Raw Talks With Vamshi Kurapati - Telugu Business Podcast

In this episode of Raw Talks, we dive deep into the remarkable journey of Prasad Chalavadi, the visionary behind Kalamandir. Known for transforming the saree retail industry, Mr. Chalavadi shares his story, starting from his earliest days as an entrepreneur in a pre-digital world. Long before the internet and modern resources, he developed a passion for sarees, gathering insights and developing a vision from the ground up. His journey took shape as he left a promising stockbroking career in Dubai to pursue his dream back in India, a path marked by resilience and self-belief. Through stories of personal sacrifice and immense dedication, Mr. Chalavadi’s narrative highlights the unique challenges and moments that defined Kalamandir’s rise.

A key theme throughout this episode is Mr. Chalavadi’s drive to succeed without the backing of a prominent family name. He recounts the early days of starting Kalamandir alongside friends from Vijayawada, eventually branching out independently and launching his first showroom in Ameerpet with a modest team of 50 employees. His unique vision went beyond selling sarees; he understood that a powerful business must rely on more than just numbers—it needed a “science” of connecting with customers. This insight inspired Kalamandir to become the first Indian fashion retail brand to operate on a fully indigenous software platform. Valued at 8 crore, this software gave Kalamandir a cutting-edge advantage, analyzing customer preferences and driving each decision. For Mr. Chalavadi, innovation was more than just technology; it was a tool to build connections and deliver unforgettable customer experiences.

A significant part of Kalamandir’s appeal lies in its ability to evoke tradition and cultural pride. Mr. Chalavadi shares his passion for bringing India’s heritage to life in each showroom. He describes how the store architecture and decor—including floor seating, temple-inspired interiors, and the presence of a divine idol—help create a sense of devotion and pride among customers. This experience is not just about shopping for sarees; it’s about immersing in a cultural ritual. It’s clear that for Mr. Chalavadi, business isn’t just about selling; it’s about creating spaces that allow customers to connect with their roots.

Mr. Chalavadi’s commitment to culture is also evident in his views on sarees and their role in Indian society. He reflects on the emotional value sarees hold for Indian women, emphasizing that each saree is more than a garment—it’s a piece of heritage. Despite evolving fashion trends, he sees sarees as central to India’s identity and is passionate about keeping this tradition alive for future generations. His perspective offers a refreshing take on how heritage and modern retail can coexist, fostering pride in India’s sartorial legacy.

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Mr. Chalavadi provides practical advice for entering the saree business with limited capital. He outlines a roadmap for building a brand within a competitive industry, stressing patience, strategic investment, and a deep understanding of market dynamics. This advice resonates beyond business; it’s a lesson in resilience and adapting to changing circumstances.

Throughout the episode, Mr. Chalavadi reveals a personal side, sharing humorous and sentimental anecdotes about family, relationships, and cultural identity. With moments of laughter and reflection, he describes his family as his strength, providing a candid glimpse into the man behind the business. Whether recalling his wife’s first saree purchase or the lighter moments of family life, these stories bring warmth and relatability to his inspiring journey.

This episode is more than a business story—it’s an inspiring tale of preserving culture, embracing innovation, and building a legacy that redefines India’s relationship with its heritage.

In this Telugu podcast, we sit down with Ambica Krishna garu, the driving force behind the legacy of Ambica Agarbatti, for an intimate look into his life’s journey, the evolution of his family business, and his multifaceted roles in public life. Known for his deep-rooted faith and savvy business acumen, Krishna garu takes us through the inspiring story of how Ambica Agarbatti grew from humble beginnings into a symbol of trust and devotion for millions.

Starting with the brand’s foundation in the late 1960s, Krishna garu reflects on the legacy his father built. Driven by the motto "Bhagavanthundiki Bhakti Ki," which translates to "Devotion to God," Ambica Agarbatti set out to embody purity and spirituality in every product.

Running a family business of this scale comes with its own set of challenges, and Krishna garu shares the unique dynamics of managing a large joint family business that spans across 30 family members and employs over 2,500 people. He reveals how he maintains a close bond with long-term employees, some of whom have worked with Ambica Agarbatti for more than 15 years, fostering a culture that intertwines family values with corporate principles. Krishna garu firmly believes that faith and fate play integral roles in the journey of Ambica, a sentiment that he holds deeply as he continues his father’s legacy.

