Podcasts about mobeen azhar

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Best podcasts about mobeen azhar

Latest podcast episodes about mobeen azhar

Brown Girls Do It Too
Defining Masculinity with Mobeen Azhar

Brown Girls Do It Too

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2024 30:53


Poppy is joined by documentary and filmmaker Mobeen Azhar dissect what it means to be a 'real man' and define masculinity. The delve into whether the definition is problematic, who actually gets to define masculinity and what does the future look like? Have a message for Poppy? If you're over 16, you can message the BGDIT team via WhatsApp for free on 07968100822. Or email us at browngirlsdoittoo@bbc.co.uk. If you're in the UK, for more BBC podcasts listen on BBC Sounds: bbc.in/3UjecF5

The Global Story
Investigating the J-pop sexual abuse scandal

The Global Story

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2024 26:15


For decades the Japanese entertainment industry ignored allegations that Johnny Kitagawa – a powerful music mogul who died in 2019 – had sexually abused young men and boys who he'd promised to turn into stars. Last year, the BBC aired a documentary by journalist Mobeen Azhar which shed new light on the accusations, and led to a reckoning across Japanese pop music. Azhar has been following up on the scandal and its aftermath in a new documentary. He joins Katya Adler and BBC presenter Mariko Oi, who grew up in Japan idolising J-pop stars. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@bbc.com or leave a voice note or message via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480.The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app.This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts, Peter Goffin and Beth Timmins. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The assistant editor was Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor was Jonathan Aspinwall.

Skip Intro: The BINGE Podcast
The Trouble with KanYe and The House Across The Street

Skip Intro: The BINGE Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2023 23:19


This week on Skip Intro we check out the new BBC documentary The Trouble with KanYe presented by Mobeen Azhar and the suburban thriller The House Across The Street.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Talk Media
Mhairi Black Stepping Down, Nigel Farage Cheques and Balances and the Bournemouth Observer - or is it? / with Angela Haggerty

Talk Media

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 5, 2023 6:18


At the end of the show a question from producer Brian McAlpine Recommendations: Stuart Reuters News Reuters News delivers breaking news, analysis and market data from the world's most trusted news organisation. Explore a seamless stream of articles, pictures and videos on your phone or tablet. https://www.reuters.com/tools/mobile/us Eamonn Muscles & Mayhem: An Unauthorised Story of American Gladiators In the '90s, TV's stunt-filled "American Gladiators" thrilled fans. This docuseries explores the show's success — and how it almost ended before it began. https://www.netflix.com/gb/TITle/81462151 Angela The Witch Trials of J.K. Rowling The Witch Trials of J.K. Rowling is an audio documentary that examines some of the most contentious conflicts of our time through the life and career of the world's most successful author. In conversation with host Megan Phelps-Roper, J.K. Rowling speaks with unprecedented candor and depth about the controversies surrounding her—from book bans to debates on gender and sex. The series also examines the forces propelling this moment in history, through interviews with Rowling's supporters and critics, journalists, historians, clinicians, and more. https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/66896636-8562-466b-a50d-81b85b14b8f2/the-witch-trials-of-j-k-rowling?ref_=dmm_acq_mrn_d_ds_rh_z_-c_c_632415191007_t_dsa-1670569866842&gclid=CjwKCAjwqZSlBhBwEiwAfoZUIMTHzFODREbxWIDWRyuVTIa84UjpuHsEM7MVLf8EpSsdMuLw6VAThRoCzkUQAvD_BwE The Trouble with KanYe In October 2022, Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, drew widespread condemnation after wearing a White Lives Matter T-shirt at his Paris Fashion Show. That controversy was swiftly followed up with a series of antisemitic statements on social media. With his dangerous statements making global headlines, Ye doubled down by sharing dangerous and inflammatory mistruths during a series of interviews. In the face of backlash, Ye told the paparazzi that he was planning to run for president of the United States in 2024. Unfolding against the backdrop of Ye's recent behaviour and his rumoured 2024 presidential campaign, this documentary sees award-winning journalist Mobeen Azhar travel to the United States to try and discover how one of America's most celebrated artists became a megaphone for hate and division. https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001nc6f

The Kanye Story
4. A Big Head and A Broken Heart

The Kanye Story

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 28, 2023 31:02


Mobeen Azhar and panel discuss My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy and Kanye's moves firmly into the world of celebrity. He storms the stage and takes the mic off Taylor Swift at the VMAs, telling the world that the award for best video should have gone to Beyoncé. President Obama calls him a ‘jackass' for doing so. Another relationship breaks down and Kanye reconnects with Kim.What took Kanye West from hit-maker to a political agitator, spreading anti-Jewish hate? And where does he go next? Mobeen explores the rapper's rise and fall.Clip: Kanye West interrupting Taylor Swift/VMA Awards 2009 - MTVPresenter: Mobeen Azhar Producer: Ashley Clivery Assistant Producer: Edith Rousselot Executive Producer: Peter Sale Sound Mixing: Adam LieberForest Sounds for the BBC

The Kanye Story
2. The Victory Lap

The Kanye Story

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 28, 2023 30:57


Mobeen Azhar and guests discuss Kanye's career post College Dropout. His second album didn't do the same numbers as his debut, but Late Registration is still a major hit. Away from music he's making big headlines and after Hurricane Katrina strikes New Orleans, he tells the world that President George Bush "doesn't care about Black people".What took Kanye West from hit-maker to a political agitator, spreading anti-Jewish hate? And where does he go next? Mobeen explores the rapper's rise and fall.Clip: Kanye talking about George Bush and Hurricane Katrina/NBC - A Concert for Hurricane Relief.Presenter: Mobeen Azhar Producer: Ashley Clivery Assistant Producer: Edith Rousselot Executive Producer: Peter Sale Sound Mixing: Adam LieberForest Sounds for the BBC

The Kanye Story
1. The Blueprint

The Kanye Story

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 28, 2023 31:08


Mobeen Azhar is joined by guests to unpack the early stages of Kanye's life in music. Going back to his upbringing with activist parents, the panel discuss how a horrific car crash nearly derailed Kanye's career. But he successfully moved from being a producer for other rappers like Jay-Z to signing a solo deal with Roc-A-Fella and winning a Grammy for his debut studio album College Dropout - a record that would write him into pop music history.What took Kanye West from hit-maker to a political agitator, spreading anti-Jewish hate? And where does he go next? Mobeen explores the rapper's rise and fall.Presenter: Mobeen Azhar Producer: Ashley Clivery Assistant Producer: Edith Rousselot Executive Producer: Peter Sale Sound Mixing: Adam LieberForest Sounds for the BBC

The Kanye Story
3. End of an Era

The Kanye Story

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 28, 2023 30:49


Mobeen Azhar is joined by guests to look at Kanye's life and career in the period he made Graduation - a record that sat firmly in the mainstream with an A-list cast of contributors including Lil Wayne and Chris Martin. But the death of his mother Donda and the end of the relationship with his fiancée were moments that affected him significantly.What took Kanye West from hit-maker to a political agitator, spreading anti-Jewish hate? And where does he go next? Mobeen explores the rapper's rise and fall.Presenter: Mobeen Azhar Producer: Ashley Clivery Assistant Producer: Edith Rousselot Executive Producer: Peter Sale Sound Mixing: Adam LieberForest Sounds for the BBC

The Kanye Story
Introducing The Kanye Story

The Kanye Story

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2023 2:41


What took Kanye West from hit-maker to political agitator, spreading anti-Jewish hate? And where does he go next? Mobeen Azhar explores the rapper's rise and fall.

