William Dalrymple: How Ancient India Shaped the World - Trade, Buddhism & Mathematical Legacy

What made Anup Soni the actor he is today? From a chance encounter that kickstarted his career in Sea Hawks to behind-the-scenes drama from some of the biggest films and TV shows, this episode of Cyrus Says is packed with surprises! 🎥 Ever wondered what life at NSD is really like? Or what happens when someone turns the tables on their juniors? Anup spills it all—along with a hilarious story involving some big Bollywood names. And wait till you hear what he has to say about almost landing a lead role in an RGV classic. 👀 He talks acting, unforgettable moments from sets, and the lessons that have shaped his journey. Don’t miss out—tune in now to hear Anup Soni on Cyrus Says!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Discover the spine-chilling secrets behind Vadakkan, his latest feature about a Finnish paranormal investigator unearthing eerie deaths on a Kerala reality TV set—only to face a sinister Dravidian cult on a desolate island. What inspired this gripping tale, and what bizarre experiences did Sajeed encounter while bringing it to life? But that’s just the beginning. Relive MTV’s golden days with Cyrus and Sajeed as they share hilarious behind-the-scenes stories. Ever wondered what happened during their quirky shoot with Amitabh Bachchan? Or how Oscar-winning sound designer Resul Pookutty brought magic to the set? And wait till you hear about Cyrus Sahukar’s legendary cigarette trap—you don’t want to miss! Sajeed also reveals his creative journey: from directing music videos for Ghanchakkar (yes, the Vidya Balan and Emraan Hashmi starrer!) to crafting hard-hitting documentaries. Hear his fascinating experiences capturing the story of Jadav Payeng, India’s “Forest Man,” and amplifying Kashmiri rapper MC Kash’s voice.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ila Arun, the legendary voice behind Choli Ke Peechhey from Khal Nayak (1993), has been a trailblazer in Indian performing arts for nearly five decades. From championing Rajasthani folk music to collaborating with icons like Shyam Benegal, Shabana Azmi, and Smita Patil, Ila’s journey is a masterclass in versatility. On Cyrus Says, Ila dives into her creative evolution—her passion for theatre, her latest musical project Charkha with Dhruv Ghanekar, and her transition to becoming an author with her candid autobiography. With humor and insight, she shares stories about her first days in Mumbai, navigating old-school romance, and her hilarious take on Gen-Z slang. Tune in for an inspiring chat filled with backstage anecdotes, creative highs, and Ila’s unwavering love for Rajasthani folk music. Don’t miss this captivating conversation with a true cultural icon!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Cyrus Says, we have Mani Shankar Aiyar who’s known for his razor-sharp wit and unapologetic honesty, Aiyar offers a rare glimpse into the corridors of power, recounting his journey as a three-term Member of Parliament, India’s first Minister of Panchayati Raj, a UPA cabinet minister, and a Rajya Sabha member. True to form, Aiyar spares no one, not even himself. The panel delves into his candid recollections of political titans like Sonia Gandhi, P.V. Narasimha Rao, Vajpayee, and Manmohan Singh, while also discussing his take on key issues like the BJP’s rise in Indian politics, the Kaveri Water Crisis, and the Harshad Mehta Scam. Through these anecdotes we discover realities of Indian politics and the personal cost of being a non-conformist in a system dominated by conformity. Don’t miss this engaging discussion that brings humor, wit, and sharp insights into the life and times of one of India’s most intriguing political figures.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Cyrus Says! Chess Champ Gukesh, Raj Kapoor's 100, Pushpa 2, Drones, Soros, Zakir Hussain | AMA ft @‌shaadshafi Get ready for a jam-packed AMA episode of Cyrus Says featuring Shaad Shafi, where we tackle everything from chessboard battles to Bollywood legends, global intrigue, and quirky debates. We dive into the dramatic clash between Ding Liren and Gukesh, followed by a tribute to 100 years of Raj Kapoor’s cinematic legacy. The episode also unpacks the tragic case of Bengaluru techie Subhash Atul, exploring the shocking arrests and family feud that made headlines. We discuss the mysterious drones hovering over the US East Coast, raising global security concerns, and Allu Arjun’s Pushpa 2 bail drama that sparks debates on safety versus stardom. With Gadkari revealing alarming road accident statistics in India, we ask if the nation is inadvertently auditioning for Khatron Ke Khiladi. We also cover Stephen Carter’s wild Zoom party rant, where corporate life meets a Breaking Bad moment. Plus, the debate around George Soros—villain or visionary entrepreneur?