AfterHours with All About Eve

In this deeply personal and thought-provoking episode of AfterHours with All About Eve, Bani Anand sits down with poet Nayab Midha for an unfiltered conversation on poetry, privilege, self-acceptance, and the harsh realities of social media. Nayab opens up about her journey—the highs, the lows, and the privileges that come with success. She beautifully articulates how poetry is about emotion and relatability, not power. As the conversation unfolds, Nayab discusses 'Muskurao', a poem that resonated deeply by challenging society’s perception of failure. She shares how poetry became an act of unlearning, breaking free from academic expectations and embracing storytelling. The podcast shifts to self-love and beauty standards as Nayab recites 'Tum Khubsurat Ho', a poem urging people to embrace their flaws. From being shamed for her curly hair and husky voice to finding confidence in her uniqueness, she credits her mother for teaching her resilience and empathy. But with recognition comes vulnerability. Nayab recalls how her deeply personal poem Papa Perfectionist Hai was reduced to a meme, sparking hate and trolling. Bani and Nayab explore gender roles and societal conditioning. Nayab shares a moment from the pandemic when her brother, frustrated with household chores, used "feminist" as an insult. The discussion expands into relationships and the red flags that are often ignored. Nayab examines how generational shifts have shaped women’s roles—grandmothers were confined to their homes, mothers balanced both worlds, and today’s women challenge gendered expectations. She critiques how men are raised to chase success, while women are conditioned to see marriage as their ultimate goal, creating an imbalance in how both perceive freedom—a theme she explores in her show Rajkumari. Nayab reflects on love and emotional security, admitting she once tested her partner’s patience, knowing that once deeply in love, leaving becomes harder. She confesses that she worried whether earning more than her partner would create tension, but the biggest green flag? Nothing makes him insecure. The interview moves to the three things Nayab would never give up in love—her self-respect, dreams, and rights. The episode concludes on a playful yet insightful note with "What’s the Catch?", where Nayab deciphers hidden relationship red flags—partners who subtly undermine ambition or remain silent in front of family. (00:00) Episode begins (01:59) What does it feel like to be so young and self-made? (02:48) What has helped Nayab connect with people? (04:33) Why did she struggle in school? (07:23) Does she resent the years of her childhood when she couldn’t figure herself out? (09:00) ‘Tum Khoobsurat Ho’(10:07) The values Nayab holds dearest (13:53) The worst thing she has read about herself on social media (17:53) Do her parents feel she shares too much about their family? (20:55) On patriarchy (23:55) Nayab’s perspective on equality and feminism (25:10) "Feminist kahin ki!"(28:00) What would Nayab say to young girls about making money? (32:04) Are bangles shackles for women? (35:32) We have sold the dream of marriage to women and the dream of success to men.(40:31) How Nayab used to test her partner (46:07) The little things she enjoys doing with her partner (48:48) One-sided love – Nayab’s thoughts (51:21) Humans enjoy passion as an emotion(54:05) Three things she will never give up for love (55:23) The difference between adjustment and compromise (56:35) How does Nayab unwind AfterHours? (57:52) Game – ‘What’s the Catch?’ Follow us: Instagram:   / allabouteve_in   Facebook:   / allaboutevein  Pinterest:   / allabouteve_in  Website: https://allabouteve.co.in/#nayabmidha #poetry #poet #podcast #interview #relationship #feminism #love #marriage #marriedlife #socialmedia #muskurao