900 Degrees
Chapter 1: 11th May, 1985

900 Degrees

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 1, 2023 33:42


Saturday the 11th of May 1985 was supposed to be a day of celebration for the fans of Bradford City AFC. They'd just clinched the Division Three title and the last game of the season against Lincoln City was set to be a lap of honour.But as half time approached, faint wisps of smoke appeared from the Main Stand of Valley Parade. They quickly turned to visible orange flames. The carnival atmosphere quickly took a turn as the flames grew. In just over four minutes, the entire stand was ablaze. It's estimated that temperatures reached 900 degrees celsius.While many fans survived by escaping onto the pitch, 56 didn't. But despite it being one of the deadliest events in football history, the fire at Valley Parade has faded somewhat into obscurity.Investigative journalist, Mobeen Azhar, speaks to those who were at the ground that fateful day, to get a sense of the tragedy. From police officers, to the radio commentator, we hear the shocking details of one of the worst days in football history. 900 Degrees is a What's The Story original podcast series. What's The Story are the leaders in premium true-crime podcasts and audio story-telling.The whole series of 900 Degrees is available to listen to on What's The Story? Crime - your new home for compelling true crime content. On there you'll get all episodes of 900 Degrees ad-free, as well as access to the best true-crime series like Smoking Gun and The Missing, bonus episodes, early access and exclusive series you can't hear anywhere else.If you listen on Apple Podcasts, simply search for 'Crime Corner'. Or if you're on Spotify, or any other platform, just click HERE, and set up What's The Story? Crime on your chosen platform.What's The Story? Crime costs less than a cup of coffee, and helps ensure we can make more series like this one. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Gay and A NonGay
Santa Claus, The Serial Killer? with Mobeen Azhar

A Gay and A NonGay

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 25, 2022 21:51


How did a shopping mall Santa murder eight people before he was stopped? And what can the LGBTQ+ community learn from this case about how we treat each other? Dan and James are joined by journalist Mobeen Azhar to discuss his new BBC series Santa Claus: The Serial Killer.This episode contains numerous references to murder and sexual assault.Watch Santa Claus: The Serial Killer in the UK on BBC iPlayer - https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0d8nlj2 Get bonus content on Patreon, with our super exclusive fan feed Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Analysis
Is 'Political Blackness' gone for good?

Analysis

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2022 27:41


Over the decades, a string of umbrella terms and acronyms have been used in the UK to describe people who aren't white. “Politically Black”, Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME), ethnic minorities, or people of colour. Virtually all of them have been rejected by the people they describe, but is there still value in a collective term for Britain's ethnic minorities? Mobeen Azhar hears stories of solidarity and schism between different groups in modern Britain to find out whether any sense of unity still exists and whether we need a new label. Contributors: Clive Lewis, MP for Norwich South Asad Rehman, Executive Director, War on Want Professor Jason Arday, Professor of Sociology of Education, University of Glasgow Ada Akpala, writer and podcaster Dr Rakib Ehsan, research analyst specialising in social integration and community relations Dr Lisa Palmer, Deputy Director of the Stephen Lawrence Research Centre, De Montfort University Sunder Katwala, Director, British Future Presenter: Mobeen Azhar Producer: Dan Hardoon Editor: Clare Fordham Sound Engineer: Rod Farquhar Production Coordinators: Maria Ogundele and Helena Warwick-Cross

Front Burner
The fatwa on Salman Rushdie, 3 decades later

Front Burner

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2022 29:11


The writer Salman Rushdie is still recovering in hospital from a brutal attack at a literary event last Friday. A young man rushed onstage and stabbed Rushdie nearly a dozen times, leaving him with injuries so severe he may lose an eye. While Rushdie himself has never been attacked like this before, this isn't the first attempt on his life. He has been targeted by death threats ever since the Ayatollah Khomeini of Iran issued a fatwa calling for Rushdie's death in 1989. The fatwa was over Rushdie's 1988 novel, The Satanic Verses, parts of which some Muslims consider blasphemous. The uproar over the book led to huge protests in many countries, pushed Rushdie into hiding for nearly a decade, and led to the deaths of several people around the world. In England, where Rushdie was based, many people believe it also transformed U.K. society — particularly relations between British Muslims and non-Muslims. Today, we're looking back at The Satanic Verses affair and its long-term impacts with Mobeen Azhar, a BBC journalist and filmmaker. He's made a documentary about it, The Satanic Verses: 30 Years On, and a podcast, Fatwa. We'll also hear from celebrated British novelist and playwright Hanif Kureishi, who is a longtime friend of Rushdie's.

Sunday
14/08/2022

Sunday

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2022 40:31


The stabbing of author Salman Rushdie has again ignited the debate around freedom of speech and religious sensibilities. At this stage it's not known why the 75-year-old was attacked. The broadcaster and journalist Mobeen Azhar, who produced the podcast Fatwa, joins us to talk about the background to the threats made against Salman Rushdie after the publication of his book "The Satanic Verses" in 1988. It is already a whole year since the Taliban took over again in Afghanistan. Thousands of refugees were able to come to the UK - but a year on, up to 10,000 are still living in cramped hotels, while for those left in Afghanistan, life is even more precarious. Marzia Babakarkhail, who was a judge in Kabul, came to the UK in 2008 after the Taliban tried to assassinate her twice. She arrived with no English, but joins us to explain how now she works for the Oldham MP Debbie Abrahams on immigration and asylum seeker cases - and earlier this year ran to be a local councillor. We've talked before about the cost of living crisis, but as prices continue to rise, now religious buildings are also facing huge bills. One Methodist minister tells us that in the last year, his monthly electricity bill has risen from £70 to £1000 a month. New research from the Theos think tank finds many religious organisations are having to make difficult decisions about the services they will still be able to offer. And with many of us overwhelmed by constant stories of environmental or economic crisis, not to mention worries about physical or mental health, the Medicine Festival in Berkshire next weekend sounds like the perfect antidote. Its aim is to envision a more enlightened, peaceful and sustainable world and provides a platform for so called 'indigenous wisdom keepers' to share their teachings, ceremonies and traditional technologies. Presented by Emily Buchanan. Produced by Amanda Hancox and Julia Paul.

