Podcast appearances and mentions of Meera Syal

This episode of Kermode on Film is the third and last part of the 100th edition of the MK3D show, recorded live at the BFI Southbank on 10 March 2025.In this episode, Mark talks to two great friends of the show, Sanjeev Baskhar and Meera Syal, and he says hello to Jason Isaacs.People mentioned in this episode:Sanjeev BaskharMeera SyalJason IsaacsBen WheatleyJeanie Finlay Alan ParkerElvis PresleyToby JonesRichard BurtonSamantha MortonJames BondKiefer SutherlandLaurence OlivierLaurence Llewelyn-BowenHarold PinterLee EvansMaxine PeakeMike WhiteJimmy FallonKelly ClarksonDarius RuckerNorman WisdomThe BeatlesFilms, plays and tv series mentioned in this episode:A Tupperware of AshesFlaming StarUnforgottenTinsel TownMacbethWhite LotusAngels in AmericaThe BillThe Dumb WaiterCapital CityHarry PotterWhite LotusHoney BunchThe Salt Path———————The opening title sequence of Kermode on Film uses quotes from:- Mary Poppins, directed by Robert Stevenson and distributed by Walt Disney Motion Pictures – quote featuring Julie Andrews.- Nope, written, directed and produced by Jordan Peele, and distributed by Universal Studios – quote featuring Keke Palmer.- Withnail & I, written and directed by Bruce Robinson, and distributed by HandMade Films – quote featuring Richard E Grant.- The Exorcist, written by William Peter Blatty and directed by William Friedkin, distributed by Warner Brothers – quote featuring Ellen Burstyn and Linda Blair.We love these films. We urge you to seek them out, and watch them, again and again.They are masterpieces!Kermode on Film is an HLA Agency production.Cover photo by Julie Edwards.This episode was edited by Alex Archbold Jones.© HLA Agency Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week's MK3D was the 100th edition and this special milestone show featured a fabulous and diverse array of conversations about film culture: some great friends of the show who have graced the stage before, and some new filmmaking talent. At the top of the show the CEO of the BFI Ben Roberts leaped onto the stage to congratulate everyone involved on being the longest running and most successful strand at the BFI, ever.First up Mark welcomes Samantha Morton on stage to talk about her work as an actress, director, writer and musician. Sam talks about her directorial feature The Unloved, as well as her role in She Said, and the changes needed in the film industry. Next, Alan Jones joins Mark to talk about his new book Discomania, a glorious celebration of Disco, Punk, and Alan's unique, trail-blazing career in the Horror, Science Fiction and Fantasy film arenas. Alan talks about his connections with Chrissie Hynde and David Bowie, the Sex Pistols and Vivienne Westwood, and some of the disco movies in the book including Music Machine, starring Patty Boulaye.The next two episodes will feature Karan Kandhari, Toby Jones, Meera Syal, Sanjeev Baskhar and Jason Isaacs. Keep watching the skies!———————The opening title sequence of Kermode on Film uses quotes from:- Mary Poppins, directed by Robert Stevenson and distributed by Walt Disney Motion Pictures – quote featuring Julie Andrews.- Nope, written, directed and produced by Jordan Peele, and distributed by Universal Studios – quote featuring Keke Palmer.- Withnail & I, written and directed by Bruce Robinson, and distributed by HandMade Films – quote featuring Richard E Grant.- The Exorcist, written by William Peter Blatty and directed by William Friedkin, distributed by Warner Brothers – quote featuring Ellen Burstyn and Linda Blair.We love these films. We urge you to seek them out, and watch them, again and again.They are masterpieces!Kermode on Film is an HLA Agency production.Cover photo by Julie Edwards.This episode was edited by Alex Archbold Jones.© HLA Agency Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Danny Robins hosts the visualised podcast for real-life supernatural encounters.The Charity Shop Poltergeist is the story of Sybil, the manager of a charity shop in the home counties. Sybil and her fellow workers feel and hear a strange presence, objects seemingly move by themselves, and the apparition of a man is seen by staff and customers. Who is the presence that seemingly haunts the shop?Danny Robins delves deeper into Sybil's story in this extended podcast episode, uncovering fresh evidence, new leads and intriguing revelations about this case.Assisting Danny in his search for answers are regular paranormal experts Dr Ciarán O'Keeffe and Evelyn Hollow, who'll further analyse the charity shop's unsettling poltergeist activity; witnesses Sybil and Sophie, to share more frightening stories from their time working at the shop; and celebrity guest expert and Uncanny superfan Meera Syal, who'll reveal her stand-out moments from the episode.Written and presented by Danny Robins Experts: Evelyn Hollow and Ciaran O'Keeffe Special guest: Meera Syal Editing and sound design: Nick Price and Charlie Brandon-King Theme music by Gazelle Twin Produced by Danny Robins and Simon BarnardDon't miss Uncanny: Post Mortem: Uncanny TV show – BBC2/iplayer Uncanny Post Mortem visualised podcast – BBC2/iplayer Uncanny Post Mortem podcast – BBC SoundsA Bafflegab and Uncanny Media production for BBC Radio 4

It's fairly well known that the role of Detective Harry Callahan was originally set to be played by Frank Sinatra, before he had to pull out as production neared. Yet when Clint Eastwood decided to accept, he had several versions of a script to choose from - and decided to put a call into someone he trusted: Don Siegel. The pair would go on to fashion a cinema classic. The journey to 2002's Anita And Me meanwhile began with the publication of Meera Syal's semi-autobiographical novel in 1996. Work began to then turn it into a film - but the challenge of making an independent film in the UK, with two young, unknown leads? That'd be quite the test. Stories of both are told in this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr Hilary Cass, now Baroness Cass, led a four year review into children's gender identity services in England. Her final report concluded that children had been let down by a lack of research and "remarkably weak" evidence on medical interventions, and called for gender services for young people to match the standards of other NHS care. In an exclusive interview Nuala McGovern gets Dr Hilary Cass's reflections six months on from releasing her landmark report.A Tupperware of Ashes is a play which follows an ambitious Michelin-Star chef, Queenie, played by Meera Syal. It's a family drama about life, immigration and the Indian spiritual cycle of death and rebirth written by playwright Tanika Gupta. Both women joined Anita Rani to talk about the play which is currently on at the National Theatre.Mums say that the UK's system for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) is broken. An opinion poll from Opinium commissioned by Woman's Hour for a programme on SEND last month revealed that only half of mothers believe their child with SEND is well supported in school, and those in Scotland are the least likely to feel this way. Krupa Padhy takes a look at what is going on behind the scenes with Julie Allan, Professor of Equity and Inclusion at the University of Birmingham; Bev Alderson, National Executive Member of the teaching union NASUWT and Jo Van Herwegen. Professor of Developmental Psychology and Education at University College London.Bestselling author Sophie Kinsella, known for the hugely popular Shopaholic series and many other bestsellers, talks to Nuala about her latest novel, What Does It Feel Like? It is her most autobiographical yet and tells the story of a novelist who wakes up in a hospital bed with no memory of how she got there and learns she's had surgery to remove a large tumour growing in her brain. She must re-learn how to walk, talk, and write. Six months ago, Sophie shared with her readers on social media that in 2022, she had been diagnosed with glioblastoma, a type of aggressive brain cancer. It is known for its poor prognosis with only 25% of people surviving more than one year, and only 5% survive more than five years.A new report from the British Pregnancy Advisory Service, BPAS, looks into what women want from contraception, the innovations in non-hormonal contraception, and the contraceptive options available to men. Anita was joined by CEO of BPAS Heidi Stewart and 28-year-old Charlotte whose contraceptive pill gave her severe migraines for more than two years before the connection was made.The Northumbrian electro-folk musician Frankie Archer has performed at Glastonbury and The BBC Proms, been featured on ‘Later... With Jools Holland', and named as One To Watch! She has released a new EP 'Pressure and Persuasion', through which she tells the stories of four women and girls from centuries past who navigate the same expectations that are put on women today. Frankie joined Nuala to talk about womanhood, tradfolk and to perform her current single, Elsie Marley.Presenter: Krupa Padhy Producer: Annette Wells Editor: Rebecca Myatt