In this heartfelt episode of AfterHours with All About Eve, Bani Anand sits down with content creator Ankush Bahuguna, known for challenging gender norms and redefining masculinity. In this episode, he opens up about navigating online hate, and his viral Digital Arrest Scam experience, while sharing insights on fame, creativity, and self-worth.The podcast begins with Ankush’s journey of breaking the outdated belief that men cannot wear makeup. Inspired by his love for painting and a background in architecture, his sharp eye for aesthetics shines through his work. Ankush shares his struggles with online trolling and how support from his inner circle—especially during the pandemic—kept him grounded. He highlights society’s double standards around male grooming, where styling hair and beards is accepted, but makeup is frowned upon. His bond with his mother, who was his first muse for makeup, is a touching story. Though his parents were initially hesitant about his unconventional career, they eventually embraced it after witnessing his success.A turning point in Ankush Bahuguna's career came when his character ‘Kanjoos Pankaj’ went viral, bringing him widespread recognition. Despite his achievements, Ankush admits that fear and the pressure to constantly create often tie his self-worth to productivity—something many creators struggle with.Bani explores the challenges of scaling as a creator. While delegation might seem like an easy solution, Ankush points out that his authenticity is what makes his content irreplaceable. His viral makeup videos resonated because his audience connected with his diverse range of interests. Bani also compliments his dance skills, and Ankush shares the effort involved in making content appear effortless.The interview shifts to his dreams of acting, which Ankush finds more challenging than content creation due to factors such as looks, timing, and networking—an area where he sometimes feels out of place in Mumbai’s often superficial social scene. He also reflects on creators like Bhuvan Bam and Prajakta Koli, who are successfully bridging the gap between digital fame and mainstream entertainment.(00:00) Episode begins (01:37) Ankush Bahuguna on wearing makeup (04:10) Was he ever afraid to put on makeup? (06:49) The hypocrisy of men (08:16) His mother’s reaction to him putting on makeup (11:40) Transitioning from architecture to content creation (13:10) His first career high (15:01) His first career low (16:28) Does Ankush have frequent meltdowns? (19:06) The competitiveness of content creation (24:52) Ankush Bahuguna's acting journey(29:01) Why he struggles with networking (30:21) Why acting is still his Plan A (31:03) On Bhuvan Bam and creators’ massive fan following (32:48) Ankush's take on fame (35:27) How he deals with hate (35:51) What happens when he shares something personal and people don’t get the point? (36:52) Ankush Bahuguna's video on digital arrest (39:39) The trolling he faced after the digital arrest scam (41:46) Understanding the mentality of trolls (43:49) Is all engagement good engagement? (44:50) A creator he admires – Yashraj Mukhate (47:07) A gig Ankush did just for the money (50:09) Does it bother him when others land big brand deals? (51:17) Will content creators ever get lead roles in films? (54:25) His most starstruck moment (55:44) How creators have become key players in brand communication (57:26) Has Ankush ever turned down a project? (01:00:16) People from his past who treated him badly but now reach out (01:03:20) The funniest thing Ankush has read about himself on Reddit (01:04:43) His take on romantic love (01:07:49) New things he’s excited about – Spoken Fest (01:09:18) How Ankush Bahuguna unwinds AfterHours (01:11:19) Game: Golmol or Not?Follow us: Instagram:   / allabouteve_in   Website: https://allabouteve.co.in/#ankushbairwagandhigram #ankush #podcast #interview #trending

In this episode of AfterHours with All About Eve, Bani Anand sits down with Laxmi Singh, the trailblazing Commissioner of Police, Gautam Buddh Nagar, to discuss leadership, resilience, and the evolving nature of policing. From being an engineering gold medallist to choosing the Indian Police Service, Laxmi Singh talks about her unwavering dedication to justice. She opens up about the immense responsibility of her role—how each day is measured by impact, the challenges of distressing situations, and why continuous learning is crucial. Laxmi Singh reflects on how sociology shaped her understanding of society and why critical thinking is essential in governance. The first woman to become a Commissioner of Police in Uttar Pradesh, Laxmi Singh discusses the personal sacrifices of law enforcement, the dilemmas of high-stakes roles, and how upholding justice often invites resistance. The police chief of Noida also discusses the shift from incident-centric to victim-centric policing, the importance of community trust, and how policing must evolve beyond authority to support and safeguard citizens. She highlights how technology and analytics aid in crime prevention, from tracking hotspots to modernising law enforcement. Bani, a long-time Noida resident, reflects