Saturday Live
DJ Fat Tony and Angela Hartnett

Saturday Live

Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2022 84:18


Nikki Bedi and Mobeen Azhar are joined by DJ Fat Tony, who first found fame in the 80s and has played for everyone from Prince and Madonna to Royalty. After 28 years of hedonism, Tony found himself homeless and dying from addiction but he's now over 15 years sober, in demand as a DJ and working to help others. We also have Angela Hartnett MBE, the Michelin starred chef who's written cookbooks, judged on BBC's Best Home Cook and a has passion for good, honest food with the best ingredients possible. Football manager and former player Carlo Ancelotti has navigated Real Madrid to the face Liverpool in the Champions League final tonight. So what's his secret? Spring is in the air and so is birdsong. But how many of us know what we are listening to? We are joined by self taught birdsong expert Lucy “lapwing” Hodson who set up youtube tutorials in lockdown, she also makes props for Springwatch and knows something about Larks. She joins us. Opera singer Brindley Sherratt chooses his Inheritance Tracks: Beethoven: Fidelio, Mir ist so wunderbar and The Carpenters: We've Only Just Begun (photo credit Gerard Collett). And your Thank you. Producer: Corinna Jones

Outlook
The trailer

Outlook

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 18, 2022 2:54


Astonishing true stories, jaw-dropping twists. Why would an Olympic hopeful rob a bank? How does someone keep their double life a secret? From the team behind Outlook, incredible personal stories from around the world, to show you just how surprising and extraordinary humans can be. With Emily Webb, Mobeen Azhar and Jo Fidgen. Premieres on 25 April.

Outlook
Introducing Lives Less Ordinary

Outlook

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2022 5:16 Very Popular


Enter other people's worlds. Welcome to the new weekly podcast from the Outlook radio team, finding amazing personal stories from around the world. Premieres on 25 April. With Emily Webb, Mobeen Azhar and Jo Fidgen.

Headliners
Catherine Tate

Headliners

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2022 30:12


Catherine Tate is a multi-award winning writer, actress and comedian. She talked to Mobeen Azhar about her Netflix prison comedy Hard Cell, in which she plays several parts. She told Mobeen where she gets inspiration for her characters from.

Headliners
Jayde Adams

Headliners

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2022 42:55


Comedian Jayde Adams talks to Mobeen Azhar about moving back to her hometown, her parents bickering, how her Bristol accent helped her career and her next big projects.

The Outlook Podcast Archive
My love affair with the instrument that reminds me of home

The Outlook Podcast Archive

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 31, 2022 22:39


Syrian musician Maya Youssef is in love with her qanun, a traditional Middle Eastern stringed instrument. Like a family member, it's got her through some difficult times and it consoled Maya as she watched from afar as her homeland was ripped apart by war. Maya's talent at playing the qanun gave her the opportunity to live in the UK and she has taken it on tour playing in refugee centres for new arrivals and at the Royal Albert Hall. Maya tells Mobeen Azhar about her journey with the qanun. Her upcoming album is called Finding Home. Get in touch: outlook@bbc.com Presenter: Mobeen Azhar Producer: Deiniol Buxton (Photo: Maya Youssef and her qanun. Credit: Igor Studio)

Outlook
My love affair with the instrument that reminds me of home

Outlook

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 31, 2022 22:39


Syrian musician Maya Youssef is in love with her qanun, a traditional Middle Eastern stringed instrument. Like a family member, it's got her through some difficult times and it consoled Maya as she watched from afar as her homeland was ripped apart by war. Maya's talent at playing the qanun gave her the opportunity to live in the UK and she has taken it on tour playing in refugee centres for new arrivals and at the Royal Albert Hall. Maya tells Mobeen Azhar about her journey with the qanun. Her upcoming album is called Finding Home. Get in touch: outlook@bbc.com Presenter: Mobeen Azhar Producer: Deiniol Buxton (Photo: Maya Youssef and her qanun. Credit: Igor Studio)

Saturday Live
Brian May

Saturday Live

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 11, 2021 85:11


Nikki Bedi and Mobeen Azhar are joined by Brian May, musician and astrophysicist, who played guitar on Buckingham Palace, and with the rock band Queen and is fascinated by stereoscopy AKA 3D. Also we have: journalist and broadcaster Camilla Tominey on her experiences growing up with her mother who had alcoholism. Johanna Basford joins us, she worked for years as a commercial illustrator – her work can be found on wallpaper, beer cans and even as tattoos – she had the idea of creating adult colouring books. Her books have since sold 21 million copies and been translated into 28 languages. and Bear Grylls whose latest project is to encourage adventure. Plus, comedian Mel Giedroyc chooses her Inheritance tracks: Hit me with your rhythm stick by Ian Dury and the Blockheads, and Sit in your lap by Kate Bush. And your Thank you. Producer: Corinna Jones

The Outlook Podcast Archive
Matt Goss: Life and loss in a superstar boy band

The Outlook Podcast Archive

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 23, 2021 40:03


In the late 80s, the British group Bros was one of the most successful pop acts in the world. Made up of lead singer Matt Goss, his twin brother Luke, and childhood friend Craig Logan, Bros quickly achieved multi-platinum selling albums and legions of adoring fans. But behind the scenes not everything was as it seemed. By 1992 the band had collapsed, and the relationship between the brothers never fully recovered. Matt tells Mobeen Azhar how the split affected his mental health, and how he eventually made his way back to music. His new album is called The Beautiful Unknown. Get in touch: outlook@bbc.com Presenter: Mobeen Azhar Producer: Rebecca Vincent (Photo: Matt Goss of Bros performs at Brixton Academy, London in 2019. Credit: Jim Dyson/Getty Images)

Outlook
Matt Goss: Life and loss in a superstar boy band

Outlook

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 23, 2021 40:03


In the late 80s, the British group Bros was one of the most successful pop acts in the world. Made up of lead singer Matt Goss, his twin brother Luke, and childhood friend Craig Logan, Bros quickly achieved multi-platinum selling albums and legions of adoring fans. But behind the scenes not everything was as it seemed. By 1992 the band had collapsed, and the relationship between the brothers never fully recovered. Matt tells Mobeen Azhar how the split affected his mental health, and how he eventually made his way back to music. His new album is called The Beautiful Unknown. Get in touch: outlook@bbc.com Presenter: Mobeen Azhar Producer: Rebecca Vincent (Photo: Matt Goss of Bros performs at Brixton Academy, London in 2019. Credit: Jim Dyson/Getty Images)

Beyond Belief
What do the Taliban believe?

Beyond Belief

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2021 27:32


It's a month since Afghanistan entered a new era under the 'Taliban 2.0'. Foreign forces have gone and the eyes of the world are fixed on how they will govern their ‘Islamic Emirate'. Many of those who remember life under the Taliban the first time around in the 1990s are not hopeful. They describe an oppressive regime, justified Islamically through an extremely narrow interpretation of sharia law. Women couldn't work, girls couldn't go to school; there was a strict dress code for men and women; music, TV and cinema were banned. There were brutal punishments for those who stepped out of line. Ethnic and religious minorities were targeted and killed. Mobeen Azhar and guests explore what the Taliban believe, how they have justified their actions theologically and whether any of those core beliefs are likely change. Contributors: Dr Sayed Hassan Akhlaq - Afghan-Iranian philosopher at Coppin State University in Baltimore, who has specialised in Islamic theology; Dr Haroun Rahimi - Assistant Professor of Law at the American University of Afghanistan; John Mohammed Butt - Islamic scholar and graduate of Darul Uloom Deoband in India; Dr Weeda Mehran - lecturer at the Department of Politics at the University of Exeter, who grew up in the Afghanistan in the 1990s. Producer: Dan Tierney Editor: Helen Grady.