Despite a growing wave of atheism and a societal shift away from traditional practices, Krishna garu reflects on how Ambica Agarbatti has adapted. He observes that people, particularly the younger generation, no longer follow the traditional practice of visiting temples; instead, their approach to spirituality has transformed. While some see this shift as a challenge, Krishna garu views it as an opportunity to preserve and present the spiritual values embedded in Ambica Agarbatti’s products to a new audience.

The marketing legacy of Ambica Agarbatti is as unique as its inception. Krishna garu shares memories of how his father began with Doordarshan ads and created taglines like "Ammakam Ante Nammakam" (Faith Means Trust), which resonated deeply with the Indian audience. One quirky story involves a van Krishna garu used for advertising, which locals mistook for a cigarette van, adding to the product’s unique appeal. He recounts the days when their humble van roamed the streets, drawing in curious onlookers and slowly building brand recognition one stop at a time.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a traditionalist at heart, or simply interested in the spirit behind Ambica Agarbatti, this conversation is filled with insights and inspiration.

In this telugu podcast with Shobu Garu, the mastermind behind *Baahubali* and co-founder of Arka Media, we dive deep into the complex world of TV serials, movie production, and the rise of OTT platforms. Drawing from his vast experience, Shobu Garu offers invaluable lessons on understanding audience behavior, managing production challenges, and making strategic investments. This conversation unveils the realities of working in the entertainment industry while also providing a glimpse into the nuances of startup investments.

Shobu Garu begins by shedding light on the TV serial industry, explaining how producers capture and retain audience interest. He elaborates on how they monitor market trends, determine which characters are resonating with viewers, and adjust scripts based on TRP (Television Rating Points). He mentions that TRP, tracked by multinational agencies, is crucial for channels to assess a show’s success. While TV remains a passive medium, Shobu Garu explores the possibility of responsive, interactive shows becoming popular in the future, though he notes that audiences are still comfortable with conventional passive storytelling for now.

The conversation takes a deeper dive into the making of *Baahubali*. Shobu Garu recalls how the film initially received negative reviews on the first day, but the perception gradually shifted as more people watched it. He explains that fan-based audiences come with specific expectations, which can lead to early criticism. However, the involvement of Karan Johar in promoting *Baahubali* across North India played a pivotal role in establishing its pan-India appeal. Reflecting on a past project, *Eega*, Shobu Garu points out that while it struggled in Hindi theaters, it performed exceptionally well on TV, showing how different platforms affect audience reception.

Budget management is another key aspect that Shobu Garu touches upon. With over 5,000 people working on the *Baahubali* crew, controlling costs was a daunting task. Despite the challenges, the team decided to increase the budget for the sequel to meet public expectations. Shobu Garu emphasizes that a bold vision sometimes requires financial flexibility. He also explains how the team resolved disagreements over budget decisions, ensuring the creative vision remained intact.

The discussion then shifts to the complexities of large-scale movie releases. Releasing *Baahubali* across 8,000 screens was a groundbreaking move, and Shobu Garu provides insights into the logistics involved, including managing regional taxes and distribution strategies. He explains how postponing the sequel’s release was a strategic decision that allowed the hype to build, ultimately contributing to the film’s massive success.

Beyond filmmaking, Shobu Garu delves into his investment strategies. He shares his approach to startup investments, explaining that he evaluates businesses across different stages—seed funding, pre-evaluation, and post-launch. Media-based startups, he believes, hold significant potential, and if given ₹1 crore, Shobu Garu mentions he would likely invest in a media venture. He also discusses the qualities he looks for in founders, valuing passion, adaptability, and long-term commitment over age or experience.

Towards the end of the conversation, Shobu Garu offers practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. He cautions against blindly following trends without understanding the depth of a business. Success, he says, requires consistency, persistence, and a genuine passion for the craft. Shobu Garu warns that constantly shifting focus can be a red flag, and instead, one should work steadily toward achieving well-defined goals.

Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, a media enthusiast, or someone interested in startups, Shobu Garu’s insights offer practical knowledge and inspiration.

