Writing with Purpose

Comics shaped our childhoods, and for Shreya and Anuj, they became a tool to reshape our cities too. Their comics invite readers to reflect on how cities function, who they serve, and how they can be designed to be safer, kinder, and more inclusive. Through Leewardists and Urbanist Comix, Shreya and Anuj have built a unique space that brings together experts and citizens to spark meaningful conversations.Whether you’re a comic lover, a city enthusiast, or someone curious about how creativity can drive social change, this episode offers a deep look into the intersection of art and urban activism. Join us!📢 Featuring:Anuj and Shreya Leewardists & Urbanist Comix🎙️ Hosted by:Vani Herlekar, Founder, City Collab

In this episode, Vani sits down with Mansi, Sarfaraz, and Mahesh — the visionary founders behind Studio POD, one of India’s leading urban design practices.With over a decade of experience in shaping cities through thoughtful design, they reflect on the early challenges of building their practice, the discipline that guided them, and the shared values that continue to anchor their work.Together, they unpack:-The power of drawing as a tool for visual communication-How to craft compelling project pitches- The value of global knowledge exchange📢 Featuring:Mansi Sahu, Sarfaraz Momin, Mahesh WaghdhareFounders, Studio POD🎙️ Hosted by:Vani Herlekar, Founder, City Collab

In this episode Vani sits down with urban mobility expert Shreya Gadepalli to unpack the power of experiential communication in transforming cities—from cycle rickshaws to BRTS, and from national programs to everyday storytelling.🎧 Tune in now to hear from one of India’s leading voices in mobility and urban change. 📢 Featuring: Shreya GadepalliFounder & Managing Trustee, UrbanWorks Institute 🎙️ Hosted by:Vani Herlekar, Founder of City Collab. 

This month, we’re in conversation with Mukta Naik—urban planner and policy researcher.With over 20 years of experience in planning, advocacy, and research, Mukta breaks down policymaking behind urban challenges like affordable housing, migration, and livelihoods—and why it all comes back to one thing: communicating with people.✨ Tune in! 📢 Featuring: Mukta NaikLead - Policy, Centre for Sustainable Urban Livelihoods,National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) 🎙️ Hosted by:Vani Herlekar, Founder of City Collab.  

In this episode, Dr. Michael Elliott—Former Director of the Master’s in City and Regional Planning at Georgia Tech—joins us to unpack the art of consensus-building and mediation in urban practice.With decades of experience in conflict resolution and collaborative policy-making across the globe, Dr. Elliott shares insights on how urban practitioners can bridge divides, build trust, and foster inclusive dialogue among diverse stakeholders.A must-listen for planners, policymakers, and especially communicators. 📢 Featuring: Dr. Michael ElliottFormer Director, MCRP ProgramAssociate Professor of City & Regional Planning and Public Policy🎙️ Hosted by: Vani Herlekar, Founder of City Collab

In this episode, we sit down with artist and urban practitioner Natasha Sharma to explore the powerful intersection of public art and urban development. From murals that reclaim spaces to community-driven festivals that spark dialogue, Natasha's work is rooted in empowerment, inclusivity, and hope.We unpack how art can be a tool for social change, the challenges of working in public spaces, and the importance of local voices in shaping the urban fabric.Featuring: Natasha Sharma Lead, Arts and Design, Community Design Agency Co-founder, Govandi Arts Festival  Hosted by: Vani Herlekar, Founder of City Collab. 

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. A. Srivathsan to explore the power of writing in shaping urban planning, policies, and public discourse. From teaching to journalism to policy consulting, he shares insights from his fascinating career shifts and why clear communication is key to making an impact.Resources: Temples and colours By Dr. SrivathsanCritic's ManifestoNew Book Network