcasting is booming in India (100+ million listeners!)✅ How Malayalam creators can build authentic, regional personal brands✅ Real strategies for growing your podcast audience✅ Step-by-step launch roadmap for beginners✅ 2026 trends that give early creators a massive advantageWhether you're a researcher, creative, or business owner, this episode will help you leverage your voice as a branding tool. No expensive gear required — just clarity, consistency, and your unique story.

Rajiv Malhotra's talk at the recent launch event of the book Breaking India (Malayalam translation) in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.The Hon'ble Governor of Kerala, Sri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, graced the event.Who Is Raising Your Children? - https://whoisraisingyourchildren.com/Battle For Consciousness Theory - http://battleforconsciousnesstheory.comSnakes in the Ganga - http://www.snakesintheganga.comVarna Jati Caste - http://www.varnajaticaste.comThe Battle For IIT's - http://www.battleforiits.comPower of future Machines - http://www.poweroffuturemachines.com10 heads of Ravana - http://www.tenheadsofravana.comTo support Infinity Foundation's projects including the continuation of such episodes and the research we do:इनफिनिटी फ़ौंडेशन की परियोजनाओं को अनुदान देने के लिए व इस प्रकार के एपिसोड और हमारे द्वारा किये जाने वाले शोध को जारी रखने के लिए: http://infinityfoundation.com/donate-2/

The Hon'ble Governor of Kerala, Sri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, shared his thoughts on the book 'Breaking India' at the launch of its Malayalam version recently in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Who Is Raising Your Children? - https://whoisraisingyourchildren.com/Battle For Consciousness Theory - http://battleforconsciousnesstheory.comSnakes in the Ganga - http://www.snakesintheganga.comVarna Jati Caste - http://www.varnajaticaste.comThe Battle For IIT's - http://www.battleforiits.comPower of future Machines - http://www.poweroffuturemachines.com10 heads of Ravana - http://www.tenheadsofravana.comTo support Infinity Foundation's projects including the continuation of such episodes and the research we do:इनफिनिटी फ़ौंडेशन की परियोजनाओं को अनुदान देने के लिए व इस प्रकार के एपिसोड और हमारे द्वारा किये जाने वाले शोध को जारी रखने के लिए: http://infinityfoundation.com/donate-2/

Rajiv Malhotra recently had a riveting conversation with the girls of Aarsha Vidya Samajam at Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Their stories of conversion to Islam and back to their roots have some important lessons for the Hindu society. Their stories highlight the importance of Purvapaksha that he has extensively discussed & explained in his numerous books. Stay tuned for Part 2.Who Is Raising Your Children? - https://whoisraisingyourchildren.com/Battle For Consciousness Theory - http://battleforconsciousnesstheory.comSnakes in the Ganga - http://www.snakesintheganga.comVarna Jati Caste - http://www.varnajaticaste.comThe Battle For IIT's - http://www.battleforiits.comPower of future Machines - http://www.poweroffuturemachines.com10 heads of Ravana - http://www.tenheadsofravana.comTo support Infinity Foundation's projects including the continuation of such episodes and the research we do:इनफिनिटी फ़ौंडेशन की परियोजनाओं को अनुदान देने के लिए व इस प्रकार के एपिसोड और हमारे द्वारा किये जाने वाले शोध को जारी रखने के लिए: http://infinityfoundation.com/donate-2/

Send us a textKathy and Ramesh react to the trailer for BALTI, an 2025 Indian sports action film written and directed by debutant Unni Sivalingam. Produced by STK Frames and Binu George Alexander Productions, the film stars Shane Nigam, Shanthanu Bhagyaraj, and Preethi Asrani with Alphonse Puthren and Poornima Indrajith in supporting roles. Due to the film's setting in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, it contains dialogue in both Malayalam and Tamil languages. It marks Shanthanu's comeback in Malayalam cinema after 16 years.Support the show

In today's world of polarization, climate disruption, and rapid digital change, resilience is everything.On this episode of The Caring Economy, we sit down with Asha Varghese, President of the Caterpillar Foundation and Head of CSR at Caterpillar. Asha reflects on her journey from Kerala, India, to rural Kentucky, and how those experiences shaped her approach to corporate leadership and purpose.She shares how Caterpillar has given over $1 billion globally, supporting disaster recovery, education, and sustainability initiatives. We also discuss the future of work, the rise of AI, and why corporations must play a role in rebuilding trust and community resilience.Asha's story is a reminder that leadership isn't about grand gestures, it's about persistence, partnership, and impact over time.Listen in for lessons on how business can become a force for resilience in a fragile world.

Arundhati Roy's internationally best-selling novels include The God of Small Things and The Ministry of Utmost Happiness.  Her nonfiction works engage elegantly and passionately with class and power, among other issues.  Roy's new memoir, Mother Mary Comes to Me, examines her childhood in Kerala, India, and a mother whose commitment to justice and education made her a powerful force in the community – but whose volatility made for a challenging family life that included emotional abuse. On September 19, 2025, Arundhati Roy came to the Sydney Goldstein Theater in San Francisco to read from her memoir and hold an on-stage conversation with journalist Deepa Fernandes.