Welcome back!This episode is the second half of an MK3D show recorded live at the BFI Southbank on 16 September 2024. Aryion Bakare joins Mark to discuss his role in the upcoming series Mr. Loverman, Stars Wars, and the man who influenced him to pursue a career on-screen.Next, Mark welcomes the incredible Meera Syal to talk about her prolific career in comedy, TV, film, and the stage - what can't she do? Meera reminisces about past projects and ends by sharing her guilty pleasure films.---------------The opening title sequence of Kermode on Film uses quotes from:- Mary Poppins, directed by Robert Stevenson and distributed by Walt Disney Motion Pictures – quote featuring Julie Andrews.-Nope, written, directed and produced by Jordan Peele, and distributed by Universal Studios – quote featuring Keke Palmer.-Withnail & I, written and directed by Bruce Robinson, and distributed by HandMade Films – quote featuring Richard E Grant.-The Exorcist, written by William Peter Blatty and directed by William Friedkin, distributed by Warner Brothers – quote featuring Ellen Burstyn and Linda Blair.We love these films. We urge you to seek them out, and watch them, again and again. They are masterpieces!Kermode on Film is an HLA Agency production.This episode was edited by Alex Archbold Jones.© HLA AgencyHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hurricane Milton landed today in Florida, battering the US state with winds of around 120 miles per hour. Residents were warned to evacuate for their own safety - but some have stayed. Professor of Risk and Hazard at Durham University Lucy Easthope joins Anita Rani to look at the women who stay behind in these situations, and their reasons behind this, as well as whether disaster planning reflects gender differences.A Tupperware of Ashes is a play which follows an ambitious Michelin-Star chef, Queenie, played by Meera Syal. It's a family drama about life, immigration and the Indian spiritual cycle of death and rebirth written by playwright Tanika Gupta. Both women join Anita to talk about the play which is currently on at the National Theatre. A new report from the British Pregnancy Advisory Service, BPAS, looks into what women want from contraception, the innovations in non-hormonal contraception, and the contraceptive options available to men. Anita is joined by CEO of BPAS Heidi Stewart and 28-year-old Charlotte whose contraceptive pill gave her severe migraines for more than two years before the connection was made. Swedish singer-songwriter, rapper and producer Neneh Cherry first achieved global success in 1988 with her hit Buffalo Stance. She now has released a beautiful and personal memoir, A Thousand Threads. Neneh joins Anita to talk more about her life and career, and the stories she tells in the book. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Lottie Garton

Jason Solomons and Kate Maltby join Tom to review Those About to Die, the new 10-part ‘sword and sandal' series from Amazon Prime, directed by Roland Emmerich and starring Anthony Hopkins. The film Thelma which follows an elderly grandmother who turns action hero to track down her scammer, inspired by her favourite film series – Mission Impossible. And Echo at the Royal Court, the new play from the Iranian playwright Nassim Soleimanpour, starring a new unrehearsed performer every night. The likes of Meera Syal and Adrian Lester take to the stage while guided by Soleimanpour live from his flat in Berlin.Plus Belle and Sebastian perform live ahead of their upcoming festival The Glasgow Weekender. Presenter: Tom Sutcliffe Producer: Claire Bartleet

Garrett Millerick's breakout television performance was on the hit US late-night talk show Conan. His live show Sunflower became one of the best reviewed and most talked about shows of 2018, both at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and subsequently at London's Soho Theatre. The show was Time Out London's No.1 Comedy Pick and saw Garrett receive a nomination for ‘Breakthrough Act' at the 2019 Chortle Awards. Garrett has since followed up the show with Smile and Just Trying to Help. The Times called Smile one of the stand out shows of the year and The British Comedy Guide named it one of the best reviewed shows of the year. All three shows transferred to London before touring the UK and have been recorded by 800 Pound Gorilla Records to stream and purchase internationally. His show Just Trying to Help was nominated for best show at the Leicester Comedy Festival and also received critical acclaim at the 2022 Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Garrett is currently working on a new sitcom which previously recorded a pilot for Audible produced by Hat Trick Productions and starring Jack Dee and Meera Syal .Garrett Millerick is guest number 405 on My Time Capsule and chats to Michael Fenton Stevens about the five things he'd like to put in a time capsule; four he'd like to preserve and one he'd like to bury and never have to think about again .Get tickets for Garrett Millerick's Edinburgh show here - https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/garrett-millerick-needs-more-space .Follow Garrett Millerick on Twitter & Instagram: @millerickcomedy .Follow My Time Capsule on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook: @MyTCpod .Follow Michael Fenton Stevens on Twitter: @fentonstevens & Instagram @mikefentonstevens .Produced and edited by John Fenton-Stevens for Cast Off Productions .Music by Pass The Peas Music .Artwork by matthewboxall.com .This podcast is proud to be associated with the charity Viva! Providing theatrical opportunities for hundreds of young people. Get bonus episodes and ad-free listening by becoming a team member with Acast+! Your support will help us to keep making My Time Capsule. Join our team now! https://plus.acast.com/s/mytimecapsule. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