Dr. A. Gurava Reddy on Bone Health, Joint Replacements & Medical Ethics | Modern Healthcare Podcast

This Spotify-exclusive Telugu podcast episode features Dr. A. Gurava Reddy, a renowned orthopedic surgeon and CEO of Sunshine Hospitals, specializing in knee and hip replacements. Dr. Reddy provides expert insights into bone health, joint care, and the realities of modern healthcare, touching on topics like medical ethics, patient care, posture correction, and the impact of lifestyle choices on health.

Hospitals are often depicted negatively in the media—like in Tagore featuring Chiranjeevi—leading to mistrust between patients and doctors. Dr. Reddy sheds light on how these portrayals affect public perception, the pressures doctors face, and how hospitals like Sunshine balance financial goals with quality patient care.

What You’ll Learn from this Podcast Episode

1. Bone Health & Osteoporosis Prevention

2. Joint Replacements & Healthcare Management

3. Posture & Prolonged Sitting: A Silent Epidemic

4. Sciatica & Pregnancy Pain Management

5. Floor vs. Mattress: Which is Better for Your Spine?

In this telugu podcast episode, we sit down with Dr. A. Gurava Reddy, the celebrated orthopedic surgeon and CEO of Sunshine Hospitals, for an in-depth conversation about modern healthcare, bone health, medical ethics, and personal life experiences. Dr. Reddy, known for his expertise in joint replacements and healthcare management, sheds light on the realities of being a doctor in today’s world. With hospitals often depicted negatively in films, such as in the movie Tagore starring Chiranjeevi, Dr. Reddy offers his perspective on how such portrayals influence public perception and the challenges doctors face in gaining patients’ trust.

We also discuss whether hospitals like Sunshine have specific targets and how the healthcare system balances financial goals with quality patient care. Dr. Reddy addresses pressing topics like how “sitting is the new smoking,” explaining the dangers of prolonged sitting and improper posture. He shares practical tips on choosing the right pillow and chair to maintain a healthy posture. The conversation takes an interesting turn as we explore whether it’s better to sleep on a mattress or directly on the floor, and the pros and cons of each option.

The episode offers valuable insights into sciatica and its impact, with Dr. Reddy detailing how severe back pain during pregnancy can be managed. He talks about the effects of the “relaxin hormone” on women’s bodies during pregnancy and suggests ways to provide relief for expecting mothers. Another major topic we touch upon is the harmful impact of smoking on bone health, as Dr. Reddy explains how smoking, soda consumption, and excessive caffeine intake contribute to osteoporosis by making bones brittle. He emphasizes the importance of weight-bearing exercises and a diet rich in cheese, fish, nuts, mushrooms, fortified cereals, and tofu to maintain healthy bones.

We further delve into the credibility of PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections for knee pain. Are these treatments a genuine breakthrough or just another scam? Dr. Reddy offers his candid opinion on PRP and similar treatments, cautioning viewers about the deceptive practices of some doctors who exploit vulnerable patients. Our discussion also covers the controversial topic of high heels, evaluating whether they are detrimental to long-term health and how often they can be worn without adverse effects.

The conversation highlights the challenges of finding reliable doctors in today’s digital age, where misinformation is rampant on social media. Dr. Reddy reflects on why India lacks a robust system to rate doctors like the US, and he discusses the ethical concerns around fake doctors performing unnecessary surgeries on rural patients to benefit from Arogya Shree funds. He also shares his thoughts on medical negligence and explains the difference between complications and malpractice, providing insight into how insurance and consumer forums help protect both doctors and patients.

Dr. Reddy addresses the rising issue of lower back pain among teenagers, attributing it to a lack of playgrounds, ventilation, and physical exercise in schools. We discuss his perspective on trauma management, the importance of hip replacements, and the increased frequency of joint pain post-COVID, which has puzzled both doctors and patients.

On a personal note, Dr. Reddy opens up about his work with the Sarvejana Foundation and the STOP initiative for accident prevention. He shares how these social causes are funded and how he manages to balance his time between his professional and philanthropic work. The conversation also touches on the physical toll of bad roads, which Dr. Reddy believes contribute significantly to back and joint pain.

