Rap: Music or Glorified Poetry? Has film music lost its soul, deteriorating from an art form to a conveyor belt of mass production? What Raagas lie hidden beneath your favourite chartbusters? Find the answers to these thought-provoking questions as we sit down with the renowned musicologist, poet, and storyteller, Shri KL Pandey, in this exclusive episode of Left Right Centre. 

Oral history has played a crucial role in shaping our understanding of the past, but how reliable is it? In this compelling episode of Left, Right & Centre, we sit down with historian, social activist, filmmaker, and heritage conservationist Sohail Hashmi to examine the power and pitfalls of oral traditions.

In this episode of Left, Right & Centre, we sit down with Danish Husain - actor, theatre artist, and storyteller - known for his riveting performances in Tanaav, Bard of Blood, Peepli Live, Soorma, and more. From his early days as a banker to making a name for himself in theatre and cinema, Danish shares his incredible journey of transformation. He talks about his passion for “qissebaazi” (the art of storytelling), his experiences working with legends like Barry John and Habib Tanvir, and his thoughts on the evolving landscape of Indian theatre and film. Join us for an insightful conversation filled with anecdotes, reflections, and a deep dive into the world of performing arts. 

From sharing screen space with Shah Rukh Khan in Jab Tak Hai Jaan to winning hearts as Sunny in Filmistaan and becoming a fan favourite with The Family Man, Sharib Hashmi has carved a unique space for himself in the industry. In this candid conversation on Left, Right, Centre, he takes us through his inspiring journey - his early days, including his stint in MTV Bakra, his struggles, his breakthrough moments, and the stories behind his most memorable roles. He opens up about working with stalwarts like Manoj Bajpayee in The Family Man and the challenges of the film industry, and even how he unexpectedly became a viral meme sensation! From heartfelt anecdotes to behind-the-scenes fun, this interview is packed with insights and laughter.

In this episode of Left, Right, Centre, we sit down with Pushpesh Pant, an Indian academic, historian, and one of India's leading experts on International Relations. This discussion takes place at the Nainital Literature Festival, where we explore the growing influence of global powers on South Asia and examine whether Pakistan truly receives support from the world's most powerful nations. We delve into the shifting global alliances and the evolving tripolar power structure dominated by three superpowers: the USA , China , and Russia . Additionally, Nitin Sukhija and Pushpesh Pant analyse significant terror attacks on India , such as those in Pulwama, Pahalgam, Uri, and Balakot, focusing on their geopolitical repercussions and the strategic responses they prompted.

Step into the world of royal legacy and cultural elegance in this episode of Left, Right, Centre, as we speak with Nawab Masood Abdullah - a direct descendant of the Royal Nawabs of Lucknow. In this interesting conversation, he shares stories of his ancestral home, Sheesh Mahal, the rich tehzeeb of Lucknow, and the importance of preserving heritage in today’s fast-changing world. A passionate theatre enthusiast and actor in films like Gulabo Sitabo, Nawab Masood brings history to life through performance and personal narrative. He speaks passionately about Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, debunking colonial narratives that tried to defame him, and highlighting his deep love for both Hindus and Muslims - a true symbol of communal harmony. He also clears the air around royal claimants vs true lineage, discussing intriguing cases like Begum Wilayat and Princess Fay Jahan Ara, and sheds light on the confusion over who really belongs to the Nawabi bloodline.

Pushpesh Pant, a renowned Food Critic, Indian academic, columnist, historian, and one of India's leading experts on International Relations. This discussion takes place at the Nainital Literature Festival, where Pushpesh Pant explores the deep, emotional, and often absurd world of food in India. From the moment we are born until the day we leave this world, food accompanies us. He reflects on how food has evolved beyond a basic need; it has become a matter of ego, a battleground for politics, and a canvas for cultural shifts. He discusses the emergence of new food trends such as Kumaoni Food and Free-Meal Influencers , and notes how traditional snacks like bread pakora and samosas are gradually fading away, replaced by the growing popularity of momos and other steamed delicacies. He also emphasises that Food and Sex are the foundations of human existence - one nourishes the body, while the other ensures the future. The conversation then shifts to his translation of Namita Gokhale's evocative novel, "Raag Pahadi," which is a deeply nostalgic tale of memory, loss, and the everyday rhythms of mountain life.

we pay tribute to the legendary theatre maestro Habib Tanvir on his death anniversary, June 8th. Joining us is Himanshu Tyagi , theatre artist, writer, and former associate of Tanvir, who shares rare insights and personal anecdotes from his time working alongside the iconic playwright, director, poet, and producer.  We revisit some of Tanvir’s most influential plays like Agra Bazaar, Dekh Rahe Hain Nayan, and Raj Rakt, and delve into the legacy of Naya Theatre , the pioneering touring company he founded in 1959. This episode highlights how Tanvir’s collaboration with Chhattisgarhi folk artists led to a revolutionary new idiom in Indian theatre - one that struck a deep chord with audiences through timeless productions like Charandas Chor.

we sit down with acclaimed director Abhishek Chaubey to discuss his latest project, Punjab 95 , and the challenges he faced with the Censor Board . Get exclusive insights into the making of the film, the vision behind it, and the controversies that surrounded its release. Abhishek Chaubey also opens up about working with Vishal Bharadwaj for Omkara, making Ishqiya and Dedh Ishqiya , starring Diljit Dosanjh and the role of OTT among other aspects of Indian Cinema .  The conversation also delves into his long-standing creative equation with Vishal Bhardwaj and reflects on the middle-of-the-road cinema and the future of storytelling in India.