June 2024 Book Club:  We're going undercover with the 11th Doctor, Amy, and Rory as we investigate some timey-wimey activities in “Borrowed Time,” by Naomi A. Alderman.  First published in June 2011, it was republished in 2018 and is also available as an unabridged audiobook read by Meera Syal.  Happy reading!     Learn more about Pertwee's Take-away & Burgers here.   Please help other Doctor Who fans find our show - by leaving us a rating on Apple Podcasts or your podcatcher of choice. Submit your comments via email… “who knows,” we may end up reading your feedback on the podcast!   Facebook: http://facebook.com/allnewdoctorwhobookclub   Twitter: @ANDWBCPodcast BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/andwbcpodcast.bsky.social   YouTube: https://youtube.com/@DoctorWhoBookClub   Email: ANDWBCPodcast@gmail.com  

Paul welcomes the amazing multi-award-winning British actress, comedian, and writer, Meera Syal.With a career that boasts iconic works such as “Goodness Gracious Me,” “The Kumars at Number 42,” “Bhaji On The Beach,” “Anita And Me,” and “My Sister and Wife,” Meera's contributions to the entertainment industry are truly remarkable and legendary.Meera discusses being presented with the prestigious BAFTA Fellowship in 2023, her outstanding contribution to the TV and Film industry, embracing the title of ‘Auntie', and the Multi-Purpose Chunni... “use it to get frost of the car” - Paul Chowdhry 2024Instagram: @paulchowdhry + @meera.syal

A new drama about motherhood and chaos, from Olivier-Award-winning writer Lolita Chakrabarti, starring Meera Syal.Three generations of ultra-successful women in one family:Maya, a self-help guru with an avid following, has an American TV deal in the offing. Nina, her daughter, a psychiatrist, is expanding her thriving practice. Amber, Nina's daughter, has an offer from Cambridge.But a fault line will soon tear everything apart.Deeply visceral, often sharply funny, Calmer explores mental health and the intense love and competition in mother-daughter relationships.By Lolita ChakrabartiMaya…. Meera SyalNina… Lolita ChakrabartiAmber… Payal MistryMichael… Julian WadhamJude… Benjamin WesterbyGrace… Sophie MelvilleProduction co-ordinator: Lindsay ReesOriginal music… Lee AffenSound design: Nigel LewisDirected by Fay LomasA BBC Audio Drama Wales Production

Imagine having an idea so engaging that you make Anjelica Huston want to talk about Tupperware. Well, hello journalist Annabelle Hirsch, whose book, A History of Women in 101 Objects, is a fascinating walk through female history via, well, 101 objects.  The book came out last October and is well worth your eyes, but if you like to get your ears involved and the voices of Helena Bonham Carter, Leila Slimani, Olivia Colman, Margaret Atwood and Meera Syal, to name but a few, tickle your pickle, then the audiobook of Annabelle's work is a thing of joy. Annabelle's chatting to our Mick in this week's podzine about how objects – some everyday, some remarkable – can provide a deep dive into women's lives throughout history.  There's more herstory this week, as Jen's been chatting to documentary makers Rachel Ramsay and Victoria Gregory about COPA 71, their new feature documentary in which the pioneering footballers in Mexico's unofficial 1971 Women's World Cup tell their remarkable story. It was a tournament that witnessed record crowds, but has been largely written out of sporting history and the stories of it – and indeed the stories behind the making of this documentary about it – are compelling.  There's more compelling this week, in the form of Glenn Close and John Malkovich, doing some magnificent work in Hannah's Rated or Dated pick: 1989's Dangerous Liaisons. Any excuse for Mick's French-via-Delboy accent, eh? Plus, drop shots, cheap shots and poor form all round in the Bush Telegraph.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth celebrate young voices from across the Commonwealth featuring special guests, Ayesha Dharker, Joanna Lumley, Meera Syal and Sanjeev Bhaskar. We hear from the two young winners of the Queen's Commonwealth Essay Competition, 17 year old Siddhi Deshmukh - the Senior Winner from India, and 13 year old Shreeya Sahi - the Junior Winner also from India, with excerpts from their winning contributions on the theme of 'A Youth-Powered Commonwealth'. Poems this episode include: The Blessed Virgin compared to the Air we Breathe by Gerard Manley Hopkins; The Highwayman by Alfred Noyes; La Belle Dame sans Merci: A Ballad by John Keats; and Nod by Walter De La Mare. As well as excerpts from the winning Queen's Commonwealth Essay Competition stories: ‘An Angel That Burns' by Senior Winner Siddhi Deshmukh; and 'Dear Little Prince' by Junior Winner Shreeya Sahi. 

Up to half of women will have a UTI at some point in their life. Earlier this year the NHS launched a new awareness campaign which the filmaker and author Kate Muir has criticised for not mentioning vaginal oestrogen as a treatment. Kate joins Krupa Padhy alongside Dr Olivia Hum, a GP who is on the Council of the British Menopause Society. Dr Ronny Cheung speaks to Krupa about the double-edge sword of children building their immunities in their early years and the disruption caused to working parents and carers. What do parents need to know about caring for a child with seasonal colds and coughs? Sally Snowman is the last official lighthouse keeper in the United States and at the end of this month she will retire after two decades of service. She's the first and last woman to be the lighthouse keeper for Boston Light in Massachusetts. She joins Krupa to discuss what it's like being a lighthouse keeper and how she feels about leaving it.We know that Christmas and New Year, although filled with joy for some, can put a really big strain on relationships and it can be a time when people in an unhappy relationship decide to end them. But is there ever a good way to break up a relationship? And is it ever acceptable or kinder to end something by text? Krupa is joined by Olivia Petter, journalist and author of Millennial Love and Vicky Spratt, journalist and documentary maker.The award winning comedian, writer, playwright and actor Meera Syal – known for her comedy series such as Goodness Gracious Me and The Kumars - has been talking to Ros Akins on Radio 4's Media Show, we can hear some of that interview.Presenter: Krupa Padhy Producer: Emma Pearce

When she graduated from university, Meera Syal says she couldn't see a future for a young Asian woman in showbusiness. Four decades later, on top of an MBE and CBE for services to drama and literature, in 2023 she's been awarded a prestigious BAFTA Fellowship and this month Women in Film and TV has given her a Lifetime Achievement Award. Meera tells Ros about her trailblazing career showcasing unheard British Asian stories, including hit comedies Goodness Gracious Me and The Kumars at No. 42, and her early screenplay Bhaji on the Beach. Meera also reflects on how the TV industry has changed and the work still left to do.Presenter: Ros AtkinsProducer: Simon Richardson