The Outlook Podcast Archive
Escaping after an IS massacre

The Outlook Podcast Archive

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2021 22:49


Ali Hussein Kadhim was a new Iraqi army recruit when the Islamic State group first emerged. As the militants approached, he and thousand of other unarmed cadets fled their base in Tikrit, but they were captured and taken for execution. Miraculously, Ali survived, but he was left stuck in enemy territory and needed help. Ali spoke to Outlook's Mobeen Azhar, and his story contains strong descriptions of violence. Photo: Ali Hussein Kadhim, taken from the documentary Once Upon a Time in Iraq Credit: BBC Get in touch: outlook@bbc.com

Outlook
Escaping after an IS massacre

Outlook

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2021 22:49


Ali Hussein Kadhim was a new Iraqi army recruit when the Islamic State group first emerged. As the militants approached, he and thousand of other unarmed cadets fled their base in Tikrit, but they were captured and taken for execution. Miraculously, Ali survived, but he was left stuck in enemy territory and needed help. Ali spoke to Outlook's Mobeen Azhar, and his story contains strong descriptions of violence. Photo: Ali Hussein Kadhim, taken from the documentary Once Upon a Time in Iraq Credit: BBC Get in touch: outlook@bbc.com

The Outlook Podcast Archive
I ran away from slavery; now I help others escape

The Outlook Podcast Archive

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2021 36:03


Analiza Guevarra made the painful decision to leave her family behind in the Philippines in order to find work abroad. She felt she had little choice: the family was in debt, and despite working several jobs, she and her husband couldn't make ends meet. She believed she would work abroad for a couple of years, secure the family's future, and return home. But it's been six years since she's seen her children. She tells Mobeen Azhar how she was abused by her employer, and made the brave decision to escape. She now helps other women to get away from abusive employers - but doesn't know when she will be able to return home. Get in touch: outlook@bbc.com Presenter: Mobeen Azhar Producer: Laura Thomas Picture: Analiza Guevarra Credit: Courtesy of Analiza Guevarra

Outlook
I ran away from slavery; now I help others escape

Outlook

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2021 36:03


Analiza Guevarra made the painful decision to leave her family behind in the Philippines in order to find work abroad. She felt she had little choice: the family was in debt, and despite working several jobs, she and her husband couldn't make ends meet. She believed she would work abroad for a couple of years, secure the family's future, and return home. But it's been six years since she's seen her children. She tells Mobeen Azhar how she was abused by her employer, and made the brave decision to escape. She now helps other women to get away from abusive employers - but doesn't know when she will be able to return home. Get in touch: outlook@bbc.com Presenter: Mobeen Azhar Producer: Laura Thomas Picture: Analiza Guevarra Credit: Courtesy of Analiza Guevarra

Beyond Belief
Ganesha

Beyond Belief

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 6, 2021 27:26


Ganesh or Ganesha - also known as Ganpati - is one of the best known Hindu Gods. Easily identified by his elephant head, pot belly and four arms, Ganesha has many fine attributes and is revered as the remover of obstacles and the god of beginnings. As Hindus prepare to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi (the birth of Lord Ganesha), Mobeen Azhar is joined by Hindu monk Swamini Supriyananda, Dr David Frawley (Founder of the American Institute of Vedic Studies) and by Dr Raj Balkaran (Teacher and Consultant at the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies). They discuss why Ganesha is so important and the appeal he has outside the Hindu faith. Mobeen also talks to Game of Thrones actor Lena Headey about why she has a tattoo of Ganesha on her right shoulder. Producer: Helen Lee Editor: Helen Grady This episode of Beyond Belief contains a short audio excerpt from an episode of The Simpsons entitled 'The Two Mrs Nahasapeemapetilons' (Season 9, Episode 7). It was written by Richard Appel and broadcast by the Fox Broadcasting Company.

Must Watch
Stephen | McCartney 3,2,1 | Married At First Sight UK (with Paul C Brunson)

Must Watch

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 30, 2021 50:09


Resident critic Scott Bryan is joined by Mobeen Azhar who sits in for Nihal and Radio 1's Katie Thistleton is back to cover Hayley Campbell (yes, she's still finishing that book). Love expert Paul C Brunson from Married At First Sight UK tells Scott the secret to a second date. Plus, reviews of McCartney 3,2,1 on Disney + and Stephen on ITV.

Must Watch
Sexy Beasts | Can I Improve My Memory | Baptiste S2 (with Tchéky Karyo)

Must Watch

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 19, 2021 50:18


Mobeen Azhar joins Must Watch regulars Scott Bryan and Hayley Campbell for reviews of Sexy Beasts on Netflix and Channel 4's Can I Improve My Memory? Plus, Tchéky Karyo stops by to chat about the final series of BBC One's Baptiste.

Brexitcast
Hands, Face, Embrace

Brexitcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2021 35:34


Matt Hancock says he's "let people down" after getting caught kissing his aide. Will he survive the affair claims? Adam and Vicki discuss what the long-term ramifications might be. As Britney Spears speaks out about her 'abusive' conservatorship, we are joined by filmmaker Mobeen Azhar and a Britney superfan to discuss her shocking court statement. And the green list has grown! We discuss everything you need to know about the latest foreign travel changes with Caroline Davies and Julia Lo Bue-Said, CEO of Advantage Travel Partnership. Today's Newscast was made by Rick Kelsey with producers Cristina Cridland, Natalie Ktena, Ben Cooper, Georgia Coen and Alix Pickles. Sam Bonham is assistant editor. Dino Sofos is the editor.