on how the city has become safer, with Laxmi Singh sharing how small changes—like installing light bulbs at underpasses—reduced crime. Being a pioneer in a profession riddled with danger, we ask Laxmi Singh why women are always asked "balancing work and life". While sharing her thoughts, the top cop recalls a touching moment when her daughter said she wanted to be a policewoman like her.The podcast also touches on gender and leadership, with Laxmi Singh recalling how she overcame scepticism and earned the respect of her team. She breaks down crime patterns, explaining how counselling and early intervention can prevent first-time offenders from becoming hardened criminals. Initiatives like Mission Shakti have helped young men correct their behaviour before it is too late. To wrap up, a fun rapid-fire round sees IPS Laxmi Singh suggesting “punishments” for social nuisances—what should happen to those making reels in the metro or driving on the wrong side? Her witty responses will leave you entertained and thoughtful. Timestamps(00:00) Episode begins(02:43) What is everyday life like for Laxmi Singh?(03:38) When she feels she hasn’t accomplished what she intended(05:00) From engineering and an MA in Sociology to joining the IPS and clearing the UPSC exam(07:57) On reading and why it is important(09:17) Three books Laxmi Singh would recommend(12:07) The cost she has paid to reach where she is today(14:19) Threats for doing good work(15:23) How the police chief of Noida manages work-life balance(17:53) On why women are often asked about work-life balance(20:44) How does her daughter feel about who she is today?(23:20) Introducing daughters to two different worlds(28:30) How the police commissioner detaches herself from the crimes she witnesses(31:22) On comprehensive policing(32:53) How Laxmi Singh's leadership style has evolved over time(37:51) How much of her policing is analytical and predictive versus instinctive(41:10) How she stopped crime in Noida’s underpasses(43:42) Have her juniors ever felt uncomfortable reporting to a female boss?(47:19) How she categorises criminals(49:52) On Mission Shakti Phase 1(52:04) How does Laxmi Singh unwind AfterHours?(54:56) Game: What punishment would Laxmi Singh give?

Bani Anand sits down for an exclusive interview with Feroz Abbas Khan, the visionary director of Mughal-e-Azam: The Musical, and actor Kirti Killedar, who brings Anarkali to life on stage. Feroz Abbas Khan shares in the podcast that the aim was never to create history but to bring a vision to life. Producing a Broadway-style musical in India once seemed impossible, but with the right team and resources, they took the leap. Just days before opening night, he feared failure, but when the curtains rose, magic unfolded. What began as a 15-show run turned into over 300 sold-out performances, culminating in a milestone celebration in Delhi. For Kirti Killedar, portraying Anarkali is both an honour and a responsibility, requiring deep emotional and physical preparation. One of the biggest challenges discussed in the interview was securing funding for such a large-scale production. Theatre often faces financial struggles, and despite high ticket prices, Mughal-e-Azam still runs at a loss in Delhi. Theatre is a passionate pursuit, and for Kirti Killedar, playing Anarkali required intense preparation—mastering Kathak, voice modulation, and acting. Performing live, she says, is meditative, demanding complete presence. At Feroz’s request, she performs the iconic song "Jab Pyaar Kiya Toh Darna Kya" live for us. Discussing the casting process, Feroz Abbas Khan revealed that while some actors are discovered through auditions, true theatre demands discipline and commitment. In this interview, the director highlights Mughal-e-Azam’s powerful female characters and the sacrifices love demands. Bani references the iconic line, "Mera dil koi aapka Hindustan nahi," while Kirti Killedar shares her deep connection with the audience. Feroz stresses that theatre requires dedication—"this isn’t a 10-second reel." As they prepare for their 300th Delhi show, he credits Mayuri Upadhyay for the breathtaking choreography. Managing a production of this scale—with Manish Malhotra’s costumes and eight 55-foot containers touring the US—is a feat of discipline, faith, and passion. Reflecting on the journey, Feroz recalls the daughter of K. Asif, the director of the film Mughal-e-Azam, hugging him, saying her father would have embraced him too. Mughal-e-Azam is more than a theatre production—it is a cultural treasure. If you have not seen it yet, this podcast episode is your sign to witness history in motion!