Nina Wadia OBE is best known from the ground braking sketch show Goodness Gracious Me alongside Sanjeev Bhaskar, Meera Syal and Kulvinder Ghir and as Zainab Massood in Eastenders for 6 years. She's also been in the Jasper Carrot sitcom All About Me, 2 Point 4 Children, The Vicar of Dibley, Holby City, Skins, Chambers, Waking the Dead, Citizen Khan, Death in Paradise, Doctor Who, Finding Fatima, Still Open All Hours, Murder in Mind, Doctors and New Tricks. She also been in the films Bend it like Beckham, I Can't Think Straight, Code 46, Sixth Happiness and Namaste London. She was a contestant in the nineteenth series of Strictly Come Dancing and been a presenter on Loose Women. Naina won best comedy performance at the British Soap Awards, as well as best on screen partnership within Nitin Ganatra and in 2013 was awarded the Outstanding Achievement in Television award at the Asian Awards.Nina Wadia is guest number 292 on My Time Capsule and chats to Michael Fenton Stevens about the five things she'd like to put in a time capsule; four she'd like to preserve and one she'd like to bury and never have to think about again .Follow Nina Wadia on Twitter: @Nina_Wadia & Instagram @nina.wadia .Follow My Time Capsule on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook: @MyTCpod .Follow Michael Fenton Stevens on Twitter: @fentonstevens and Instagram @mikefentonstevens .Produced and edited by John Fenton-Stevens for Cast Off Productions .Music by Pass The Peas Music .Artwork by matthewboxall.com .This podcast is proud to be associated with the charity Viva! Providing theatrical opportunities for hundreds of young people. Get this podcast ad-free by becoming a team member with Acast+! Your support will help us to keep making My Time Capsule. Join our team now! https://plus.acast.com/s/mytimecapsule. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Joe, Jen, and Tom cover the latest news, including release timing, season 3 scenes, and, oh yeah, the casting of one of the best characters in the series, Verin Mathwin!! Get some stretching in with Joe, as he wants Verin to get outside! Get dopey as Tom explains the benefit of being an idiot! Learn along with Jen as she teaches medicine! All this, plus we accuse Wikipedia of disrespect! As always, spoilers abound, as do Mother's Day wishes!https://twitter.com/AranTalk/status/1656475454495129601?s=20https://nerdist.com/article/the-wheel-of-time-meera-syal-playing-verin-mathwin-aes-sedai/https://www.instagram.com/p/CsCId4HI0EQ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==Support the showhttps://www.talkaranrhiod.com/Rate/review us: https://tinyurl.com/udspfm5eTwitter: @arantalkInstagram: talk_aran_rhiodDiscord: https://dsc.gg/talkaranrhiodYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TalkaranrhiodEmail: podcast@talkaranrhiod.comMerch: https://www.newcreationsbyjen.com/collections/talkaranrhiod

In this episode, Joe, Jen and Tom talk the writer's strike, casting news, and more, before jumping into a deep dive of the surprisingly handsome Dain Bornhald! Listen as Jen creates a hotness scale! Marvel with Joe at Tarabon ancestry! Get your theory on with Tom! All that, plus possible Cinco de Mayo mistakes! As always, spoilers abound, as does conversations about funny hats!News: https://www.siasat.com/british-indian-meera-syal-to-be-awarded-bafta-tv-fellowship-2579652/https://www.wotseries.com/2023/05/04/anthony-kaye-and-more-join-the-wheel-of-time-cast/https://twitter.com/rafejudkins/status/1653811884578029568?s=20https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViIHtw8msZQSupport the showhttps://www.talkaranrhiod.com/Rate/review us: https://tinyurl.com/udspfm5eTwitter: @arantalkInstagram: talk_aran_rhiodDiscord: https://dsc.gg/talkaranrhiodYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TalkaranrhiodEmail: podcast@talkaranrhiod.comMerch: https://www.newcreationsbyjen.com/collections/talkaranrhiod

Poppy & Rubina meet their ultimate brown girl, Meera Syal! Yes, they fan-girled... hard!

In this bonus episode of Off Air, Jane and Fi are live from WOW - Women of the World Festival at the Royal Festival Hall in London.They're joined onstage by comedian and writer Meera Syal and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner June Oscar.If you want to contact the show to ask a question and get involved in the conversation then please email us: janeandfi@times.radioAssistant Producer: Kea BrowningTimes Radio Producer: Rosie Cutler Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you work out what you want to say and what you think people are expecting? If you want to speak up, how do you know where to start?  In this new batch of episodes coming up over the next few weeks we're going to dig into our archive of over 150 interviews. In these weekly masterclasses, each episode will tackle the things that really matter: confidence, overcoming nerves, imposter syndrome. This week, Viv looks into what makes a great speech - or knowing what to say.  Hillary Clinton advises being self-deprecating and hopes that women can own their individuality, while tech activist Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon thinks about what she wants her audience to walk away with. For actress Meera Syal, the most important part of sharing stories is that it allows us to understand each other, share our empathy, experience, history and view of the world. Viv's new book, Happy High Status: How to Be Effortlessly Confident, is available for preorder. @vivgroskop

The Hollywood actor Michelle Williams began her career aged 16 on the TV drama Dawson's Creek. Now, at 42, she's starring in Steven Spielberg's new film The Fabelmans, based on his own family. She plays Mitzi, a concert pianist who's put her artistic ambition aside to raise a family, and is struggling to play a supporting role to her computer genius husband. But the crucial relationship portrayed in the movie is the one between Mitzi and her son, Sammy. Michelle joins Anita to explain why she was attracted to the role. There are an estimated 2.1 million people in the UK experiencing self-reported long covid, according to data from the Office for National Statistics which affects women more than men. But in the NHS priorities and operational planning guidance for 2023-24, no mention was made of Long Covid. Dr Binita Kane is a Consultant Respiratory Physician in Manchester. She also has a daughter with long covid and knows the challenges that causes and is worried that Long Covid has been deprioritised. She is joined by Dr Melissa Heightman, clinical lead for Post Covid services at University College Hospital London, and the National speciality advisor with the long covid programme for NHS England. Some outfits grab all the attention. Think Lady Gaga's meat dress, Madonna's Cone bra or J Lo in her plunge neck green Versace dress. Well Monday night saw the return of the ITV dating show Love Island but it was the outfit worn by the new host Maya Jama that got everyone talking. It was sexy, and red, and - you might be surprised to know - crocheted. The person who made it is the young designer Sierra Ndagire who joins Anita. It's been 25 years since Goodness Gracious Me graced our television screens on BBC 2. It was the first comedy sketch show conceived, written and performed by British Asians. Anita Rani chats with the multi-hyphenate artists, Meera Syal and Nina Wadia from the original ensemble cast. They discuss how they birthed a new “Asian Comedy” genre and its role today, getting spotted in a restaurant by George Michael, and some of their infamous sketches that added a new lens to British women.