Early Edition with Kate Hawkesby
Mobeen Azhar: New Britney Spears documentary will specifically examine conservatorship

Early Edition with Kate Hawkesby

Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2021 3:13


We've got some good news for you, another documentary about Britney Spears is about to be released, called ‘Battle for Britney.’Which brings us to the question, why are so many of us obsessed with Britney Spears?A lot of us will admit watching ‘Framing Britney Spears’ earlier in the year was a bit of a guilty pleasure, so what about her makes her and her life so endlessly fascinating?The creator of the new documentary, Mobeen Azhar, told Kate Hawkesby his film will focus more on the conservatorship that Britney has been under for 13 years.“Which means an individual can have particular liberties taken away from them because they are deemed not to be able to make decisions that we would associate with a fully functioning adult.”LISTEN ABOVE

The Documentary Podcast
Portland, prisons and white supremacy (Part 2/2)

The Documentary Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2020 26:28


The second part of this two-part documentary continues the story of Portland, Oregon and its struggle with white supremacists. Portland has a reputation as one of the United States’ most liberal and tolerant cities. Since the death of George Floyd, it has been at the forefront of protests and violence as anti-racist demonstrators and far right groups have battled with each other and with the police. Yet, in 2016, the killing of a young black man sparked a national debate about race hatred. Nineteen year old Larnell Bruce died after a white man called Russell Courtier drove his car at him. A trial for murder and a hate crime followed, and exposed a culture of white supremacy in Oregon, rooted in the state’s history and which endures today despite its easy-going image. In this two-part documentary for Assignment, Mobeen Azhar follows the trial of Russell Courtier and investigates the issues it exposed. Part Two follows Mobeen as he leaves the courtroom to meet Portland’s white supremacists and find out how they operate. He discovers that violent gangs are thriving because of the very institution meant to prevent crime – the prison system. Then, it is time for the verdict. (This programme was adapted for radio from the feature-length TV documentary, “A Black & White Killing: The Case That Shook America”, made by Expectation Entertainment.) (Photo: Prisoner being escorted by guards. Credit: BBC)

The Documentary Podcast
Portland, prisons and white supremacy (Part 1/2)

The Documentary Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2020 26:28


Portland Oregon has a reputation as one of the United States’ most liberal and tolerant cities. Since the death of George Floyd, it has been at the forefront of protests and violence as anti-racist demonstrators and far right groups have battled with each other and with the police. Yet these tensions are nothing new. In 2016, the killing of a young black man sparked a national debate about white supremacy. Nineteen year old Larnell Bruce died after a white man called Russell Courtier deliberately drove his car at him. A trial for murder and a hate crime followed, and exposed a culture of white supremacy in Oregon, rooted in the state’s history and thriving today despite its easy-going image. In this two-part documentary for Assignment, Mobeen Azhar follows the trial of Russell Courtier and investigates how the prison system has become a recruitment ground for racist gangs. Part One reveals the disturbing details of what happened to Larnell Bruce when he encountered Russell Courtier outside a convenience store in one of Portland’s most deprived neighbourhoods. Then, as the murder trial gets underway, we learn that Russell Courtier had once joined a white supremacist gang and continued to bear its insignia on his clothes, and tattooed on his body. However, new evidence emerges to suggest that the case might not be as straightforward as it first appeared. (Image: Safely behind bars? Some white prisoners have found themselves targeted by gangs. Image: Prisoner being escorted by guards. Credit: BBC)

The Drug Science Podcast
28. Drug Gangs in the UK with Mobeen Azhar

The Drug Science Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2020 53:12


Mobeen Azhar has been a journalist for 17 years investigating the societal harms related to the ‘war on drugs'. Upon returning to his hometown of Huddersfield, Mobeen started to uncover grizzly story behind the roadside execution of Yassar Yaqub.  Described in court as a 28-year-old office clerk, Yassar Yaqub was shot dead by police on an M62 slip road on a cold and wet January evening in 2017. Celebrated by his family as a loving son and beloved father, his death lead to protests on the streets of West Yorkshire and in the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement a ‘Justice 4 Yassar' campaign was born. But with rumours of drug empires, money laundering and high-performance cars, just days into his reporting of the case, Mobeen realises that there is a much bigger story in town. With violence on the streets and a town that is terrified to talk, Mobeen attempts to find out where the truth really lies in a journey that forces him to face some ugly truths about his community and hometown. Hometown  Justice for Yassar Neil WoodsBecome a Drug Science Community Member: https://www.donate.drugscience.org.uk/Twitter: @ProfDavidNutt @Drug_ScienceA Fascinate Productions podcast for Drug Science ★ Support this podcast ★

Group Chat
Views on the news

Group Chat

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2020 47:11


Mobeen Azhar and Poppy Begum discuss this week's biggest news stories, including Poppy winning an award, the Harper's Bazaar letter, Jada Pinkett Smith's other relationship, and Kanye running for presidency.

Hometown: A Killing
6: The Death Threats

Hometown: A Killing

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2020 44:24


After publishing a story about drugs and violence in his hometown, journalist Mobeen Azhar returns to Huddersfield to face his critics but threats on his life mean that he has to beat a temporary retreat. Meanwhile, another tragic killing leads Mobeen to examine police tactics being used to deal with this new threat of extreme violence that's spilling out onto the streets.

Hometown: A Killing
1: The Shooting

Hometown: A Killing

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2020 37:41


Award-winning journalist Mobeen Azhar moves back to his hometown of Huddersfield to cover the death of Mohammed Yassar Yaqub. Described in court as a 28 year old office clerk, Yassar Yaqub was shot dead by police on an M62 slip road on a cold and wet January evening in 2017. Celebrated by his family as a loving son and beloved father, his death lead to protests on the streets of West Yorkshire and in the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement a ‘Justice 4 Yassar' campaign was born. But with rumours of drug empires, money laundering and high performance cars, just days into his reporting of the case, Mobeen realises that there is a much bigger story in town. With violence on the streets and a town that is terrified to talk, Mobeen attempts to find out where the truth really lies in a journey that forces him to face some ugly truths about his community and hometown.

Group Chat
Mobeen & Poppy co-host the return of Group Chat!

Group Chat

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2020 58:43


Mobeen Azhar and Poppy Begum come together for the return of Group Chat! After taking a short hiatus (along with the rest of the world!) Group Chat is back with a special co-host between Mobeen and Poppy. What's been happening since lockdown started? What's changed, how are you feeling and what does the future now look like? We've all been living through it and in this episode, Mobeen and Poppy talk about their lockdown vibes, how the world has changed since March and how this has affected life now, and forever!

No Country For Young Women
Ramadan, Thanna Alghabban and Mobeen Azhar

No Country For Young Women

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2020 41:02


Sadia’s first solo episode of the series, exploring the different ways to be British and Muslim with Mobeen Azhar and dating expert Thanna Alghabban. We chat fasting, dating experiences, generational and regional differences, secret relationships, safe spaces and social media. Send us your FAQs to NoCountryForYoungWomen@bbc.co.uk

Hometown: A Killing
Welcome to Hometown: A Killing

Hometown: A Killing

Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2020 2:05


Award-winning journalist Mobeen Azhar moves back to his hometown of Huddersfield to cover the death of Mohammed Yassar Yaqub but realises that there is a much bigger story in town

Sheffield Doc/Fest Podcast
Real drama: What's Next for the Access Doc?

Sheffield Doc/Fest Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2020 46:24


So you’ve got brilliant, hard-won access, now what? With fiercer competition for audiences, it’s what you do with that access that’s all important. We explore the ingredients needed for a hit series – from the inspiration behind the idea, to innovative approaches to storytelling. What are the secrets of turning access into a returnable brand, delivering compelling stories across platforms and pulling in the ever-elusive young audience? Chaired by Mobeen Azhar with Colin Barr (Expectation), David Hodgkinson (Blast Films), Clare Sillery (BBC), Sophie Leonard (Minnow) and Nick Hornby (Optomen). The session was produced by Catriona White (BBC) and Max Gogarty (BBC) and supported by the BBC

Brexitcast
What’s Not Allowed? And Girls Aloud!

