South Central

In this episode on South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. They are joined by The Deccan Herald’s Assistant Editor Sivapriyan and journalist and translator Kavitha Muralidharan. In the second segment of the episode, the hosts discuss the verdict in the Sathankulam police station case in which Bennix and Jayaraj were tortured to death. A court in Madurai gave the death penalty to nine police officers, and the hosts go into the details of the verdict. They are joined by Anisha Sheth, TNM’s Karnataka Bureau Chief.The 2026 reset: Assam to Puducherry Election Fund: https://pages.razorpay.com/zTQadhQFFTOnce a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well. You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Audio Timecodes 00:00:00 - Introductions 00:02:25 - Headlines 00:09:17 - Tamil Nadu Elections00:46:56 - Bennix-Jayaraj Case01:03:46 - RecommendationsCheck out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s South Central, Dhanya Rajendran, Anisha Sheth, and cartoonist Rachita Taneja discuss the Union government’s proposed amendments to the IT law and what they mean for online speech. Why is the government bringing in these changes, and how will they impact people sharing news and opinions online?In the second part, guests from Kerala discuss the upcoming Assembly elections. Environmentalist Sridhar Radhakrishnan says that none of the major parties are prioritising environmental concerns, pointing to a decade of aggressive infrastructure development that ignores the state’s ecological fragility.The 2026 reset: Assam to Puducherry Election Fund: https://pages.razorpay.com/zTQadhQFFTOnce a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well. You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Audio Timecodes00:00:00 - Introductions00:02:29 - Headlines00:11:23 - New IT Rules00:39:32 - Kerala Elections01:20:21 - RecommendationsCheck out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Ajay R & Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week South Central looks at Kerala’s elections and the transgender amendment law. Hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna are joined by MG Radhakrishnan, Sreejan Balakrishnan, and TNM’s Haritha John to unpack why the UDF may have a slight edge but no clear wave against Pinarayi Vijayan. In the second segment, Azeefa Fatima and Lakshmi Priya discuss the trans bill’s fallout, with reports of fear, threats, and uncertainty within the community.The 2026 reset: Assam to Puducherry Election Fund: https://pages.razorpay.com/zTQadhQFFTOnce a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well. You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Audio Timecodes00:00:00 - Introductions00:02:22 - Headlines00:09:27 - Kerala Elections00:51:39 - Trans Bill Horror01:11:57 - RecommendationsCheck out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the Transgender Persons Amendment Bill 2026, which has triggered protests across the country. They are joined by advocate Arvind Narrain of the Alternative Law Forum, who was part of the panel of lawyers who fought for IPC 377 to be struck down. Joining in is also Rumi Harish, a musician and a queer, trans, masculine and social justice activist. In the second part of the episode, the hosts discuss the controversy over the lyrics of the new song from the movie KD: The Devil, and the problematic gaze of ‘item songs’. They are joined by TNM senior reporter Shivani Kava and Associate Editor Sukanya Shaji.Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well. You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Audio Timecodes00:00:00 - Introductions 00:02:21 - Headlines 00:11:20 - Trans Bill 202600:43:16 - KD Song Lyrics 01:13:56 - RecommendationsCheck out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali, written by Sukanya Shaji.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the first segment of this week’s South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna discuss the LPG crisis and what that could mean for India going forward. They are joined by energy journalist and policy expert Shreya Jai, and climate journalist and researcher Aruna Chandrasekhar. In the second segment, the hosts discuss the recent no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and the one anticipated against Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. They are joined by journalist Sravasti Dasgupta, senior political correspondent at The Wire.Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well. You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Audio Timecodes 00:00:00 - Introduction00:03:22 - Headlines 00:13:57- LPG Fears00:51:05-CEC Impeachment 1:14:11 - RecommendationsBecome a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali, written by Sukanya Shaji. Check out the recommendations and references from this episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the first segment of this week’s South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna speak to senior gynaecologist Dr Thankam Subramonian, who recently approached the Karnataka HC to altruistically donate a kidney after being denied permission by a medical committee.In the second segment, the hosts delve into the ongoing military conflict between Iran, Israel and the USA. They are joined by Aditya Ramanathan, a Research Fellow with the Takshashila Institution, where he heads the Advanced Military Technologies Programme, and Nirmal Abraham, a journalist who specialises in international politics, especially matters of the USA.Check out the recommendations: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1SuGm5-JwvRc4SCazAtW9956IKfsy3RrTJOFMsvbhmGE/edit?gid=0#gid=0Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions, and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Megha  Mukundan, edited by Jaseem Ali, written by Sukanya Shaji.