This podcast provides a holistic view of healthcare, medical ethics, and personal growth. Dr. Gurava Reddy’s candid answers and practical advice on topics like bone health, posture, medical scams, and mental wellness offer invaluable takeaways.

In this powerful and historically rich podcast episode, we dive deep into the untold stories of Hyderabad’s past, featuring the iconic Pasham Yadagiri Sir. Known for his extensive knowledge of the region’s history and his fearless critiques of modern society, Yadagiri Sir sheds light on many hidden aspects of Hyderabad, the Nizams, and their rule.

We begin by revisiting the famous “Bandi Venaka Bandi” song, which leads us into a detailed discussion about Hyderabad's Nizam era, particularly what transpired on September 17th. This was a turning point for many, especially for farmers and certain communities like the Brahmins and Padmashalis, who faced brutal killings. Yadagiri Sir unpacks the complexities of the British taxation system and how the Nizams acted as allies to the British crown. He touches on significant events such as the hanging of 1,000 Gonds in Nirmal and emphasizes the need for a 'mosaic vision' to truly understand the British rule in India.

We explore how the Nizams first came to power in India and whether there is any confusion between the Nizam army and the notorious Razakars. Yadagiri Sir breaks down the difference between the regular and irregular armies, drawing parallels to contemporary cases like Disha and Nayeem, showing the long-lasting impact of these historical systems on today’s society. We discuss infamous cases such as Belle Lalitha’s death and the mysterious ways in which these deaths are often brushed under the rug. Yadagiri Sir raises concerns over critical thought in journalism and why cases like Nayeem’s death were never properly filed.

The conversation also takes a turn towards Operation Polo, the military action that led to Hyderabad's annexation into India. Yadagiri Sir speaks passionately about the massacre that occurred afterward, often referred to as the second Jallianwala Bagh, and the forgotten figures like Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Chaakali Ellamma who played crucial roles during this period. He shares insights into the once-wealthy regions of Hyderabad, such as Vagul and Adilabad, which were richer than Kashmir. Yadagiri Sir also discusses how the oppressive 'Dhora' taxation system and violent events like the Puligiri massacre shaped Telangana’s fight for survival.

The podcast delves into intriguing questions about Belle Lalitha’s death and its connection to Nayeem, exploring the larger political context that led to her tragic end. From the closure of all CBM factories, including Asia’s largest sugar factory, to the Charminar cigarette industry, Yadagiri Sir points out how these economic collapses affected common people. He argues that certain political parties, like TRS, TDP, and BJP, have ultimately put an end to the vision of Graama Swaraj, leaving us in a cryptocracy rather than a democracy.

Moving on to caste dynamics, Yadagiri Sir explains the historical origin of caste titles like Reddy and Choudary, clarifying that these were originally professions rather than social hierarchies. In the case of Reddys, they were land contractors, while Choudary referred to tax collectors. With his trademark candor, Yadagiri Sir also delves into human evolution and how the rise of industrial economies disrupted natural societal progress.

With the rise of social media, Yadagiri Sir ponders whether YouTube could become the next mainstream platform for journalism. Citing the example of Dhruv Rathee, who has reportedly influenced up to 20% of voters, he discusses how mobile phones have become the new 'AK47s' in the hands of the people, reshaping political discourse and the flow of information.

Finally, Yadagiri Sir shares his thoughts on the Emergency of June 25th, 1975, revealing the harsh conditions of the time, including mass sterilization and the draconian actions of Sanjay Gandhi. In a thought-provoking discussion, he touches on the long-term changes to India's Constitution and the rise of systems like HYDRA that continue to influence the nation today.

In this podcast episode, we explore the fascinating and often misunderstood world of psychiatry, mental health, and brain function, with our esteemed guest, Dr. Virinchi Sharma, a renowned psychiatrist and Director of Manasa Psychiatric Hospital in Hyderabad. Dr. Sharma’s extensive experience as a consultant psychiatrist at institutions like BITS Pilani and Sleep Therapeutics, combined with his role as an Associate Professor and TEDx speaker, allows him to bring a wealth of knowledge to this conversation. With a background that includes speaking at over 1,000 television debates and delivering keynote addresses at prestigious conferences, Dr. Sharma is exceptionally equipped to guide us through some of the most pressing mental health issues of our time.