Brexitcast

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2020 42:24


What powers do the police have to fight coronavirus? Ex-policeman and Crimewatch presenter, Rav Wilding, joins us to talk about the challenges facing the police during the coronavirus pandemic. And how are Asian communities in the UK responding to the coronavirus crisis? We chat to Mobeen Azhar, Dr Rosena Allin Khan and Harjap Singh Bhangal. Producers: Natalie Ktena, Sej Asar, Seren Jones, Ione Wells and Nick Rotherham Assistant Editors: Emma Close and Sam Bonham Editor: Dino Sofos

Radio Sangam Podcasts
Mobeen Azhar discussion with Qaisar Mahmood and Saj Malik

Radio Sangam Podcasts

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2019 9:25


Qaisar Mahmood and Saj Malik talk to Mobeen 6 Months after Hometown documentry

Saturday Live
Jamie Cullum; Mark Bright

Saturday Live

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 23, 2019 81:47


Jazz/pop singer/songwriter Jamie Cullum joins Aasmah Mir and Mobeen Azhar. He talks about his music, and the personal stories that inspired his latest album Taller, his family and what's been passed down through the generations. Mark Bright tells his story of from foster care to football to reach the FA Cup in 1990. Alice Gorman AKA ‘Dr Space Junk’ is an archaeologist who’s made it her mission to explore artefacts that mankind has left in space. She describes how growing up on a farm in Australia inspired her passion. Nicola Wren wants to be not just a star – but a superstar – and she will NOT let her four siblings and her world-famous brother get in the way. And Dan Snow chooses his Inheritance Tracks - Slide Away by Oasis, and Mr. Brightside by The Killers. Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Beverley Purcell

Beyond Today
What’s wrong with plastic surgery?

Beyond Today

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2019 20:56


Plastic surgery has never been cheaper or more accessible. The industry is booming: it’s worth an estimated £19 billion. The results of cosmetic self- improvement are readily available on Instagram, and appear in the breaks of Love Island. More people than ever are considering going under the knife. Despite all the moralising about plastic surgery, it doesn’t seem to put people off seeking it. We speak to Mobeen Azhar who made TV programme where people seeking surgery watch procedures live on screen, and Christine Rosen, an academic who has been charting its cultural rise. They explore why people are seeking it, the dilemmas of normalising of plastic surgery. Presented by Tina Daheley. Editor John Shields.

Saturday Live
Greg James and Jojo Moyes

Saturday Live

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 9, 2019 85:18


Aasmah Mir and Mobeen Azhar are joined by Greg James, who started recording shows in his bedroom, did hospital radio, student radio, podcasts, and his passion has paid off as last year he became host of the Radio 1 Breakfast show, which has pulled in 250,000 new listeners in his first year. Casey Stoney was Captain of England Women and is now Head Coach to Manchester United Women, she joins us to talk about being a trailblazer for the women’s game. Age 4 Amar Latif learnt that he would go blind, his eyesight deteriorated during his childhood and he had 95% sight loss age 18. After working as a successful finance manager for ten years, he changed career in order to fulfil his love of adventure travel and set up his own business for blind and sighted travellers. He joins us. We'll speak to Xenia Karayiannis was separated from her mother age 3 following the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus and would not be reunited with her until she was 17; and also to 18 year old Emma who is in Wales doing the CIN Rickshaw Challenge. For Inheritance Tracks this week, writer Jojo Moyes chooses She’s Leaving Home by The Beatles and Are You Lonesome Tonight (the laughing version) performed by Elvis Presley, and we have your Thank Yous. Producer: Corinna Jones Editor: Eleanor Garland

1Xtra Talks
Being Black, Brown and British

1Xtra Talks

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2019 55:28


October is Black History Month - a time of the year which celebrates and acknowledges black British history and identity. But in the UK today, South Asians are the largest ethnic minority demographic. Should there be a South Asian History Month too? Or - as it what suggested last year - should October be Diversity History Month? What about the term 'people of colour'? How often do all ethnic minorities fit into the same group? Mobeen Azhar and Reece Parkinson join forces with a panel of guests to explore the relationship between the South Asian and black community. Tobi Kyeremateng is a producer and theatre director. She identifies as Ghanaian and Nigerian. Leanne Levers is a Sri Lankan and Cuban political scientist. Blazer Boccle is a rapper. His heritage is Jamaican and Pakistani. Faima Bakar is British-Bangladeshi journalist.

Great Lives
Comedian Sindhu Vee on Prince

Great Lives

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2019 28:47


The comedian Sindhu Vee has loved Prince ever since she was a young girl in India - when her sister gave her illicit cassettes recorded from U.S. radio. Hearing his music changed her life forever, and seeing him perform influenced her career as a comedian. Sindhu is joined by BAFTA-winning investigative journalist Mobeen Azhar (who's seen Prince live 54 times) and presenter Matthew Parris, to discuss the life of Prince Rogers Nelson - a pop polymath and global superstar, who was also a man of extreme contradictions and multiple personas. Produced by Eliza Lomas in Bristol.

Beyond Today
Was Larnell Bruce killed because he was black?

Beyond Today

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 23, 2019 23:35


Tina Daheley speaks with Mobeen Azhar, a journalist and filmmaker for the BBC who travelled to Portland, Oregon to make a film about the death of a 19-year-old African American. The footage of Larnell Bruce running for his life went viral at the time, raising alarm about white supremacy. But in Oregon, Mobeen uncovered a story far more complex than he’d ever anticipated. Produced by Jessica Beck Mixed by Weidong Lin Edited by John Shields

Loose Ends
Bryn Terfel, Brian Bilston, Marina Sirtis, Mobeen Azhar, Jesca Hoop, Nikki Bedi, Clive Anderson

Loose Ends

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2019 38:27


Clive Anderson and Nikki Bedi are joined by Bryn Terfel, Brian Bilston and Marina Sirtis for an eclectic mix of conversation, music and comedy. With music from Jesca Hoop. Producer: Paula McGinley

marina sirtis bryn terfel jesca hoop clive anderson mobeen azhar brian bilston nikki bedi producer paula mcginley
Beyond Today
What did a police shooting reveal about Huddersfield?

Beyond Today

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2019 29:59


Mobeen Azhar thought his hometown was a sleepy place where nothing really happened. Then a young man was shot by police on the motorway and Mobeen went home to investigate the killing. He found way more than he bargained for, and uncovered some uncomfortable truths about the place he grew up.

Rachel Horman
Rachel Horman on BBC Asian Network with Mobeen Azhar feature on Stalking

Rachel Horman

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2019 59:07


Rachel Horman on BBC Asian Network with Mobeen Azhar feature on Stalking including victims of stalking discussing their experiences and Home Office data in relation to numbers of stalking offences. Interviews also with the Crown Prosecution Service and Sarah Wollaston MP.