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the Karnataka government’s plan to ban teenagers from using mobile phones. They are joined by policy researcher Tara Krishnaswamy, child psychologist Sama Adil, and Adhira S Magesh, a teenager who is a Karate black belt holder and enthusiastic baker. In the second part of the discussion, the hosts delve into the upcoming film The Kerala Story 2 and its polarising politics. They are joined by professor, writer, and activist NP Ashley.Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well. You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Audio Timecodes 00:00:00 - Introduction00:01:15 - Headlines 00:09:32- Mobile Ban 00:43:49 - Kerala Story 21:19:57 - RecommendationsBecome a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali, written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The News Minute turns 12 on February 21, and to commemorate, in this week’s South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna bring together the old and new team of TNM. The group goes over how TNM started– a one-room venture with an intern and one reporter, and traces how it grew into a steadfast newsroom with several journalists, focusing on caste, gender, power, and culture.Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well. You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali, written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna discuss the controversy over former Army Chief General MM Naravane's unpublished memoir, Four Stars of Destiny, and the political storm it has stirred in the Parliament. They are joined by senior journalist and founding editor of The Wire, MK Venu, and Caravan magazine’s Consulting Editor, Sushant Singh, who wrote about the book.Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well. Audio Timecodes 00:00:00 - Introduction00:02:19 - Headlines 00:13:00- Naravane’s memoir00:56:47 - Free Speech 1:04:31 - RecommendationsYou can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali, written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the first session, hosts Pooja Prasanna and Anisha Sheth discuss the India-US trade deal and the recently announced reduction in tariffs. They are joined by senior journalists Smita Sharma and TK Arun. In the second part of the discussion, the hosts delve into the ban on student elections in Karnataka and the Congress government’s proposal to bring it back. They are joined by Professor Muralidhar PS of the Bangalore University, President of the Teacher’s union.Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well. Audio Timecodes 00:00:00 - Introduction00:04:26 - Headlines 00:16:40- India-US Tariff1:05:32 - Campus Politics Returns?1:29:22 - Recommendations You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali, written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the new UGC equity regulations and the protests around them. They are joined by TNM’s Executive Editor Sudipto Mondal and rights lawyer Mridula Vanangamudi. Then they look at the fast-paced political negotiations and developments in Kerala, headed for Assembly polls soon. The hosts are joined by Damodar Prasad, a senior political analyst based in Kerala.Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well. Audio Timecodes 00:02:47: Headlines 00:09:36 - UGC Rules 00:50:37 - Kerala Politics 1:20:52 - RecommendationsYou can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali, written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna discuss the organised hate campaigns against film reviewers in the country. The discussion spans themes including the communal profiling of actors and reviewers and delves into whether fan culture catalyses the polarisation of films based on nationalism, religion, and gender politics. Joining the hosts are acclaimed film critics Anna MM Vetticad and Sucharita Tyagi.Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introduction 00:01:46 - Headlines 00:14:34- Film Review Backlash01:23:27-  RecommendationsYou can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali, written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the first session of the episode, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna discuss the intersection of consent, agency and institutional power in sexual assault cases, like in the cases of Kerala MLA Rahul Mamkootathi, acquitted Bishop Franco Mulakkal, ex-BJP MLA Kuldeep Sengar and more. The hosts are joined by senior journalist Nidhi Suresh, TNM Associate Editor and gender journalist Sukanya Shaji, and senior journalist and teacher Maya Sharma.In the second part of the discussion, the hosts and Maya delve into Karnataka’s so called ‘government on maintenance’ and allegations of the Congress squandering away its power.Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introduction 00:02:27 - Headlines 00:10:40 - Power rewrites consent00:59:06 - Karnataka Govt01:17:29- RecommendationsYou can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali, written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the recent political developments in Andhra Pradesh, including CM Chandrababu Naidu’s growing affiliation with the BJP. They are joined by professor, politician, and political analyst K Nageshwar.In the second part of the discussion, the hosts delve into the controversy at the Kochi Biennale, where a painting by artist Tom Vattakuzhy, titled ‘Supper at Nunnery’ was withdrawn due to pressure from Christian groups. The hosts also discuss resistance to art in general, and are joined by Kavitha Balakrishnan, an art history lecturer, poet, curator and author.Read the Sridhar Vembu profileOnce a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well. Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introduction 00:02:05 - Headlines 00:10:10 - Andhra Politics 00:52:05 - Kochi Biennale Row 01:15:39- Recommendations You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali, written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the strike by gig workers on December 25th and 31st, what their demands are and whether the existing framework of payouts and stipulated minimum delivery time violates their rights.The hosts are joined by Shaikh Salahuddin, founder and president of Telangana Gig And Platform Workers Union, and Maitreyi Krishnan, a lawyer and president of the All India Lawyers Association for Justice.In the second part of the discussion, the hosts delve into the upcoming elections in Kerala and Tamil Nadu and what alliances will fly and which of them will likely fail. The hosts are joined by senior journalist Dr RK Radhakrishnan.Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introduction 00:03:10 - Headlines 00:12:03 - Gig Workers Strike  00:52:16 - TN & Kerala Elections 01:27:02- RecommendationsYou can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Megha Mukundan, edited by Jaseem Ali, written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this special year-ender episode, Newslaundry’s Abhinandan Sekhri and Manisha Pande and The News Minute’s Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna are joined by columnist and media critic Santosh Desai.The conversation begins with a wrap of the Indian media ecosystem this year. Santosh says, “Institutions are struggling to retain credibility and resist pressure.” Dhanya argues that mainstream media exerts significant influence over people, but on social media, the results vary.Discussing the state of the media more specifically in Karnataka, Pooja notes that although it's “heavily compromised”, it can still be seen as a “lesser evil” compared to the Hindi and English media.Manisha argues that, in terms of news consumption, the internet can be very ruthless – in contrast to legacy media, which does not have to face the crash and burn. She cites the example of Beer Biceps, whose rapid rise and fall illustrate this ruthlessness.Some influencers, Dhanya says, have also realised that “credibility comes with consistency”. On the economic front, Abhinandan explains, “It is the lethargy of legacy media that is reflected in their belief about how business is done – in large spaces and studios. Hence, sustainability and viewership become two completely different things.”The panel also discusses advertisements that make them nostalgic. Dhanya says, “Now, we pay to remove ads. I cannot remember the last time I watched an ad.” Meanwhile, Abhinandan notes, “The death of ads is the death of jingles, which in turn traces to the death of radio.”While discussing Arnab Goswami's recent shows that questioned the central government, Pooja remarks, “This man can damage the country by stooping so low, but all it takes for him to be viewed as a crusader is the targeting of a soft issue as a larger strategy.”This and a lot more. Tune in!Letters to NL Hafta and South Central: ‘Pointless’ Nikhil Kamath article, love for Dhanya and improving AQI2025 is coming to an end, make it count: https://rzp.io/rzp/gnWUWkcSupport the show: https://rzp.io/rzp/south-centralFor viewers outside India: https://buy.stripe.com/dR6bK841T9ll0GAeVgSouth Central Feedback Survey: https://forms.gle/fotHnLrY7uEVbzSB8Recommendations: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1SuGm5-JwvRc4SCazAtW9956IKfsy3RrTJOFMsvbhmGE/edit?gid=0#gid=0To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereTimecodes00:00:00 - Introductions & announcements00:02:16 - Headlines00:07:30 - Brands vs individuals: Understanding news models 00:33:15 - Karnataka Hate Speech Bill00:38:00 - How has advertising changed?00:59:00 - Santosh’s recommendations01:00:00 - Arnab Goswami’s turnaround 01:07:00 - Christmas violence  01:12:00 - Letters01:35:13 - Recommendations Song: Badumbaaa - Zumba ZumbaReferencesPrasar Bharati’s curliest tale: How taxpayer money was used for influencer contentKiran Bedi Tapes: Does the law allow a ‘concerned mother’ to request a surveillance operation?Read Santosh Desai’s columns Abhinandan’s