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A hand-embroidered garment that takes two years to complete. A 70-year-old artisan who walks eight kilometers every Saturday, arriving exactly at 4pm to deliver his work. A designer who refuses to stock small sizes because she believes fashion should celebrate real bodies. Welcome to the revolutionary world of Anjul Bhandari.

The "reigning queen of all things Lucknowi “ doesn't just create exquisite Chikankari embroidery – she's reimagined what luxury fashion can be through a business model that puts artisans first in every decision. Unlike most designers who negotiate prices down,  Anjul maintains a strict "no rejection policy" where whatever price an artisan quotes for their work is what they receive, without question. This commitment to fair compensation directly impacts her pricing, but she makes no apologies.

Her dedication extends beyond fair pay. Anjul Bhandari intentionally works with craftspeople over 60 years old, particularly men practicing Kamdani embroidery, recognizing these master artisans are often marginalized once they age despite their irreplaceable knowledge. She celebrates body diversity by starting her sizes at medium and extending to XL, challenging fashion's obsession with unrealistic proportions. "Why can't a woman look beautiful in a size medium? I don't understand."

Most revolutionary is Anjul’s perspective on sustainability. She argues Indians have always practiced sustainability by treating textiles as heirlooms passed through generations. "We want to make sure that the world follows us and we do not follow the world," she states, inverting the narrative that sustainability is a Western concept being taught to emerging markets.

In an age where AI and mass production dominate, Anjul reminds us that true luxury comes from human connection – between maker and material, between artisan and designer, between garment and wearer. Her collections, with names suggested by the artisans themselves, represent a radical reimagining of fashion's future by honoring its deepest traditions.

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Have you ever wondered how a neurologist balances a career in medicine with a passion for creative content creation? Dr. Sid Warrier, a neurologist from Mumbai, opens up about his unique journey, offering both medical expertise and engaging educational content on social media. Learn how his serendipitous venture into online education during the pandemic transformed into a platform for discussing emotions, the neuroscience of love, and other captivating topics. Dr. Warrier's experience underscores the empathy needed in both his medical practice and content creation, showcasing how these roles enrich his ability to connect with a diverse audience.

Shifting gears, we address evolving ideas around work-life balance and mental health. The conversation challenges outdated concepts of stress, highlighting the thin line between optimal and excessive stress, and how even seemingly innocuous activities like social media browsing can contribute to mental fatigue. As burnout becomes more prevalent, especially among medical professionals, there's a pressing need to tackle mental health issues head-on. We explore the importance of integrating psychological support with traditional medical care, emphasizing a holistic approach to well-being that acknowledges the impact of societal and self-imposed pressures.

Our discussion culminates with an exploration of screen time and its multifaceted impact on mental well-being. We draw analogies between managing screen time and safe driving, stressing the importance of balancing digital exposure with physical activity and mindfulness. The episode highlights the profound effects of unexpected feedback and validation, offering insights into how simple words of encouragement go a long way. Join us for a rich dialogue that offers practical strategies to maintain mental and physical health in a digitally dominated world.

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What if navigating the fashion industry could be as fulfilling as it is challenging? Discover insights from Ritika Mirchandani , a celebrated fashion designer who has made her mark from the vibrant streets of Los Angeles to the bustling fashion scene of New York City. Influenced by her designer mother, Ritika takes us through her inspiring journey, sharing how emotions and creativity intertwine in her work. Explore the evolving landscape of Indian fashion, where modern demands meet traditional craftsmanship, and hear firsthand how Ritika balances artistic freedom with the pressures of commercial success.

Join us as we unravel the art of balancing passion and deadline-driven creativity with Ritika. She opens up about overcoming creative blocks and the nuances of the fashion design process, from handling social media influences to embracing the notion that imitation is a form of flattery. Additionally, we delve into the crucial topic of self-care for entrepreneurs, highlighting how small, regular breaks can fuel long-term success and personal well-being. Ritika's candid reflections on her journey offer a window into the life of a creative entrepreneur, making this episode a must-listen for aspiring designers and anyone interested in the fashion world.