Saturday Live
Bradley Walsh, Jodie Kidd and Mobeen Azhar

Saturday Live

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2019 84:36


Aasmah Mir and Mobeen Azhar are joined by the actor and TV presenter Bradley Walsh. Currently starring in Doctor Who, he talks about going on a father and son road trip in the US, where he was pushed to his limits with cowboy training and sky diving! Former professional footballer and teacher, Len Johnrose, describes his small victories, silver linings and making the most of living with motor-neurone disease. Gary Budd is a chimney sweep and also the founder, head coach and chief coxswain of The Pilot Gig Club in Lewes, East Sussex. He explains why he started the club and how it’s brought the community together. Julia Georgallis gives advice on how to eat your Christmas Tree. She turns hers into everything from fir jam, spruce ice-cream, pine smoked cauliflower and juniper gin! And supermodel and petrolhead turned pub landlady, Jodie Kidd, describes turning 40 and how she’s now living a healthier, more anchored life. With Inheritance Tracks from Simon Williams. He chooses: I Whistle a Happy Tune from The King and I and Lullabye, sung by Billy Joel. Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Eleanor Garland

Life Hacks - Careers Toolkit

Radio 1 Life Hacks' Katie Thistleton and Dr Radha, 1Xtra Talks' Reece Parkinson and Asian Networks' Mobeen Azhar team up for a one off special to discuss the biggest issues of the year. The presenters have discussed topics such as Feminism, Body Image and Sexuality with the experts in 2018. But now they've come together to give their opinions on the most controversial issues affecting you in 2018. Racism, Brexit and Me Too are all on the table.

No Masala Podcast
"What Went Wrong With the BBC's #BritishAsian Debate?" EP017

No Masala Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 17, 2018 85:16


This weeks episode comes off the back of a series of programmes that the BBC is producing entitled 'The Big British Asian Summer'. Within this series there have been a number of documentaries and also debates - one of which was Mobeen Azhar and Nomia Iqbal's "Being British Asian: Who Do We Think We Are?", where our own Eyec Jae, was invited to join the panel. Watch here: https://youtu.be/55wEIxNLVwg A contentious moment in the debate developed around the question of 'should British Asians be optimistic?' (1hr 18mins into the debate show) and shortly after the show, Eyec expressed his disappointment... Which luckily for you guys, you get a full uncut explanation of his thoughts around the conversation, an observation of the participants and more. Mo and TWLVE mentioned off the podcast that something in the media made them "feel sorry" for Tommy Robinson since he was jailed for contempt of court. They give an insight into what they really meant by that. We also get in to whether Google and all of this technology is recording our conversations, the benefits of CBD oil and some plans for No Masala. ++ SONGS OF THE WEEK MO’s pick: DIE YOUNG by RODDY RICCH EYEC’s pick: WHIPPED CREAM by ARI LENNOX TWLVE’s pick: MY LIFE by ERYKAH BADU

Fortunately... with Fi and Jane
53. Quiffo Magnifico with Mobeen Azhar

Fortunately... with Fi and Jane

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2018 33:16


Presenter, producer, and one man Northern powerhouse Mobeen Azhar joins Fi and Jane for a chat and a flapjack. They discuss some of Mobeen’s programmes which range from a new film about The Satanic Verses to radio documentaries about imams who give sex advice, British jihadism, and being transgender in Pakistan. Plus, Fi and Jane on their trip to the races with Clare Balding, and the adventures of an obstreperous goat named Mary Jane.

From Our Own Correspondent Podcast

Making sense of Italian politics, faking the news, and wedding suit shopping in Pakistan. Kate Adie presents correspondents' stories from around the world: James Reynolds looks back on an eventful few months in Italy, and at what filled the gap between elections in March and a new government taking office in June. Emily Webb meets a man accused of being a witch in Papua New Guinea. He says he was almost beaten to death by his own family and now lives in a refuge alongside others who've been branded sorcerers and driven from their land. In preparation for his wedding, Mobeen Azhar finds himself in the sprawling concrete and iron beast that is Zainab market in Karachi. A grimy and sweaty place, he says, that's considered 'too local' for some locals in Pakistan. Sophia Smith Galer meets the male Baladi (or belly) dancer challenging gender stereotypes in Lebanon. And the staged 'murder' of Arcady Babchenko has got Kevin Connolly thinking about fakes, forgeries and the murky world of international espionage.

Seriously…
The Dawn of British Jihad

Seriously…

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2018 39:10


Before 9/11 British attitudes to partaking in faith-inspired armed combat were... different. British Muslims travelled freely to fight in Afghanistan, Bosnia, Burma and Kashmir for a few weeks or months, and then returned home to their day jobs or studies - few questions asked. In this programme, Mobeen Azhar sheds light on the people and organisations involved in this early wave of British involvement in Jihad - the youth organisations which helped send hundreds of young Brits to fight overseas. The programme also reveals reports featured in magazines published in the 1990s by Lashka-e-Taiba - the terrorist group behind the 2008 Mumbai attacks. Within its pages are detailed reports on how its leader Hafiz Saeed came to Britain in the mid-90s to spread the word on fighting a holy war, find recruits and raise money. The programme hears from those who answered his call - the British Muslims who built bridges with militant groups in South Asia and beyond. Many of these 'pioneers' came from Britain's Salafi community - followers of a strict, literal interpretation of Islam. Since 9/11 the Salafis - sometimes known as Wahhabis - have often been named as the key influencers in the global jihad, but is that accurate? The programme also explains the nuances of Salafism and how this early period of British involvement in Jihad was itself hugely divisive within the British Salafi community, creating a schism between a peaceful pious majority, and those who chose to take up arms. Producers: Richard Fenton-Smith & Sajid Iqbal.

Analysis
Offence, Power and Progress

Analysis

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2017 29:02


In 2017 it's easier than ever to express offence. The angry face icon on Facebook, a sarcasm-loaded tweet or a (comparatively) old-fashioned blog post allow us to highlight the insensitivities of others and how they make us feel - in a matter of moments. Increasingly, offence has consequences: people are told what they can and cannot wear, comedy characters are put to bed. Earlier this year, a white artist was condemned for her depiction of the body of a murdered black teenager. Those who were offended demanded that the painting be destroyed because 'white creative freedoms have been founded on the constraint of others'. It's easy to scoff. Detractors refer to those asking for a new level of cultural sensitivity as "snowflakes" and insist the offence they feel is self-indulgent. But history teaches that fringe discussions often graduate to mainstream norms. So are these new idealists setting a fresh standard for cultural sensitivity? A standard that society will eventually come to observe? Mobeen Azhar puts aside familiar critiques about the threat to free speech. Instead, he tries to understand the challenging arguments put forward by those who are pushing for new norms, and who believe that being offended will create a more culturally aware, progressive society. Featuring contributions from X-Factor star Honey G, black lesbian punk rockers Big Joanie and RuPaul's Drag Race contestant Charlie Hides Producer: Tim Mansel.