We begin by delving into the world of psychiatric hospitals, a subject that often sparks curiosity but is widely misunderstood. Dr. Sharma explains the key differences between outpatient and inpatient psychiatric care. Outpatient services, he notes, provide therapeutic consultation and treatment without requiring a patient to stay overnight, whereas inpatient facilities offer more intensive, 24-hour care for individuals needing close monitoring and treatment. He emphasizes the need for mental health treatment to be normalized and explains when inpatient care is necessary for conditions like severe depression, schizophrenia, or when someone is at risk of self-harm.

The conversation then moves into the importance of language in psychiatry. Dr. Sharma highlights how the words used during consultations can either create a safe, supportive environment or alienate a patient. He talks about the importance of being mindful, avoiding terms that may seem judgmental or stigmatizing, and the role that compassionate communication plays in mental health care. He also touches on a common question—whether everyone needs a psychologist. According to Dr. Sharma, while not everyone requires continuous psychological care, we could all benefit from a mental health check-up, just like we do with physical health. He stresses the importance of seeing mental health support as preventive care rather than a last resort.

One of the most striking parts of our discussion revolves around technology addiction, a modern-day epidemic. Dr. Sharma provides insights into why so many people are glued to their phones and screens, describing it as a symptom of a deeper neurological issue. He explains how the human brain, particularly the "monkey brain" that deals with impulse control, struggles to adapt to the overwhelming stimuli of today’s digital world. He references studies that suggest over-reliance on gadgets may even be shrinking certain parts of our brains, particularly those responsible for attention and impulse regulation.

This leads to an exploration of our increasing need for dopamine—our brain’s reward chemical. Dr. Sharma breaks down why we’re constantly seeking multiple sources of stimulation, such as binge-watching shows while scrolling through social media. He explains how our dopamine system, designed to reward healthy behaviors, is being hijacked by fast-paced digital experiences, leading to an addiction-like cycle of craving and dissatisfaction. A relatable example is given through Dr. Sharma’s analysis of VK’s experience, where working non-stop for 15 days led to extreme boredom on a rest day. This, according to Dr. Sharma, can be attributed to excessive dopamine spikes that make periods of downtime feel unfulfilling.

Wrapping up the episode, Dr. Sharma leaves us with valuable takeaways on how to protect our brains, manage our mental health, and stay resilient in the face of modern-day challenges. From stress management to understanding how dopamine shapes our behavior, this podcast is a comprehensive exploration of the mind, brought to life by the expertise and wisdom of Dr. Virinchi Sharma.

In this episode, we are joined by Mr. K.R. Nagarajan, the visionary Culturepreneur and Founder & Chairman of the Ramraj Group of Companies, whose passion for tradition and innovation has redefined Indian ethnic wear on a global scale. From his humble beginnings in Tirupur, Tamil Nadu, Mr. Nagarajan’s relentless pursuit of excellence has transformed Ramraj Cotton into a cultural symbol of pride and quality, known particularly for elevating the dhoti to iconic status.

The podcast delves deep into Mr. Nagarajan’s journey, starting from the foundation of Ramraj Cotton in 1983, with the mission to offer high-quality men's ethnic wear to South India. What began as a small store has now grown into an empire of over 300 outlets worldwide, supporting more than 50,000 weavers and families. His efforts have not only preserved traditional Indian attire but also infused it with modern conveniences, making it relevant and appealing to today's youth. Through innovative branding, including partnerships with celebrities like Venkatesh and Shreyas Iyer, Mr. Nagarajan has made Ramraj synonymous with style, tradition, and quality.

One of the standout moments in Mr. Nagarajan’s story is how he turned an instance of being denied entry to a five-star hotel because of his traditional attire into a defining moment for Ramraj. This experience inspired him to promote the dhoti with a renewed focus on pride and dignity, further establishing Ramraj Cotton’s identity in the market. His vision for the brand was never just about selling clothes but about building a cultural movement that honors Indian heritage while embracing modernity.

As Mr. Nagarajan shares in this conversation, his journey is also a story of passion and perseverance. From running a small store to creating a network of over 300 outlets across the globe, his leadership has turned Ramraj into a global phenomenon. His commitment to preserving traditional weaving techniques, providing economic opportunities for weavers, and championing social causes like education and environmental conservation exemplifies his belief in holistic community development.