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What if the stories of your childhood held the key to preserving your cultural heritage? Join us for a captivating conversation with Maroof Umar, a graphic designer turned storyteller, who embarks on a mission to safeguard the soft heritage of Lucknow. His narrative weaves through the vibrant streets of his hometown, fueled by family tales and community experiences that shaped his world. Inspired by the introspection brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, Maroof has created a visual archive to connect future generations with the nostalgic traditions of his past, blending old-world charm with modern technology.

Balancing the tightrope of creativity and platform constraints, we delve into the joy and challenges of content creation. Discover how genuine intent and positive energy can lead to unexpected, affirmative feedback. We explore the essence of creative expression as a source of personal joy and the importance of maintaining authenticity despite logistical hurdles. The episode also highlights the power of collaboration, where each partnership breathes fresh energy and opens new avenues for growth in the creative journey.

As we navigate the complexities of generational views and male mental health, this episode sheds light on evolving societal norms. With insights from a psychologist, we discuss the evolving challenges faced by Gen Z in a tech-driven world and stress the importance of mindful social media use. Our conversation advocates for emotional freedom, equally for men, encouraging a supportive environment where feelings can be openly expressed. 

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Step into the dynamic realm where physical performance meets mental resilience. Join me as we welcome Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, a trailblazer in athlete care, who shares his inspiring journey from a family of professionals to becoming a pivotal figure in the world of elite sports. Together, we explore the unique challenges of managing the toll of age on high-performing athletes and the immense pressure faced by experts working behind the scenes at global events like the Olympics.

Discover powerful stories of perseverance and grit, as we spotlight athletes who have defied the odds to return to the top of their game. Learn how cricketer Rishabh Pant staged a remarkable comeback after a life-altering accident and how badminton star HS Prannoy triumphed over chikungunya just in time for the Olympics. These stories reveal the unyielding determination and inner strength that define champions.

Behind every athlete’s success are unsung heroes whose relentless dedication keeps them at their best. Our conversation highlights the incredible teamwork, expertise, and personalized strategies that enable athletes to shine. We delve into the art of crafting guidance that aligns with each athlete’s unique personality, striking the perfect balance between technical precision and emotional connection.

As we conclude, we celebrate the extraordinary commitment required to elevate every aspect of an athlete’s journey, leaving listeners with a profound appreciation for those who play a vital role in these remarkable achievements.

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What drives a musician to greatness? Join us as we sit down with the sensational Sireesha Bhagavatula, whose melodious hits "Ghode Pe Savar" and "Phero Na Najar Se Najariya" have won hearts nationwide. Growing up in a family steeped in artistic talent, Sireesha began her musical journey at the tender age of three and a half. She offers an intimate look at her upbringing, filled with inspiration from legendary artists like Lata Mangeshkar and Shreya Ghoshal. Discover how Sireesha’s philosophy of focusing on her craft over societal expectations has paved her path to success and artistic freedom.

Feel the emotional rollercoaster of the music industry through Sireesha’s eyes. From the thrill of live performances to the stress of constant travel, she candidly shares the highs and lows that come with being an artist. Listen to touching personal anecdotes, including a particularly emotional recording session for "Phero na Najaria" that moved her to tears.

In our final segment, we explore the influence of social media on mental health and how Sireesha maintains a balanced online presence. With insights into her ‘mental first aid box,’ filled with family memories and expressions of gratitude, she reveals how she stays grounded and mentally resilient. Embrace the Joy of Missing Out (JOMO) and learn from Sireesha’s lessons in humility and gratitude. The episode culminates with a live rendition from her movie soundtrack, leaving you inspired and enchanted by her incredible talent and wisdom.

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A conversation that doesn’t cease to inspire.