The Report
Chemsex

The Report

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2015 28:14


Crystal Meth, GHB/GBL and Mephedrone form what some health workers call an 'un-holy trinity' of drugs that together can heighten arousal and strip away inhibitions. They've become increasingly popular on London's gay scene, and the effects can see some users taking part in weekend-long sex parties, involving multiple partners. For Radio 4's The Report, Mobeen Azhar speaks to men entrenched in this lifestyle and explores the impact the so-called 'chemsex' scene is having on public health services. It's a scene where unsafe sex is common and has been cited as a contributing factor in the rising number of HIV infections in London, posing new challenges to those trying to promote the safe sex message. Such parties are fuelled by technology and smartphone dating apps, which have triggered a social shift where men have moved out of bars and clubs and into private homes - out of reach to sexual health and drug advice services. A potential solution to help protect those involved in the scene is Pre Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) - the practice of issuing men with HIV medication before they become HIV positive, which studies have shown as an effective means to reduce HIV infection. PrEp has been championed by the World Health Organisation, saying it could prevent 1 million new HIV infections around the world. Its advocates in Britain suggest it should be made available on-demand as soon as possible - but how affordable is it? And will fears that it will only encourage more unsafe sex prove true? Presenter: Mobeen Azhar Producer: Richard Fenton-Smith.

Crossing Continents
Hunting the Taliban

Crossing Continents

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2014 28:00


Mobeen Azhar reports from Karachi, Pakistan's biggest city, where police are at war with the Taliban. Given rare access to the work of the police by a Senior Superintendent in Karachi's Criminal Investigation Department, Mobeen joins officers on a night time raid in search of the men who train suicide bombers. He meets a suspect in custody who brags about planting bombs and describes how he urges teenage boys to sacrifice their lives in violent jihad. Mobeen also talks to a businessman who was kidnapped for ransom and meets the families of police officers who have been killed by the militants. Assassinations linked to political parties have blighted the city for over a decade but today, more than 70 groups representing the militant Taliban are also fighting for control. This guerrilla war, once confined to the tribal belt of Waziristan has moved into Karachi with devastating results.

The Documentary Podcast: Archive 2013

Mobeen Azhar investigates life in gay, urban Pakistan and finds out what it's really like to be gay in Pakistan.

Crossing Continents
Inside Gay Pakistan

Crossing Continents

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2013 27:50


Mobeen Azhar investigates gay life in urban Pakistan and despite the country's religious conservatism and homosexuality being a crime there, he finds a vibrant gay scene, all aided by social media. He meets gay people at underground parties, shrines and hotels and finds out what it's really like to be gay in Pakistan. As one man tells him, "The best thing about being gay in Pakistan is you can easily hook up with guys over here. You just need to know the right moves and with a click you can get any guy you want." At a gay party he meets an NGO worker who then takes him to one of Karachi's prime cruising locations - a shrine to a 9th Century Muslim saint. Mobeen meets a "masseur", who works on the street advertising his services. The masseur's real job is selling sexual services to men - with the full knowledge of his wife. And with great difficulty, Mobeen speaks to a lesbian couple, who conceal their relationship from their own parents. One of them argues that it is too soon for gay Pakistanis to fight openly for political rights and that they must find happiness in the personal sphere. Mobeen discovers that while urban Pakistanis may easily be able to find sex, being in a relationship is far more difficult. Reporter: Mobeen Azhar Producer: Helena Merriman.

The Documentary Podcast: Archive 2013
Hazaras, Hatred and Pakistan

The Documentary Podcast: Archive 2013

Play Episode Listen Later May 2, 2013 26:57


Mobeen Azhar investigates violence against Pakistan's Hazara minority in the city of Quetta.

Crossing Continents
Hazaras, Hatred and Pakistan

Crossing Continents

Play Episode Listen Later May 2, 2013 28:28


Mobeen Azhar travels to the Pakistani city of Quetta to investigate how it has become the scene of violent and indiscriminate attacks by Sunni militants against the local ethnic Hazara community. It's a city which has become effectively a no-go area for foreign journalists due to the persistent and intensifying violence. Mobeen tells the story of a single day in January of this year when over 100 people lost their lives in twin bombings in Quetta. Claiming responsibility was the Sunni militant group Lashkar-e-Jhangvi. Mobeen retraces the story of the bombings, and examines the growing security concerns in a district dominated by the Shia Hazara community. He speaks to Fayyaz Mohammed, a candidate in the forthcoming elections who has links to Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, and talks with Paul Bhatti, who until recently was the Pakistani Minister of National Harmony. Bhatti blames the government's inability to enforce "effective policy" on Pakistan's long history of military dictatorship. Azhar meets blast survivors and the families of victims, and finds out how the security situation is causing many young Hazaras to leave Quetta to seek a better life elsewhere - despite the dangers of putting their lives in the hands of people smugglers. Producer: Julie Ball.

Crossing Continents
Cold Turkey in Karachi

Crossing Continents

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 9, 2012 28:00


Karachi is facing a drugs epidemic. Pakistan's sprawling port city has an estimated half a million chronic heroin addicts. The drug is cheap and easily available as it comes across the Pakistan/Afghanistan border, before being shipped to Europe and the US. Mobeen Azhar finds out how a charity is trying to help addicts and their families. An NGO called the Edhi Foundation operates what is thought to be the world's largest drug rehabilitation centre. It's here that Mobeen meets brothers Yusaf and Husein who have checked themselves in. Patients who volunteer for treatment like this can leave whenever they feel ready. But the majority of patients, like 24-year-old Saqandar, are brought in by their desperate relatives, and according to Edhi rules, only the family can decide when they will be released. The centre offers heroin users food and painkillers to ease the physical symptoms of withdrawal - but conventional treatment like methadone is not available. So does enforced cold turkey really work? Mobeen follows the stories of three heroin addicts and finds out how the stress of their addiction takes its toll on them and their families. Presenter: Mobeen Azhar Producer: Ben Crighton.

The Report
Crime-Cutting Miracles?

The Report

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2011 27:59


Following the riots the government has been keen to look at initiatives which hold out the promise of preventing violent crime. The Violence Reduction Unit was set up in Glasgow in 2004. The murder rate in the city had been high for generations. The radical idea the VRU had was that, rather than solve violent crime, police should prevent it. Violence is treated like a disease - tough police enforcement goes hand in hand with community initiatives aimed at changing the culture of violence. Police initiatives in the US also have the same aspiration. Bill Bratton, who will be advising the government, was police commissioner in New York & Los Angeles when violent crime fell dramatically. Mobeen Azhar asks how initiatives, in both Scotland & the US, actually operate & whether they work. Contributors Commissioner Bill Bratton Professor Larry Sherman Professor Andrew Karmen Dr Michael Murray Karyn McCluskey, VRU DS Steven Kettenhorn, Strathclyde Police Superintendent Bob Hamilton, Strathclyde Police Angela Morgan, Chief Exec, Includem Commander Steve Rodhouse, MET Producer : Rosamund Jones.