we are joined by renowned author Anand Neelakantan - a storyteller who dares to question dominant narratives, be it Rama and Ravana , or Kauravas and Pandavas. Best known for retelling epics from the perspective of the vanquished, Anand takes us through the journey of his celebrated works: Asura : Tale of the Vanquished, Ajaya: Roll of the Dice, Ajaya: Rise of Kali, Vanara , and the Bahubali trilogy and its connection with SS Rajamouli’s blockbuster film by the same name. (Venue courtesy - Nainital Literature Festival)  The conversation dives deep into the concept of multiple truths and how mythology is not one linear narrative but a tapestry of perspectives. What happens when we hear Ravana's story? What does the Mahabharata look like from Duryodhana’s eyes? Through his books, Anand challenges the mono-narrative lens and instead invites us to explore the multi-narrative richness of Indian storytelling traditions.  We also discuss his work as a screenwriter for Bahubali and other shows like Siya Ke Ram, Chakravartin Ashoka Samrat, Swaraj, Adaalat, etc, and how storytelling transforms when written for the screen versus the page.

we sit down with the fiercely talented and refreshingly honest Shalini Vatsa for a wide-ranging conversation that’s as gripping as her performances. From giving voice to the middle-class women on screen, to the extreme lengths she went for authenticity - like spending 50 days without a bath for her unforgettable role as Dhaniya in Peepli Live - Shalini brings raw insight and unfiltered passion to the table.  We trace her artistic journey back to the stage, where she trained and performed under theatre legends like Habib Tanvir and Barry John , and reflect on the defining moments of her career - including the surreal experience of attending the Cannes Film Festival for the screening of her film Homebound . She also opens up about the haunting world of Khauf , the chaotic charm of Ludo , and the gritty realism of Gurgaon and Sacred Games . This is more than an interview - it’s a deep dive into a life lived through powerful storytelling.

In a world where police brutality and corruption often dominate headlines, is it still possible to build a police force the public can trust? In this episode of Left, Right, Centre, we sit down with IPS Officer Tilotama Varma , currently serving as DG, Training, Uttar Pradesh Police. She shares her remarkable journey as a Female IPS Officer , breaking deep-rooted stereotypes faced by women in uniform. From the emotional and physical challenges of policing to recounting a time when she had to sleep with an AK-47 beside her child, her story is one of resilience, courage, and Women Empowerment . We also explore how the relationship between law enforcement and the community has become increasingly strained, and what it will take to repair that trust. Can a more sensitive, professional, and accountable police force be built? Can community policing, diversity training, and stronger accountability measures truly help? Tilotama Varma offers insights into how the system can transform and why it must.

we sit down with Makarand Deshpande , a renowned Indian actor, writer, and director, whose work spans Hindi, Kannada, Marathi, Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam films, and Indian theatre . Makarand reflects on his long-standing theatre legacy through plays like Sir Sir Sarla , Mind Transit, and Einstein. He shares his inspiring journey and stories from Bollywood classics like Satya, Makdee, Sarfarosh, Swades , Jungle, Khatta Meetha, Junglee, and his regional gems like Daagdi Chaawl, Dandupalya, and Ponniyin Selvan (PS-2). He also opens up about Rejecting Lagaan , and what it was like working with legends like Shah Rukh Khan , Aamir Khan, Ashutosh Gowariker, Ram Gopal Verma, and Mani Ratnam . He also mentions his recent global leap into Hollywood with Monkey Man , and what it meant for him to represent Indian talent at the Cannes Film Festival. We also tackle deeper conversations about the role of artists in activism, and whether every stage artist must also become an activist.

If fun is what you're looking for, this 'very funny' episode of Left, Right, Centre will surely make you laugh, as comedian Maheep Singh joins us for a hilarious conversation, where he gets candid about his life and journey into Stand-Up Comedy . He opens up about the Mummy Kaisi Hain joke , shares why he became a stand-up comedian, and talks about the latest trends in Indian Stand-Up Comedy. Additionally, he reflects on the reasons behind the cancellation of his show and how Cancel Culture in India has impacted creative expression.

" Annu Ki Mummy Sunti Ho! " Who doesn't recognise this beloved character from the Gullak series? In this episode of Left, Right, Centre, we sit down with Geetanjali Kulkarni , aka Shanti Mishra from Gullak herself. She is a household name adored by many for her simplicity and unique quirks. In this conversation, Geetanjali opens up and shares unheard stories from her personal life, reveals behind-the-scenes details from Gullak Season 4 , and shares what we can expect in Sony LIV 's Gullak Season 5. Additionally, she discusses her other projects, including Khauf , Court , and Aarya; the rise of OTT, as well as her love for Marathi theatre and culture. Furthermore, she shares her experiences at the National School of Drama (NSD) and her relationship with her actor husband, Atul Kulkarni.

In this episode of Left, Right, Centre, we are joined by Sumit Awasthi , a celebrated journalist who has worked as a TV News Anchor for channels such as Zee News, Aaj Tak, and News18 India. He is one of the few journalists who does not hesitate to call out what is wrong in the Indian Media . Sumit discusses how news reporting has increasingly become influenced by propaganda and Godi Media , rather than by true journalism. He also shares his feelings of betrayal regarding the Anna Andolan, which he explores in his book titled "Unfinished." Additionally, he discusses how news channels operated in the early 2000s and how journalism lost its seriousness once TRP became a significant factor in determining their success.