Granny Kumar is back. After a very successful first series Meera Syal's glorious comedy creation returns, with her great granddaughter Maya (Ambreen Razia) and arch nemesis “frenemy” Geeta (Harvey Virdi), to chat with the sisters. "This entertaining anecdote-packed show... creating a party vibe that brings out the best in her female guests." The Observer "It treads a fine line between the earnest and the rip-roaringly funny... It's the intimacy that makes it" Radio Times Ummi Kumar gathers together her favourite extraordinary women at Wembley Community Centre, aided by her millennial great granddaughter Maya and her arch nemesis “frenemy” Geeta, leader of the local Asian Ladies Silver Bats community group. The show is a women only party, where they share stories, laugh loads and chew the fat/dish the dirt/eat the laddoos… A blend of sitcom, silliness and improvised chat, led by the best kind of interviewers who know how to make anyone talk - two really nosey old Indian women. This series, we'll be inspired and entertained by Episode 1: Casualty and Ackley Brisge star Sunetra Sarker, and BBC Breakfast presenter and journalist Naga Munchetty Episode 2: Multi Olivier award winning actress Sharon D Clark, and stand-up comedian Shazia Mirza Episode 3: Playwright and novelist Bonnie Greer, and We Are Lady Parts breakout star Anjana Vasan Episode 4: Vigil and Sarah Jane Adventures star Anjli Mohindra, and musician and presenter Myleene Klass Cast: Ummi Kumar – Meera Syal Geeta Bhandari – Harvey Virdi Maya Kumar – Ambreen Razia Written by Meera Syal Music by Sanjeev Bhaskar Producer: Liz Anstee A CPL production, licensed by Hat Trick Productions, for BBC Radio 4

On cutting her comedy teeth writing and performing for The Real McCoy TV show, having her semi-autobiographical novel Anita & Me become a GCSE set text, and the moving story behind her father's experience of the Partition of India. Comedian, writer, playwright, singer, journalist and actress Meera Syal goes Out To Lunch with Jay. Meera and Jay dine on a delicious meal courtesy of Pizarro: https://josepizarro.com/venues/pizarro-restaurant-bermondsey/ Out To Lunch is a Somethin' Else and Jay Rayner Production with Sony Music Entertainment. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visitmegaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anita Anand in conversation with actor Meera Syal and Professor Keira Vaclavik, Professor of Children's Literature and Childhood Culture, Queen Mary University of London. Meera brings Babette Cole's literary creation, Princess Smartypants as her favourite princess. The subversive lead character who puts prospective princes through their paces before inadvertently turning her future husband into a toad. Meera discusses the princesses of her childhood and how Princess Smartypants was the perfect role model for her daughter.Produced by Audio Always Producer: Ailsa Rochester Editor: Jo Meeks Sound: Rob Green

The “You Don't Know Jackie” gang is talking about episodes 7 and 8 of the Apple TV+ anthology series ROAR.Episode 7: The Woman Who Returned Her Husband A woman (Meera Syal) returns her husband. Literally.Episode 8:   The Girl Who Loved HorsesA girl (Fivel Stewart) loves horses. Her friend (Kara Hayward) does not.Join the You Don't Know Jackie Patreon  TODAY!!!Show links:Yellowjackets Podcast: A You Don't Know Jackie View:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/yellowjackets-podcast-a-you-dont-know-jackie-view/id1595350780You Don't Know Jackie Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/you-dont-know-jackie/id1468991220Squid Game Podcast: A You Don't Know Jackie View:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/squid-game-podcast-a-you-dont-know-jackie-view/id1589712731You Don't Know Jackie Facebook:https://m.facebook.com/You-Dont-Know-Jackie-360294407942565/You Don't Know Jackie Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/youdontknowjackie/?r=nametagYou Don't Know Jackie Twitter:https://mobile.twitter.com/JackiepodcastYou Don't Wanna Know Corey Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/youdontwannaknowcorey/?r=nametagSupport the show

Helen Fitzgerald grew up in rural Australia as one of 13 siblings. Her new novel Keep Her Sweet looks at what happens when 'normal' sibling rivalry turns into something else. She joins Krupa to explain why she's so fascinated by the dark corners of family life. When was the last time you saw a nun? It feels like a very old-fashioned vocation – and there are less and less in the public eye now. But some nuns in the US are turning to Tik Tok to bring religion into the 21st century through social media. The Daughters of St Paul are known as the ‘media nuns' on Tik Tok, they do skits and dances, and have millions of followers worldwide. Then Sister Monica Clare from the Community of St John the Baptist went viral because she was on Tik Tok and everyone wanted to know her skin routine…now she answers people's questions about being a nun. And, of course, we've got everyone's favourite - less PC nun – Sister Michael from Derry Girls, played by Siobhan McSweeney. Women attending abortion clinics in the UK can face “regular harassment” according to a report from BBC Newsnight. Anti-abortion groups who gather outside services say they're holding “prayer vigils” and offering help but some patients say they have been so distressed they've had panic attacks or even felt suicidal. Now charities are calling for protected areas outside all services which activists cannot legally enter. More than 100,000 women in the UK attended abortion services targeted by activists in 2019, according to latest data from the British Pregnancy Advisory Service, which is a leading provider of abortions. Anna Collinson is the Newsnight Correspondent who compiled the report. It's four years since journalist and actor Nicky Clark founded the Acting Your Age Campaign. Incensed by the lack of middle-aged women on stage, television and in film, and rarely seeing stories of women like herself portrayed, she has attracted a lot of support from women such as Meera Syal, Tracy-Ann Obermann and MP Jess Phillips. Actor and fellow-supporter, Juliet Stevenson joins Nicky and presenter Krupa Padhy to explain why it appears male actors on screen ‘have a whole life and women have a shelf life' and why this campaign is necessary.