interview with Dhruv Rathee Abhinandan’s interview with Harvinder Kaur ChowdhuryRecommendationsSantosh Desai New India by Rahul Bhatia Anxious Generation by Jonathan HaidtPluribusThe ExpanseAbhinandan Believer's Dilemma: Vajpayee and the Hindu Right's Path to Power, 1977–2018 by Abhishek ChoudharyVajpayee: The Ascent of the Hindu Right, 1924–1977 by Abhishek Choudhary Pooja PrasannaA Controversial Judge DhanyaThe Dig: Keeladi and the Politics of India's Past by Sowmiya AshokSerialThe Muhammad Yunus government played with fire, now Bangladesh burns againBeliever's DilemmaManisha Shattered Lands : Five Partitions and the Making of Modern Asia by Sam DalrympleGods Guns & Missionaries: The Making of the Modern Hindu Identity by Manu S. PillaiSubscribe to Newslaundry and The News MinuteLapgun DJCheck out previous Hafta recommendations, references, songs and letters.Recorded and produced by Priyali Dhingra. Production assistance by Megha Mukundan and  Ajay. Edited by Saif Ali Ekram. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this year-ender episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna discuss federalism and how it has fared in India. They are joined by economist and author Rathin Roy, and TNM’s Associate Editor Nandini Chandrasekhar.Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well. 00:00:00- Introduction 00:02:01 - Headlines 00:15:53 - Federalism01:17:29- Recommendations You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali, written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna discuss whether investigative journalism is becoming one of the most endangered professions in India or is that a misplaced fear. Looking back at 2025, the conversation focuses on how much space investigative reporting still has, the risks journalists face, and whether strong reporting is able to create real impact. They are joined by investigative journalists Josy Joseph, founder of Confluence Media, Rema Nagarajan, senior editor-research at Times of India and independent journalist Nikita Saxena.Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introduction 00:00:51 - Kerala Actor Assault Case00:01:48 - Headlines 00:13:07 - Investigative Journalism in India 01:03:10- Recommendations Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna discuss India’s Constitutional value of secularism and the contradictions in its practice. The panel delves into how India has fared, or not, in prioritising Constitutional values vis-à-vis political agenda. They are joined by journalist and activist Aakar Patel and Seema Chishti, the editorial head of The Wire.Reporting Fund: The Shady Business of Stolen FootageOnce a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introduction 00:01:07 - CCTV series00:03:56- Dileep Case Verdict00:06:07 - Headlines 00:16:29 - Secularism in India01:29:41- RecommendationsCheck out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali and written by Sukanya Shaji Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the Kerala actor assault case of 2017, which superstar Dileep is accused of orchestrating. As the verdict is expected in a week, the hosts take us through the details of the case and its impact on Kerala society. They are joined by TNM’s Associate Editor, Sukanya Shaji and Breaking News Head, Azeefa Fathima. In the second session, the hosts delve into the SIR, the pressure exerted on BLOS, and the discrepancies in the process itself. The guests are joined by TNM’s Tamil Nadu Bureau Chief Shabbir Ahmed.The News Minute & Newslaundry 26% discount offerOnce a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introduction 00:01:11 - 26% Discount00:05:16 - Headlines 00:12:57 - Dileep Case Verdict 00:48:03 - SIR Across States01:16:22- RecommendationsCheck out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click here Produced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali and written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the anti-vaccine statements made by billionaire Sridhar Vembu. In the second session, the hosts delve into the efforts of several governments, including Karnataka and Andhra, to implement a PPP model in the health education sector. The hosts are joined by Dr PV Ramesh, IAS, and Dr Sylvia Karpagam, a public health doctor with more than two decades of experience.Let Me Explain is 100 not outOnce a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introduction 00:01:08 - LME 10000:02:22 - Headlines 00:13:33 - Vembu’s Anti-Vax Claim 00:47:36 - Privatisation of hospitals 01:18:53- Recommendations Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali and written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Anisha Sheth first discuss Kerala’s announcement that it has eradicated extreme poverty. They are joined by T.V. Anupama, IAS officer and Special Secretary, Local Self Government Department and Devaswom, and Freddy Thomas, Assistant Professor at the School of Law, Christ University. The discussion explores how families were identified, the state’s micro-plan approach to welfare, and the challenges of sustaining such interventions over time.In the second part of the episode, the hosts are joined by senior journalist Prajwal Bhatt from New York to discuss Zohran Mamdani’s election as New York City’s mayor. Prajwal explains