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Discover the nuanced world of neurology and psychology with Dr. Sudhir Kothari, one of India's leading neurologists. What sparked his journey into neurology? A book recommendation, interestingly enough. In this episode, Dr. Kothari shares his expertise on diagnosing dizziness—a term that can mean a lot of different things to different people—and the analytical rigor required to differentiate between conditions like benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) and vestibular migraines. Through compelling anecdotes and case studies, including one where excessive screen time was the root cause of dizziness, we uncover the critical role of effective communication and patient history in diagnosis and treatment.

Dive deeper into the mental health challenges faced by medical professionals. Dr. Kothari sheds light on how doctors often avoid seeking help for psychological issues, opting instead for activities like playing chess or multitasking. Discussing the financial and professional pressures, particularly on younger doctors, Dr. Kothari compares the strengths and weaknesses of the Indian medical system to that of the USA. This episode also clarifies the different types of vertigo, including Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD), and distinguishes between vertigo, dizziness, and imbalance, offering listeners a clearer understanding of these often misunderstood conditions.

We then talk about the enriching experience of co-authoring a book with Dr. Kothari. We delve into the collaboration process, the balancing act of agreements and disagreements, and the continuous learning journey it fosters. We conclude with a glimpse into future episodes, specifically mentioning an upcoming focus on headaches.  Don't miss this insightful episode on neurology, psychology eand the complexities of diagnosing and treating dizziness.

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Discover the transformative power of holistic education with our esteemed guest, Mr. Carlyle McFarland—a veteran educationist with over four decades of experience. Get an insider's view of his incredible journey from the classrooms of postgraduate colleges to the helm of La Martiniere, Lucknow. Mr McFarland's passionate critique of the current academic system's fixation on marks and his unwavering belief in nurturing every facet of a child's development are both enlightening and inspiring. We'll explore how historically, institutions like La Martiniere have successfully integrated a variety of activities, from sports to meditation, to cultivate well-rounded individuals.

We confront the pressing issues plaguing today's education system, notably the shrinking attention spans of the current generation. Our conversation with Mr. McFarland reveals the urgent need for a new mindfulness that resonates with today's fast-paced world. We also delve into the evolving relationship between parents and educational institutions, stressing the importance of trust and collaboration. Mr McFarland shares his views on how schools play a crucial role in shaping a child's future and the necessity of supporting teachers with better pay and manageable workloads to ensure they can perform their roles effectively.

We discuss the critical need for early mental health intervention and the role teachers and administrators must play in recognizing and addressing negative behaviors. The importance of nurturing happy memories and integrating mental health programs within schools is also highlighted. Join us for a candid conversation that underscores the dynamic nature of education and the essential need for continuous adaptation and improvement.

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What drives a fashion designer to successfully blend art and fashion into confidence-boosting creations? Join us on Detangle as we uncover the compelling journey of Shahin Mannan, a visionary who has transformed the fashion landscape with her emotionally resonant designs. Shahin opens up about her intrinsic creative streak and her desire to exist as an artist, which led her to launch three dedicated stores in major Indian cities. Her brand's unique blend of fun, quirkiness, and luxury is a testament to her ability to understand consumer desires for distinctive fashion. Through her eyes, we explore how visual stimuli, rather than literature, fuel her imagination and narrate stories that cater to the soulful traveler, enriching the wearer's experience on multiple levels.

In a heartfelt chapter, Shahin recounts the transformative moment of opening her flagship store in Delhi while simultaneously welcoming her daughter into the world. She advises her younger self on the importance of not seeking validation and learning to say no. By sharing her mood-driven creative process and her connection to nature, Shahin offers a unique perspective on overcoming creative blocks. We also delve into gender dynamics within the fashion industry, where Shahin's efforts to create an equitable work environment shine through her commitment to ensuring respect and equality for women in her executive staff. Wrapping up, we discuss how her personal touch translates into her designs, making a lasting impact on her audience and paving the way for future brand growth. This episode is a must-listen for anyone fascinated by the fusion of art, fashion, and heartfelt creativity.

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