W116: Roar This new anthology series from AppleTV+ features 8 woman centric stories starring Issa Rae, Nicole Kidman, Betty Gilpin, Cynthia Erivo, Merritt Weaver, Alison Brie, Meera Syal and Fivel Stewart. Go check out Roar on AppleTV+! See what I'm watching on TV TIME: https://www.tvtime.com/en/user/46112465/profile SHOP WITH LAZADA: https://bit.ly/3hb5Nku SUPPORT THE SHOW: Buy us Kofi: https://ko-fi.com/wreviewpodcast A proud member of PIPE Network (Pilipinas Indie Podcast and Entertainment Network). --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/wreviewpodcast/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/wreviewpodcast/support

This week on the show Stephen Mulhern welcomes friends from the world of film and television.The delightfully talented Jack Davenport lifts the lid on his new comedy series 'Ten Percent'.Scottish sensation Kelly Macdonald shares all about her latest film 'Operation Mincemeat'.Superstar Ruper Friend chats about his brand new Netflix series 'Anatomy of a Scandal'.And the marvellous Meera Syal tells all about her Apple TV+ show 'Roar'.You can catch the breakfast show live weekdays 6:30am-10am on Virgin Radio UK.Be sure to subscribe to the podcast to hear the highlights every week.Jack Davenport - 00:43Kelly Macdonald - 10:51Rupert Friend - 17:28Meera Syal - 25:49 See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Described as 'darkly comic feminist fables' ‘Roar' is a new eight-part drama series adapted from Cecilia Aherne's short story collection. Each episode shines a spotlight on women's experiences and how women navigate through other's perceptions of them as well as their own. Comedian, writer, playwright, singer, journalist and actor, Meera Syal, plays ‘The Woman Who Returned her Husband'. She joins Chloe Tilley. A new report highlights the experiences of over 260 Black, Asian, minority ethnic and foreign national women in the twelve prisons across England. Their accounts of indirect and direct racism have been described as shocking and distressing The report is compiled by the Criminal Justice Alliance in collaboration with the Independent Monitoring Boards. Nina Champion is Director of the Criminal Justice Alliance and Dame Anne Owers is National Chair of the Independent Monitoring Boards and the former Chief Inspectorate of Prisons. Have you got an inner goblin? Do you ever let it out? Not washing for days, slobbing in bed, binge watching TV series in one sitting, eating random things left at the back of your fridge with melted cheese on… these would all be considered ‘goblin mode'. You might do it in private but would you post pictures to social media for the world to see? Well this has become a new trend taking over TikTok with videos using the hashtag gaining over 2.1 billion views. So why are generation Z women turning their back on the gym going, smoothy drinking, ‘It' girl whose aim is self-improvement, to reveal their inner goblins to the world? To explain more we hear from Ione Gamble, writer and editor-in-chief of Polyester zine and podcast and Halima Jibril, writer and editor of Ashamed zine. The UK government has been told to stop matching lone female Ukrainian refugees with single men. The UN has intervened following concerns that women and sometimes children are at risk of sexual exploitation. Under the government's Homes for Ukraine scheme, British hosts must link up with refugees themselves, leaving tens of thousands of people to resort to unregulated social media groups to connect. More than 200,000 people in Britain have applied to host refugees under the scheme but just 28,500 visas have been issued so far. We hear from Louise Calvey, Head of Services and Safeguarding at Refugee Action and Times reporter, Shayma Bakht. She posed as a 22 year old Ukrainian woman online and within minutes was inundated with inappropriate messages. Esme Young has been at the cutting edge of the fashion industry for over 50 years. From launching her own label Swanky Modes, dressing stars like Grace Jones and Cher and more recently being one half of the judging duo on The Great British Sewing Bee. Esme joins Chloe to discuss her new book, 'Behind The Seams', where she recounts iconic outfits and raucous parties and the clothes in her wardrobe she just can't part with. Presenter: Chloe Tilley Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Meera Syal Interviewed Guest: Nina Champion Interviewed Guest: Dame Anne Owers Interviewed Guest: Ione Gamble Interviewed Guest: Halima Jibril Interviewed Guest: Louise Calvey Interviewed Guest: Shayma Bakht Interviewed Guest: Esme Young

The Guilty Feminist presented by Deborah Frances-White, talking to Nicky Clark, Meera Syal and Juliet Stevenson.The Guilty Feminist theme by Mark Hodge and produced by Nick Sheldon.More about Deborah Frances-Whitehttps://deborahfrances-white.comhttps://twitter.com/DeborahFWhttps://www.virago.co.uk/the-guilty-feminist-bookMore about Acting Your Agehttps://twitter.com/MrsNickyClarkhttp://www.mrsnickyclark.com/-acting-your-age--campaign.htmlhttps://www.instagram.com/actingyouragecampaignFor more information about this and other episodes…visit https://www.guiltyfeminist.comtweet us https://www.twitter.com/guiltfempodlike our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/guiltyfeministcheck out our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theguiltyfeministor join our mailing list http://www.eepurl.com/bRfSPTOur new podcasts are out nowMedia Storm https://podfollow.com/media-stormAbsolute Power https://podfollow.com/john-bercows-absolute-powerCome to a live recordingCamp as Springtime https://unionchapel.org.uk/venue/whats-on/the-guilty-feminist-presentsThe Guilty Feminist stands up, 26 April – 7 May https://sohotheatre.com/shows/deborah-frances-white-the-guilty-feminist-stands-up-2/UK Tour booking now. https://guiltyfeminist.com/2022-live-uk-tour/Australia/NZ tour book now. https://guiltyfeminist.com/tour2022/Thank you to our amazing Patreon supporters.To support the podcast yourself, go to https://www.patreon.com/guiltyfeminist See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Jools and Jim are back on the open road, joined in this episode by veterans of comedy, acting, writing and producing — Meera Syal and Sanjeev Bhaskar.By police car, childhood bicycle and elephant, this week's journey sees Jools and Jim consider the more impractically shaped car, while Sanjeev shares a unique method of questioning and Meera divulges a rather unusual phobia. There's an aquatic transport first for the podcast, plus the four discuss the limitations of the Orient Express, Jim's childhood shoe obsession, and whether mosquitos like Marmite…A Dig! Studios / Warner Music Entertainment podcast.Produced by Molly Stewart. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Welcome to the 94th episode of Yesterday's Capers. Every week, Abdullah Moallim will be reviewing and looking back at some of the most memorable and well known tv shows and cartoons from the past. Every week Abdullah and a contributor will compare two different shows, and put them head to head, as well as having an in-depth discussion about a specific show.For the next month, we'll be taking a look at some of the best black cartoons and television shows, to commemorate Black History Month. This week we start with looking back at some the most iconic sketch shows as we talk In Living Color starring a young Jim Carrey, Jaime Foxx and Jennifer Lopez. We also talk Chapelle's show, created by Dave Chapelle and we look back the British classic The Real McCoy starring some of the most iconic Black and Asian British actors/comedians such as Robbie Gee, Leo Chester and Meera Syal. We talk episodes, classic moments and how each sketch show differed from each other and how they set up the careers of some of the biggest names in all of entertainment.Yesterday's Capers is available to subscribe and download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play and anywhere podcasts are found.For any questions and queries email us at yesterdayscapers@gmail.comYou can follow the podcast on Twitter @yesterdaycapers, on Instagram @yesterdaycapers1 and subscribe on YouTube at 'Yesterday's Capers.'The theme song is 'Clap and Yell' from Bensound. You can find this and a whole host of music on www.bensound.com

Goodness gracious me, it's another national treasure in the dream restaurant. Actor-writer Meera Syal joins the Off Menu boys to order her perfect meal.Meera Syal stars in Sky Original ‘Code 404', series 2. All episodes available now on Sky Comedy and NOW.Follow Meera on Twitter @meerasyalRecorded by Ben Williams and edited by Naomi Parnell for Plosive.Artwork by Paul Gilbey (photography and design) and Amy Browne (illustrations).Follow Off Menu on Twitter and Instagram: @offmenuofficial.And go to our website www.offmenupodcast.co.uk for a list of restaurants recommended on the show.Watch Ed and James's YouTube series 'Just Puddings'. Watch here. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Episode 33 of Raj & Pablo's talk show, "The Raj & Pablo Show" featuring Ira Dubey, Shikha Talsania, and Meera Syal.