how Mamdani’s campaign mobilised young voters and sections of Indian Americans, including “Hindus for Zohran,” while drawing sharp reactions from segments of the Indian right wing.Read: Ayodhya of the southOnce a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introduction 00:01:44 - Ayodhya of the south 00:04:03 - Headlines 00:14:02 - Kerala eradicates extreme poverty 00:49:26 - Mamdani wins01:09:51 - Yogendra Yadav on SIR  01:25:02- Recommendations Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Anisha Sheth first discuss the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter rolls across the country, and the controversies surrounding it. The hosts are joined by activist and psephologist Yogendra Yadav. In the second part of the session, the hosts discuss two High Court orders–from Kerala and Karnataka– that quash FIRs in sexual harassment cases. They are joined by former lawyer and journalist Sukanya Shaji.This week's episode is brought to you by Newslaundry. Click here to supportThe Shady Business of Stolen Footage: Support the report fund Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introduction 00:01:44 - CCTV Series 00:02:47 - Headlines 00:08:45 - Support Newslaundry 00:09:45 - Headlines00:15:12 - Yogendra Yadav on SIR  00:54:55- Bumble & Ranjith Cases01:15:38- Recommendations Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali and written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Anisha Sheth first discuss the hijab controversy in Kerala, and whether it is a question of faith or the right to education. The hosts are joined by senior journalist Shahina KK and TNM’s Executive Editor Sudipto Mondal. In the second part of the session, the hosts discuss the newly announced Google data centre in Visakhapatnam, whether it is viable for the state, and the row between Karnataka and Andhra ministers over it. The hosts are joined by Indulekha Aravind, a senior journalist who primarily writes on business.Celebrate Deepavali with us with this special offer: https://pages.razorpay.com/deepavali25 Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introduction 00:01:04: Diwali Offer00:01:52 - RSF Press Freedom Nomination00:05:05 - Headlines 00:19:00 - Kerala Hijab row  00:58:10- Karnataka-Andhra Spat01:15:27- Recommendations Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali and written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Anisha Sheth first discuss the Supreme Court’s acquittal of Dashwanth, convicted and sentenced to death for the rape and murder of a minor girl in Tamil Nadu. They are joined by Azeefa Fathima, TNM’s head of Breaking News. In the second part of the session, the hosts discuss the RSS’s centenary year and the outfit’s presence in the southern states. They are joined by historian and author V Geetha, and TNM’s Executive Editor Sudipto Mondal.Celebrate Deepavali with us with this special offer: https://pages.razorpay.com/deepavali25 Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introduction 00:01:35: Diwali Offer00:02:48 - Headlines 00:12:18 - Dashwanth Case  00:43:38- RSS in south India01:24:05- Recommendations Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali and written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Putting south India at the centre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss whether the attack on the Chief Justice of India, BR Gavai, is more than what just meets the eye. Justice Gavai is the second Dalit CJI of India. The hosts are joined by Ajoy Ashirwad, Political Affairs Editor, The Wire, and veteran journalist K Venkataramanan. In the second part of the session, the hosts and guests discuss the power of cults in politics and the power of fans when stars become politicians. Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central.Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introduction 00:02:42 - Headlines 00:13:56 - CJI Gavai Attack  00:43:02- Power of Cults in Politics01:09:21 - Recommendations Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali and written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, The News Minute's Dhanya Rajendran and Sudipto Mondal, and Newslaundry’s Abhinandan Sekhri and Manisha Pande áre joined by senior journalist Josy Joseph for a special and South Central and Hafta crossover episode on the future of media.Josy begins the discussion by arguing that the decline of newspapers and television is accelerating, not only due to technology, but also because of a compromised business model. He points out that while balance sheets are “artificially protected” through government and corporate advertising, the reality is stark.Dhanya shares hard lessons on what audiences pay for. While issues like climate change receive constant calls for coverage, they draw little financial support. “Everybody’s always asking why you guys are not reporting on the environment… but that is one fund people hardly pay,” she says. Manisha adds that the future role of journalism lies in helping audiences think critically in an “age of reels and feels.” “While others can trigger emotions, journalists can provide context, history, and perspective,” she says. On the replacement for legacy media, Josy says, “What you people are doing at The News Minute and Newslaundry, to me, is a great laboratory of experiment. You are actually bringing journalism back as the intellectual property for which people should pay,” he says. Timecodes00:00:00 – Introductions and announcements00:12:26 – Headlines 00:37:42 -  Discussion on the future of media 01:28:17 - RecommendationsOnce a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Priyali Dhingra (Newslaundry), Bhuvan Malik (TNM), with production assistance by Ajay. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the controversy in Karnataka over the socio-educational survey, wrongly called the caste census. The hosts are joined by guests Anisha Sheth, TNM’s Karnataka Bureau Chief, and Shivasundar, writer and activist. In the second part of the session, the hosts discuss whether the price of movie tickets should be capped to make them affordable for common people. They are joined by film producer, writer, and director G Dhananjayan.Reporting Fund: The Shady Business of Stolen FootageOnce a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central.Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introduction 00:01:24 - Reporting Fund 00:03:30 - Headlines 00:17:26 - Socio-Education Survey 00:44:29- Cap on Movie tickets01:04:31 - RecommendationsCheck out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali and written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the safety of Indians abroad in the context of a surge in anti-immigration sentiments across Ireland, US, UK and more. Joining them are guests Joyojeet Pal and Bharathy Singaravel. The second part of the discussion is on two court orders– one, on Reliance Vantara, which says no further complaints will be entertained against the Ambanis’ enterprise. The second is an ex parte injunction in favour of the Adani group, allowing them to add any number of URLs to be taken down–YouTube, Instagram, and others, including an episode of South Central. Investigative journalist Saurav Das joins the hosts. Reporting Fund: India's Hidden Digital ExploitationOnce a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central. Audio Timecodes00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:43 - Support TNM 00:03:36 - Headlines 00:09:05 - Are Indians safe abroad? 00:50:45 - Freedom of press at stake? 1:14:36 - RecommendationsCheck out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali and written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the long legal process endured by Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam, and others who have been in prison without trial. The hosts are joined by lawyer and activist Shahrukh Alam and Poorna Ravishankar, lawyer and researcher whose focus area of study has been the Indian Constitution. In the second part of the discussion, the hosts discuss how political leaders in the South are navigating the thin line between secularism and faith. They are joined by Dr Meera Velayudhan, a writer, policy analyst, activist, feminist scholar, and former president of IAWS. She is the daughter of Dakshayani Velayudhan, the youngest and only Dalit member of the Constituent Assembly.Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introductions00:03:03 - Media Rumble00:04:47- Headlines00:09:58 - UAPA: Umar Khalid and Sharjeel 00:46:50- Southern CMs and Secularism  1:20:43 - Recommendations Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central.Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali and written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss K Kavitha’s resignation from the BRS and what it reveals about power, patriarchy, and BC mobilisation in Telangana, set against the Kaleshwaram probe and the CBI-consent twist. They are joined by Tara Krishnaswamy, Political and Policy Consultant, and C Vanaja, Senior Journalist & Founder, Mahua Media, to unpack the family dynamics, the party calculus, and what Kavitha does next.In the second part, the panel turns to the new GST regime, where federalism is at the heart of the debate. While consumers see gains from simplified taxation and lower rates, many states flag mounting revenue losses and shrinking fiscal space. Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Announcement00:01:28 - Gauri Lankesh 00:04:41- Headlines00:10:13 - Kavitha’s BRS Exit 00:45:40- New GST Regime  01:05:47 - Letters 1:07:25 - Recommendations Remembering Gauri Lankesh: Impunity in journalist killings in India Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central.Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss Anant Ambani’s Vantara project and how, under the guise of animal rescue, it may be hiding something far more sinister. They are joined by investigative journalist M Rajshekhar, who has looked into Vantara’s formation, investigating deep into the problems in law, compliance, and more. In the second part of the discussion, the panel weighs in on the allegations of sexual misconduct against Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil. The hosts are joined by journalists KK Shahina and Sukanya Shaji.Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introductions00:01:27 - Support TNM 00:02:52 - Headlines 00:08:05 - Dharmasthala Case00:13:25 - Vantara 00:41:53- Rahul Mamkootathil allegations01:11:25 - Recommendations Read Nidhi Suresh's Story: Against God’s men: A nun, a bishop, and the trial of India’s Catholic Church Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central.Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali, written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath first discuss the ‘vote chori’ press conference by the Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, issuing a seven-day ultimatum to Rahul Gandhi and anyone else casting doubts on the election process. Senior investigative journalist and Executive Editor of The Scroll, Supriya Sharma, joins them.In the second part of the discussion, the hosts discuss the criminal trial of Bishop Franco Mulakkal, a powerful priest of the Catholic church. Franco was tried for rape, based on a complaint by a nun–the first ever such case in the country. They are joined by Nidhi Suresh, who spoke to the survivor nun, to trace her side of the story.Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introductions00:03:54 - Headlines 00:13:35 - Election Commission 00:51:27 - Nun who took Bishop Franco to court 01:08:50- Letters 01:20:32 - Recommendations Read Nidhi Suresh's Story: Against God’s men: A nun, a bishop, and the trial of India’s Catholic Church Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central.Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali, written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath first discuss the conviction of former Janata Dal (Secular) leader Prajwal Revanna in the first of four cases of rape against him. The panel, joined by TNM Karnataka bureau chief Anisha Sheth, weighs in on why the judgement is a milestone for survivors of sexual assault. In the second part of the discussion, the panel discusses the controversy surrounding the 71st National Film Awards and whether the awards are being excessively politicised to suit a Hindu majoritarian agenda. Former journalist and film producer Miriam Joseph joins the hosts to weigh in on whether the Awards have lost their credibility.Audio Timecodes  00:00:00- Introductions00:01:46: Support TNM 00:06:35 - Headlines 00:13:44 - Prajwal Revanna Conviction00:35:15 - National Awards01:10:43 - Recommendations Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central.Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali, written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath first discuss the Bajrang Dal attack and consequential arrest of two nuns in Chhattisgarh-- Sister Preethi Mary and Sister Vandana Francis--both part of the Sister Assisi Mary Immaculate Convent. They are joined by senior advocate and founder of the Human Rights Law Network, Colin Gonsalves, who speaks about the trend of right-wing attacks on Christians in the country. In the second part of the discussion, the panel looks at the TCS’s decision to lay off staff and whether big companies can force employees to leave. The panel also weighs in on whether AI plays a part in this, pointing towards an impending employment crisis. The hosts are joined by guests Sriram Rajagopal and A Welkin. Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introductions00:01:54: Support TNM 00:02:40 - Headlines 00:10:28 - Attacks on Christians 00:50:53 - TCS layoffs 01:24:21 - Recommendations Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central.Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali, written by Sukanya Shaji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode of South Central, Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath discuss the life and legacy of V.S. Achuthanandan with environmentalist Sridhar Radhakrishnan and senior journalist Sreejan Balakrishnan.Then, they look at the recent gag orders related to reporting on Dharmasthala, and revisit older allegations and data on deaths in the temple town, with TNM’s Karnataka Bureau Chief Anisha Sheth.Audio Timecodes 00: 00:00- Introduction00:01:20- Headlines 00:08:09- Support TNM00:09:50 - VS Achuthanandan's Legacy 01:10:02- Dharmasthala Case & Gag Orders 1:31:12- Recommendations Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central.Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Leena Raghunath first discuss actor Vijay’s entry into Tamil Nadu politics. They are joined by senior journalist Kavitha Muralidharan and TNM’s Tamil Nadu bureau chief Shabbir Ahamed, who speak at length about whether Vijay will impact the state’s politics and if his party’s followers, who are predominantly fans of his films, are politicised enough to give him an election win. In the second part of the episode, the hosts are joined by Captain Amit Singh and Captain Sam Thomas, who weigh in on the Air India Ahmedabad plane crash and the controversy surrounding what may have happened in the cockpit in the final moments.Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Announcement00:03:08- Introduction00:03:35- Headlines00:11:23 - Vijay in TN Politics00:41:39- Air India Crash Report 1:22:26 - Recommendations Watch or Listen to Let Me Explain| Bodies, Bones, and Silence: The Questions Haunting Dharmasthala Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central.Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali, written by Sukanya Shaji Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath discuss the Vijay Mallya podcast and why political patronage for big businessmen is detrimental. Joining them is senior business journalist Sucheta Dalal. In the second discussion, the hosts delve into the Bharat Mata image controversy in Kerala and the impact of university VCs and Governors endorsing such symbols.Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introduction00:01:05- Announcements 00:05:40- Headlines00:11:05 - Vijay Mallya’s Half-Truths01:00:32- Saffornisation of Bharat Mata1:16:47 - Recommendations Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central.Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali, written by Sukanya Shaji Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath discuss the tussle between DK Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah over the state’s Chief Minister-ship. Professor Chandan Gowda joins them to unpack what this will mean for the state’s politics. In the second half, activist Shivasundar joins the hosts for a discussion on the hypocrisy of the RSS with respect to comments on the Preamble of the Constitution.Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introduction00:01:46- Announcements 00:03:31- Headlines00:14:26 - Karnataka State Leadership00:35:31- Preamble 01:13:08 - Letters1:17:47 - Recommendations Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central.Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Vignesh Manickam Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Leena Reghunath discuss the censorship on director Honey Trehan’s film ‘Punjab95’, based on human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra and what the UDF’s win in the Nilambur polls in Kerala means for the state’s politics. Guests Honey Trehan, Amandeep Sandhu, and MG Radhakrishnan weigh in.All this and more—tune in.Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introduction00:02:13- Announcements 00:03:20- Headlines00:08:00 - Punjab 95 & Censorship 01:02:25- Nilambur Election1:25:12 - Recommendations Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central.Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 32 of South Central, Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna speak with journalist Sivapriyan ETB about why the Keezhadi excavation challenges the Union government’s narrative and how the DMK is politicising it ahead of 2026.In the second half, lawyer Rohin Bhatt and journalist Leena Reghunath join to discuss the Sonam Raghuvanshi murder case in Meghalaya and what it reveals about caste, patriarchy, and forced marriages.All this and more—tune in.Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central.Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 31 of South Central, singer Chinmayi Sripaada joins hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath to talk about her years of isolation after speaking out against sexual harassment in the Tamil film industry. From being unofficially banned despite hit songs to the emotional impact of her recent Thug Life performance, Chinmayi reflects on what it means to be remembered again for her music.In the first half of the episode, the hosts also speak with senior journalist Nandini Chandrasekhar about the Chinnaswamy stampede in Bengaluru. As the Karnataka government distances itself from responsibility and the police are scapegoated, who is really accountable for the chaos that followed RCB’s IPL win?All this and more—tune in.Audio timecodes00:01:52- Introduction00:03.32 - Headlines00:09:14 - RCB Chinnaswamy Stampede00:19:43 - Chinmayi Sripaada001:08:49 - Letters 01:21:12- RecommendationsOnce a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central.Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of South Central hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath discuss the tragic stampede that occurred in Bengaluru during RCB’s post-win celebrations, and Kamal Haasan’s comment on Kannada’s origin. They are joined by journalists Venkat Ananth, Anisha Sheth and Professor Purushothama Bilemale. Audio timecodes00:00:00- Introduction00:03.43 - Headlines00.5.47 - RCB’s post-win tragedy00.40.53 - Kamal Hassan vs Kannada01.17.15 - RecommendationsOnce a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central.Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click hereProduced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 29 of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath discuss the dichotomy of the BJP’s Muslim-messaging within India and abroad. In the second section, they also talk about whether art can be truly separated from the artist. Joining the discussion are The Wire’s editor Seema Chishti, Musician TM Krishna, and senior journalist Anna MM Vetticad. Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to [email protected] Send your thoughts, suggestions and criticism as well.You can also let us know what you think by filling out our quick feedback form. Your suggestions help shape future episodes of South Central.Check out the recommendations and references from this episode.Become a subscriber - Click here.Contribute to our reporting fund. Click here. To check out our other shows, Click here To not miss any updates, join TNM's WhatsApp Channel! Click here Produced by Bhuvan Malik, edited by Jaseem Ali. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.