In this episode, you’ll learn about:

But it’s not just business that drives Mr. Nagarajan. His dedication to empowering 50,000+ weavers and supporting traditional craftsmen is a testament to his belief in economic empowerment and social responsibility. His efforts go beyond the fabric of Ramraj, as he advocates for education, supports yoga, and even founded the TENEERA initiative, which helps coconut farmers thrive.

Mr. Nagarajan also reaches communities through Venmai, a monthly magazine that touches over 18,000 subscribers with stories of culture, inspiration, and self-betterment. His influence extends beyond fashion into fostering connections, uplifting communities, and advocating for sustainable living.

The conversation with Mr. K.R. Nagarajan is a masterclass in entrepreneurship, leadership, and cultural preservation. He offers invaluable lessons on the importance of staying grounded in tradition while embracing change and innovation.

For anyone looking for inspiration or practical business insights, this episode is a must-watch. Mr. Nagarajan’s journey reminds us that true success comes from passion, perseverance, and a deep commitment to values. Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur, a business leader, or simply someone interested in stories of cultural pride, this podcast will leave you feeling inspired and motivated to pursue your dreams.

In this episode of Raw Talks, we dive deep into the fascinating journey of Rohit Chennamaneni, the co-founder and CEO of Darwinbox, a billion-dollar company transforming the way businesses manage their human resources. Rohit’s path to success is nothing short of inspiring. It’s a story that begins with his time at McKinsey, where he discovered the importance of surrounding yourself with the best talent. McKinsey’s secret to producing so many successful entrepreneurs like Rohit? They only hire the best, those who aren’t just academically excellent but also bring unique perspectives beyond textbooks. According to Rohit, while McKinsey teaches you to break down complex problems into simple, actionable steps, the art of influencing or convincing people wasn’t something learned in training—it came from his experiences outside the firm.

Rohit opens up about the origins of Darwinbox, how the HR function in India is fundamentally different from the rest of the world, and why this disparity led him and his co-founders to create a tool that caters specifically to these unique needs. His perspective on whether an HR tool is necessary is clear: it’s a must in today’s business environment. But it wasn’t always easy. He shares the challenges of closing their first sale, the internal discussions, the late nights, and the pressure of competition. Yet, in those early stages, the market was less crowded, which allowed Darwinbox to establish itself as a frontrunner in HR tech.

A key part of Darwinbox’s culture, Rohit says, is deeply influenced by his background in sports. He believes that sports teach you there will always be someone better than you, and this mindset drives a culture of constant improvement and resilience within the company. The win-lose strategy from the sports field translates well into business, where each failure is an opportunity to learn, grow, and refine your approach. Rohit’s leadership has taken Darwinbox to over 12 countries, a journey that is far from over. But what about the challenges of scaling globally? Rohit discusses the complexities of expanding internationally, the IPO landscape in India, and how Darwinbox is leveraging AI in product development to stay ahead of the curve.

One of the most interesting parts of our conversation is Rohit’s take on the future of work. He talks about the current state of hiring and firing in organizations and offers advice to young professionals on which sectors they should consider as they plan their careers. Drawing from his extensive experience, Rohit sheds light on the shifting dynamics in the job market and how businesses are navigating the challenges of cost-cutting while still trying to innovate.

In a candid moment, Rohit reflects on how not knowing everything has actually been a huge advantage. He believes that having too much information can sometimes make you overly cautious, preventing you from taking the necessary risks to achieve success. This philosophy ties back to his love for the Ramayana and Mahabharata, which, according to him, offer valuable lessons on embracing the grey areas in life and business.

Sales, often seen as a mundane or downgraded job, is another topic Rohit is passionate about. He believes sales is one of the most critical functions in any business and should be seen as a valuable career path. In his own words, it’s time we reframe how we think about sales—it’s not just about door-to-door selling, but about relationship-building and creating value.

The episode wraps up with a look at the global vision for Darwinbox. Rohit is determined to build not just a successful company, but a world-class brand that puts India on the global map. His love for Hyderabad and commitment to creating something meaningful from India for the world is a testament to his passion and dedication.

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