Episode 33 of Raj & Pablo's talk show, "The Raj & Pablo Show" featuring Ira Dubey, Shikha Talsania, and Meera Syal.

Welcome back to You Heard it Here First. As usual, we're bringing you even more superb recommendations. Are you on the hunt for something to help you get your life together? Or perhaps you're after some 19th-century history with a humorous twist? This episode has got you covered on both counts. We're also reviewing a bestselling parenting book to help you decide if it's worth the hype. And things get a little dark and sinister as we discuss a chilling psychological thriller with author Jo Spain.In this series, we share lots of our recommendations, but we also want to hear from you! Tell us about your favourite audiobook and be featured on the show – just email YHIHF@audible.co.uk. Send us a voice note or type it out, whichever you prefer! Follow and chat to us on Instagram and Twitter @YHIHFpod Here are the recommendations from this episode:Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Americanah-Audiobook/B00C78HUV0Sista Sister by Candice Brathwaite https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Sista-Sister-Audiobook/1529415306 Raj! by Meera Syal and Mark Evans https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Raj-Podcast/B095DBR413The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read (and Your Children Will Be Glad That You Did) by Philippa Perry https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/The-Book-You-Wish-Your-Parents-Had-Read-and-Your-Children-Will-Be-Glad-That-You-Did-Audiobook/0241398304The Last Thing to Burn by Will Dean https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/The-Last-Thing-to-Burn-Audiobook/1529307066Dirty Little Secrets by Jo Spain https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Dirty-Little-Secrets-Audiobook/1787474291Laura Whitmore's Audible Session https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Laura-Whitmore-Audiobook/B08Y5Y5Z25No One Can Change Your Life Except for You by Laura Whitmore https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/No-One-Can-Change-Your-Life-Except-for-You-Audiobook/1398701718No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series by Alexander McCall Smith https://www.audible.co.uk/series/The-No-1-Ladies-Detective-Agency-Audiobooks/B00HS4VSDO See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

This week we're discussing Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows by Balli Kaur Jaswal, narrated by Meera Syal. The story follows a young Punjabi feminist called Nikki, who takes what she believes to be a creative writing job at her local temple. She quickly learns that these women are illiterate and have their own way of learning to read and write. The story then picks up and becomes about loneliness, desire and sexuality within the group. - These are women who have spent their lives in the shadows of fathers, brothers and husbands, being dutiful, raising children and going to temple, but whose inner lives are as rich and fruitful as their untold stories. Join us for our next live event and taping on Sunday, 28th March at 4:00 pm UK time, where we'll be getting stuck into Through The Leopards Gaze by Njambi McGrath.You can register to attend at contentisqueen.org/abc4/ the link is also in the show notes. If you can't make it feel free to send your thoughts and even your questions to us on Whatsapp at +447715 408831 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Gaby chats to the brilliant comedian, actor and writer Sanjeev Bhaskar OBE. He talks about creating the ground-breaking TV show ‘Goodness Gracious Me’ with his equally talented wife Meera Syal, plus ‘The Kumars at No. 42’ and the importance of seeing representation on screen. They talk about the hugely successful drama ‘Unforgotten’ with Nicola Walker which is available on ITV, ITV Hub and the first three seasons on Netflix. He shares what it was like to film a bedroom scene with Anna Friel and Ray Winstone! Plus, his friendship with musician Nitin Sawhney, a shared love for Donny Osmond and an unmissable story of how the flip of a coin changed his life forever…   Produced by Cameo Productions (https://www.cameopro.com/) , music by Beth Macari.    Join the conversation on Instagram and Twitter @gabyroslin (https://www.instagram.com/gabyroslin/?hl=en) #thatgabyroslinpodcast (https://twitter.com/hashtag/thatgabyroslinpodcast?src=hashtag_click)   For more information on the sponsor of this episode:   Grass and Co. - Find your calm 25% OFF, plus free shipping at: http://www.grassandco.com/GABY Use discount code: GABY at checkout.

This week, we talk to the incredible Meera Syal about being a parent to two kids of different ages and how each one presented new challenges and ways of being a parent. She talks about raising one as a single parent and another as a boy. She talks about her childhood in the Midlands and the world of imagination she built for herself, about role models in the industry and the impact of her work through the years, whether it be Goodness Gracious Me or her novel Anita And Me. She offers advice and solace in this episode that would have made Nikesh's mum proud!.Meera Syal is the star of so many seminal shows from Goodness Gracious Me to The Kumars At Number 42 to Broadchurch to The Split and more. She is the author of the novels Anita And Me and Life Isn't All Ha Ha Hee Hee! Nikesh is a writer and editor, the author of 'Brown Baby'. Buy a copy of Brown Baby here: https://linktr.ee/nikeshshuklaHow do we raise our kids with joy and wonder in uncertain and – let's face it – increasingly bleak times?This is the question explored in weekly podcast Brown Baby, hosted by writer (and dad of two) Nikesh Shukla. Inspired by his forthcoming memoir, Brown Baby: A Memoir of Race, Family and Home, each week Nikesh invites fellow parents of brown babies - writers, musicians, chefs, comedians, actors and more - to talk about their parenting journeys and the highs and lows they've experienced along the way.A frank, funny and poignant look at parenting, Brown Baby will spark honest, self-effacing conversation about how we tell our kids about the world. Featuring parenting fails, plus the best (and worst) advice Nikesh and his guests have ever received, this is the comforting, uplifting podcast for anyone who's ever found themselves searching for answers in a sleep-deprived Google hole.Buy Brown Baby: https://linktr.ee/nikeshshuklaSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/brown-babySupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/brown-baby. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"I feel pressure to produce perfect chapattis despite being a successful comedian!" I speak with Shazia Mirza, a famous comedian and writer, appearing on Jonathan Ross, Celebrity Island with Bear Gryls, Celebs in Solitary & many more shows. Her new show ‘Coconut' will be on tour in 2021. Shazia travels all over the world doing stand-up comedy, is hugely successful but still feels the pressure to be the perfect South Asian woman. Shazia and I speak about some of the issues we've experienced in our culture: • The expectation to always be the dutiful daughter, to be the quiet subservient one • The expectation to get married, have kids, look after everyone around us • How cultural conditioning carries on even with professional successful South Asian womxn • Anti-blackness that pervades South Asian society, and what can be done to change it • Getting our names mis-pronounced (Shazia being called ‘Shava Minza' has got to be the funniest!) • How all brown women are lumped into the same person (Shazia talks about being mistaken for everyone from Meera Syal to Malala to her local GP) MORE ABOUT SHAZIA: https://www.shazia-mirza.com/Instagram: @theshaziamirzaTwitter: @shaziamirza1 RESOURCESWant to explore more about the themes discussed in this episode? Here are some resources/social media accounts that you might find useful: THE INDIAN FEMINISThttps://www.instagram.com/the_indian_feminist/?hl=enASIAN WOMEN FESTIVAL:https://www.asianwomanfestival.com/BROWN GIRL MAGAZINEhttps://www.browngirlmagazine.com/BURNT ROTIhttps://www.burntroti.com/