(00:00) Episode Begins(02:26) How does it feel to create something as majestic as Mughal-e-Azam?(04:50) Kirti Killedar on playing Anarkali(05:52) Why Mughal-e-Azam?(08:51) 'Mughal-e-Azam makes losses every time it comes to Delhi'(11:20) "Theatre is an actor’s medium"(14:17) How did Kirti prepare for Anarkali? (15:41) On "Pyaar Kiya Toh Darna Kya"(16:34) Difference between real love and fake love(20:26) Mughal-e-Azam as a woman’s voice(21:22) Who was more in love-Salim or Anarkali?(22:28) Kirti sings Pyaar Kiya Toh Darna Kya(24:45) Casting for Mughal-e-Azam(26:01) On influencers and theatre(29:02) Major faux pas that was difficult to recover from(31:54) When one of the main characters forgot his line on stage(33:41) Has Kirti ever panicked as Anarkali?(33:22) How do they manage logistics?(37:01) On choreography and Mayuri Upadhyay(39:25) Best compliment received(40:35) Legacy of the film and burden of preserving memories(43:03) Kirti’s learning curve(45:01) Feroz Abbas Khan’s learning curve(48:25) "Everyone is treated equally in the team of Mughal-e-Azam"(53:29) On Urdu and retaining original dialogues(57:17) How does the Mughal-e-Azam crew unwind AfterHours?(59:59) Do men compliment each other?(01:02:20) Game: Kya Golmol Karein?Follow us: Instagram:   / allabouteve_in   Facebook:   / allaboutevein  Pinterest:   / allabouteve_in  Website: https://allabouteve.co.in/

Did you know that traditional Hindu weddings should not have saat phere? Did you also know that weddings should not happen after dark?In this thought-provoking episode of AfterHours with All About Eve, Bani Anand sits down with Pandit Acharya Vidya Prasad Mishra to unveil the reality of popular Indian traditions. Together, they debunk age-old misconceptions and explore the deeper meaning behind marriage rituals and more. The podcast begins with Bani introducing Pandit ji and sharing how her all-women team often discusses marriage. Seeking clarity on the origins and purpose of these rituals, she invites Pandit ji to shed light on the concept of marriage from a scholarly perspective. The discussion kicks off with a surprising revelation: according to Pandit ji, the traditional practice of taking saat pheras has been misinterpreted over time. He explains that there should actually be only four pheras, representing the four objectives of life, while the 7 vows (Saptapadi) signify the promises exchanged by the bride and groom.Pandit ji critiques modern misinterpretations of wedding rituals, such as restricting brides from visiting their parents without permission—practices he attributes to colonial influences rather than Indian scriptures. He calls for a revolution to address inequality in marriage, including the undue financial and emotional burden on the bride’s family. Challenging the obsession with late-night muhurat and lavish weddings, he advocates for joyful, daytime ceremonies and meaningful rituals over extravagant displays of wealth. Bani also raises questions about the ritual of kanyadaan, to which Pandit ji responds with a strong critique. He emphasises that the term “daan” (donation) is inappropriate, as women are not objects to be given away. Instead, he highlights how marriage is about unity and equality, serving as a bridge between two families. In another fascinating segment, they discuss the tradition of naamkaran (naming ceremony). Pandit ji sheds light on its origins, explaining how it was initially introduced to resolve family disputes over naming a child. However, he reveals how the practice has evolved into superstition over time, with some exploiting it for personal gain. He advises focusing on choosing simple and meaningful names rather than adhering to arbitrary rituals.