—adds to the intrigue. Celebrating the legacy of tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, we reflect on his incredible contributions to music while pondering modern quirks like losing precious life minutes to snacks. This episode is packed with wit, humor, and engaging commentary on today’s most intriguing stories. Don’t miss this thrilling episode—like, share, and subscribe to Cyrus Says for more exciting conversations!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Explore the fascinating history of the "Golden Road," as William Dalrymple reveals how ancient India shaped global civilization. From dominating Indo-Roman trade and spreading Buddhism across Asia to influencing Southeast Asian art, Chinese poetry, and Baghdad's observatories, India’s rich legacy in trade, mathematics, and culture left a lasting mark. Discover the rise of Indian influence through the Silk Route, the origins of zero, and the transformative power of ideas that reached Europe by the 13th century. Inspired by Angkor Wat, Dalrymple's book chronicles India's profound impact on Eurasia from 250 BC to 1200 AD.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lights, camera, parenting! In this heart-to-heart episode of Cyrus Says, actors Ali Fazal and Richa Chadha open up about their exciting new chapter as parents to daughter Zuneyra Ida Fazal. From sleepless nights to the rollercoaster of fatherhood, they share the highs and lows of balancing parenthood with thriving careers. Together they roast Ali, while Richa reveals how she navigates her professional life alongside motherhood. Expect a mix of funny moments with grilling Ali Fazal & pranks Richa played on him. They spill the beans on their latest venture as producers of the much-anticipated film Girls Will Be Girls—a bold and refreshing take on growing up.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Ask Me Anything episode, stand-up comedian Punit Pania brings his hilarious perspective to the week’s biggest stories. From Taijul Islam’s incredible 5-for-50 against the West Indies to Bryan Johnson’s futuristic health meeting with Shloka Ambani, Anand Piramal, and Sonam Kapoor, no topic escapes Punit’s sharp observations. He also dives into the buzz around Devendra Fadnavis becoming BJP’s legislative leader and the festive energy it’s sparked. Vivek Oberoi’s journey from career lows to building a ₹1200-crore empire and Dulquer Salmaan breaking OTT records with Lucky Baskhar get the Punit treatment, blending humor with deep insights.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Cyrus Says, Gajraj Rao joins the conversation to discuss trending topics, including Dua Lipa acing Shah Rukh Khan’s choreography in the ‘Levitating x Woh Ladki Jo’ mash-up and Vikrant Massey’s surprise retirement from the film industry.The discussion also covers Pakistan’s hybrid model proposal for ICC events, Aaditya Thackeray’s strong stance on Maharashtra’s political delays, and the incredible story of a 10-year-old Indian-British prodigy with an IQ score of 162. Plus, a shoutout to pop culture icons like Karan Aujhla, Diljit Dosanjh, and Salman Rushdie. Don’t miss this exciting episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us on Cyrus Says as we dive into the incredible journey of Vrajesh Hirjee, a multi-talented entertainer who has left his mark on Indian cinema, theatre, and beyond. Known for his unforgettable roles in films like Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai, Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein, and Golmaal: Fun Unlimited, Vrajesh shares insights into his creative process and the stories behind some of his most iconic characters, including the beloved Pandurang. In this candid chat, he talks about his experience working with comedy legend Johnny Lever, the lasting impact of Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein, and how he brings humor and drama to every role, whether on-screen or as an RJ for Big FM 92.7. Vrajesh also opens up about hosting the Pro Kabaddi League on Star Sports. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to Cyrus Says for more exciting conversations with your favorite celebrities!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.