She's Mrs Ordinary now. But offer her an E, and she might just bite your hand off. All because there's a hole she has to fill... #BattleOfRave All characters portrayed by the dramatic actors are fictional. This drama contains strong language and references to drug use. Credits Performed by Meera Syal Written by Danny Brocklehurst Producer and Director: Gary Brown Sound Design and Mixing: Steve Brooke Editor and Executive Producer: Ciaran Tracey

Wilko Johnson, the former Dr Feelgood guitarist and songwriter, was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2013. In his new book, Don't You Leave Me Here: My Life, he takes stock of his life following an 11-hour, life-saving operation and looks forward to a future he wasn't expecting. Wilko Johnson discusses his extraordinary and unexpected change of fortune.Kenneth Branagh's latest play in his year-long season at the Garrick Theatre is Romeo and Juliet. Lily James and Richard Madden star as the eponymous lovers, with Derek Jacobi as Mercutio and Meera Syal as the Nurse. Susannah Clapp reviews.The late American artist Walter De Maria is best known for his large-scale works, including The Lightning Field, a grid of 400 stainless steel poles in the New Mexico desert, and The Vertical Earth Kilometer, a brass rod that extends 1 kilometre into the ground in the German city of Kassel. John Wilson talks to De Maria's assistant and former studio manager Elizabeth Childress and curator Kara Vander Weg about the artist's first solo exhibition in the UK.Presenter: John Wilson Producer: Rachel Simpson.

The actress and author Meera Syal and playwright Tanika Gupta discuss adapting Syal's novel Anita and Me for the stage. Chosen as a GCSE set text, the novel Anita and Me depicts the friendship of a Punjabi teenager Meena and Anita, a white more rebellious girl living in the same West Midlands village in the 1970s. Filmed in 2002, the autobiographical novel has now been adapted for stage by Tanika Gupta, directed by the Artistic Director of Birmingham Rep Roxana Silbert. Rana Mitter chairs a discussion about Anita and Me, growing up in 70s Britain, the surrogacy industry in India and having a rebel in the family with questions from an audience at Birmingham Rep Theatre and as part of the Birmingham Literature Festival. Anita and Me runs at Birmingham Repertory Theatre until October 24th. It's on at Theatre Royal Stratford East from October 29th - November 21st. Meera Syal's latest novel is called The House of Hidden Mothers.

The Frequency of Laughter is a six-part history of radio comedy, covering 1975-2005, presented by journalist and radio fan Grace Dent. In each episode she brings together two figures who were making significant radio comedy at the same time, and asks them about their experiences. This is a conversational history that focuses on the people who were there and the atmosphere within the BBC and the wider comedy world that allowed them to make great radio - or not. This penultimate edition features producer Paul Schlesinger, who spent the late 1990s making shows such as the Sunday Format, People Like Us and Absolute Power before leaving to make television, returning in 2005 to become Head of Radio Comedy; it also features Meera Syal whose Radio 4 sketch show Goodness Gracious Me was the first British Asian comedy hit, later transferring to BBC Two. Grace asks them about the atmosphere within the Radio Comedy department and the attitude of TV Comedy department towards it; they discuss the BBC's reaction to the wide range of Black and Asian talent breaking through; and they discuss what it is about media parodies that works so well on radio. The Frequency of Laughter is presented by Grace Dent, a journalist for The Independent, and is a BBC Radio Comedy production. Presenter ... Grace Dent Guest ... Paul Schlesinger Guest ... Meera Syal Interviewee ... Andrew Caspari Interviewee ... Peter Fincham Producers ... Ed Morrish & Alexandra Smith.

Writer, comedian and actor Meera Syal and psychoanalyst and author Stephen Grosz discuss favourite books with Harriett Gilbert. A Russian romance, a very English murder, and the poverty of India are the themes in books by Chekhov, Agatha Christie and Katherine Boo. Produced by Melvin Rickarby

Actor and writer, Meera Syal MBE chooses 'Dum Maro Dum' from the soundtrack of the film 'Hare Rama Hare Krishna' and 'A Case of You' by Joni Mitchell.

Sian Williams & Richard Coles with the BBC's Business Editor Robert Peston, artist and designer David Gentleman, Claire Guest who trains dogs to sniff out a range of diseases including cancer and Bomber Command pilot Frank Dell who was shot down behind enemy lines in WW2; John McCarthy watches cricket with comedian Miles Jupp, Uri Geller reveals his secret life, and writer and actress Meera Syal shares her Inheritance Tracks.Producer: Lisa Jenkinson.

Kirsty Young's castaway this week is Sanjeev Bhaskar. A writer, comic and actor, Sanjeev has brought the British Asian experience into mainstream comedy with his television programmes Goodness Gracious Me and The Kumars at No 42. Despite initial worries from the broadcasters, both attracted a loyal following and great critical acclaim.This represented a turn-around in Sanjeev's fortunes: aged 30, he had been unemployed, single, depressed and living at home. Now he is enjoying great success professionally and is one half of a golden couple of entertainment - he is married to fellow writer and performer Meera Syal. "At times," he says, "it's felt like living someone else's life. But I'm not going to give it back to whoever owns it legitimately."[Taken from the original programme material for this archive edition of Desert Island Discs]Favourite track: The Waters of March by Susannah McCorkle Book: The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams Luxury: A grand piano.