(00:00) Episode begins (02:22) Debunking the myth of the seven 'pheras' (05:30) Understanding 'saptapadi' (06:18) The meaning behind each step in 'saptapadi' (11:49) Pandit ji explains the sequence of wedding ceremonies: From roka to engagement (13:42) Discussing money and what our vedas say about it (16:42) Strange promises brides are asked to make & gender inequality (19:02) On the inequality in wedding rituals (21:59) The truth behind the muhurat system in Hindu weddings (22:30) The significance of 'jaimala' and 'vedi' (26:00) Matching gunas in janampatri and overspending on weddings (27:22) The meaning of mangalsutra (28:33) The dark reality of the dowry system (30:18) What "dhoom dhaam" really means (34:09) Addressing deep-rooted superstitions (39:13) The origins of sindoor and its significance (43:09) Why only women wear marriage symbols (47:02) The meaning of "pani grahan" & wedding vows (49:00) The controversy of kanyadaan (56:09) Embracing our culture while letting go of outdated practices (58:02) Exploring the different types of bhakts (1:00:09) The naamkaran ceremony: Origins and evolutionFollow us: AfterHours Clips-    / @afterhourswithaaeclips  Instagram:   / allabouteve_in   Facebook:   / allaboutevein  Pinterest:   / allabouteve_in  Website: https://allabouteve.co.in/#indianwedding#weddings#indianweddingtraditions#weddingtradition#traditions#podcast#interview#trending#kanyadanam#naamkaran#superstitious

Join Bani Anand for an exclusive conversation with actors and producers Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal and the powerhouse team behind Girls Will Be Girls! In this episode of AfterHours with All About Eve podcast (Season 4), Richa Chadha, Ali Fazal, Keshav, and Preeti share their journey of bringing the film to life, offering insights into its production, release, and heartfelt reception. Bani also speaks to Richa Chadha about her unconventional role in Heeramandi and Ali Fazal gives insight into his character in Khufiya. The podcast takes a light-hearted turn as the cast shares nostalgic tales of first love and school mischief. Ali Fazal recounts his boarding school "chit" delivery system, Preeti remembers typed love confessions, and Keshav reflects on balancing studies with his first love. Richa and Ali discuss the evolution of love, emphasising deep companionship and mutual respect, while Preeti shares how her mother’s unconditional love shaped her perspective. The group delves into breaking generational parenting patterns, advocating for balanced parenting and fostering emotional independence in children. New parents Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal also explore the changing nature of love and the challenges of raising a child in an AI-driven world, sharing their hopes for nurturing a supportive environment. On handling fame, Richa Chadha says she stays grounded by ignoring both praise and criticism, while Keshav practises detachment through meditation and the Bhagavad Gita. The cast also tackles unrealistic beauty standards perpetuated by social media, with Preeti commenting on the uniform ideals and Richa critiquing beauty pageant clichés. As the interview moves forward, Richa Chadha reflects on taking career risks from Gangs of Wasseypur to Heeramandi, while Ali Fazal discusses his iconic role as Guddu in Mirzapur and his accent mishaps in Fast & Furious.The stars also share how they unwind AfterHours, from Ali’s gaming addiction to Preeti’s love of relaxing baths and Keshav’s calming walks with Javed Bashir’s music and a 10-rupee coffee. (0:00) Episode begins (2:00) Preeti and Keshav: life after Girls Will Be Girls (2:37) Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal on co-producing their first film (4:40) First loves and school days (8:43) Keshav and Preeti on first love (10:54) Richa and Ali’s changing perspective on love (14:08) Parental love and expectations (15:14) Breaking generational patterns (17:35) Keshav’s definition of love (18:05) Bani’s thoughts on love (20:06) Challenges of modern parenting (21:14) Preeti and Keshav’s bond with their mothers (24:08) Richa and Ali’s relationship with their mothers (26:57) Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal on raising their daughter, Zuneyra, in an AI-driven world (29:36) Keshav and Preeti on validation and attention (33:14) Richa and Ali on validation and attention (36:53) Fame and the public spotlight (39:30) Childhood crush confessions (41:58) Children, technology, and modern parenting (43:03) The impact of technology on relationships (43:58) Technology and unrealistic beauty standards (46:41) Richa Chadha on Heeramandi memes(47:27) Changing accents (51:13) Looking ahead to 2025 (55:33) Their most successful experiment (58:27) Ali Fazal on Shweta Tripathi (1:00:07) How the team of Girls Will Be Girls unwinds AfterHoursFollow us: AfterHours Clips-    / @afterhourswithaaeclips  Instagram:   / allabouteve_in   Facebook:   / allaboutevein  Pinterest:   / allabouteve_in  Website: https://allabouteve.co.in/#AliFazal#RichaChadha#afterhourswithaae#afterhours#afterhourswithallabouteve#girlswillbegirls#podcast#interview