Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana is India’s first theatre podcast brought to you by Aadyam Theatre, An Aditya Birla Group Initiative. Listen in to conversations with actors, writers, directors, and more. We'll chat about their careers, their creative process and definitely some interesting stories. We
A child’s imagination knows no boundaries. So, what happens when theatre meets that limitless imagination? Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana steps into the world of theatre for young minds, where stories become more than performances; they become a way to spark curiosity, open conversations, and inspire children to see the world a little differently. This special episode brings together voices from the world of theatre to explore what it takes to create meaningful theatre for young audiences, stories that entertain, engage, question, and stay with them long after the curtain falls. From…
Lights up… music swells… and backstage, the energy builds as everyone searches for the cue to begin. A musical is never made by one person. It begins with an idea, finds its voice through music, comes alive through performance, and is held together by the countless artists working behind the scenes. In this special episode of Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana, we explore the world of Musical Theatre with Namit Das, Shruti Sharma, Sharvari Deshpande, and Amitosh Nagpal. Together, they take us behind the curtain to unpack the many moving parts that make a musical—from writing, lyrics, and…
The stage has always been a space for stories that challenge, celebrate, and reflect the many ways we experience the world. In this special episode of Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana, we celebrate pride month with some of the voices who have shaped queer storytelling and theatre in India. Joining us are ,Sakshi Juneja , co-founder of Gaysi Family and a pioneer of queer community spaces; Vikram Phukan, critic and playwright who has documented over 100 queer plays across the country; Faezeh Jalali, actor-director known for bringing powerful stories like Shikhandi to the stage; and Rani KoHEnur,…
Theatre ke liye kya zaruri hota hai? Ek stage, ek light, ek insaan... aur uski ek kahani. Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana opens its doors to the world of Spoken Word and conducts a special episode with the best of spoken word artists of India. This episode features Roshan Abbas, often regarded as one of the pioneers who helped bring spoken word poetry into the mainstream in India; Priya Malik, whose powerful performances and unapologetically honest voice have inspired an entire generation of poets; and Yahya Bootwala, one of the most loved and relatable voices in contemporary spoken word,…
Aadyam Theatre Group’s Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana is back!! And this time, we’re starting with a bang! With what is basically every desi theatre kid’s dream — NSD (National School of Drama). So get your ears ready, your theatre nostalgia activated, and your inner actor slightly triggered. Joining us are Kumud Mishra, Gopal Datt, Ipshita Chakraborty Singh, and Durgesh Kumar, as they take us inside those three years — where sleep is optional, hostel beds are mostly decorative, and your sense of self is… negotiable. From “Home Image” to “Lens of Status,” from Mandi House addas to full-blown…
In this powerful season finale, Akarsh Khurana sits down with the legendary Shah family - Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah, Heeba Shah, Imaad Shah, and Vivaan Shah for their first-ever podcast appearance together.Through candid reflections, spirited banter, and deeply personal stories, the Shahs take us behind the curtain of their remarkable lives in Indian theatre and cinema. From the early days of artistic rebellion and backstage chaos, to family dinners turned creative summits, this episode is a rich exploration of legacy, learning, and living artfully.What’s it like growing up in a…
In this powerful season finale, Akarsh Khurana sits down with the legendary Shah family - Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah, Heeba Shah, Imaad Shah, and Vivaan Shah for their first-ever podcast appearance together.Through candid reflections, spirited banter, and deeply personal stories, the Shahs take us behind the curtain of their remarkable lives in Indian theatre and cinema. From the early days of artistic rebellion and backstage chaos, to family dinners turned creative summits, this episode is a rich exploration of legacy, learning, and living artfully.What’s it like growing up in a…
In this episode of Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana – Season 2, we shine the spotlight on a new generation of storytellers redefining performance and creativity — Prajakta Koli, Zervaan Bunshah, Aadar Malik and Aisha Ahmed.From viral videos to theatre stages, screen roles to sketch comedy, these multi-talented creators and performers have carved out unique spaces for themselves in a rapidly evolving entertainment landscape. They join Akarsh for a candid, chaotic, and deeply insightful conversation about what it means to be a modern-day artist in India.What’s it like navigating the industry as…
In this episode of Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana – Season 2, we shine the spotlight on a new generation of storytellers redefining performance and creativity — Prajakta Koli, Zervaan Bunshah, Aadar Malik and Aisha Ahmed.From viral videos to theatre stages, screen roles to sketch comedy, these multi-talented creators and performers have carved out unique spaces for themselves in a rapidly evolving entertainment landscape. They join Akarsh for a candid, chaotic, and deeply insightful conversation about what it means to be a modern-day artist in India.What’s it like navigating the industry as…
In this episode of Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana - Season 2, we celebrate the fierce, fearless, and fabulous women of Indian theatre — Anahita Uberoi, Purva Naresh, Girija Godbole, and Manasi Parekh. With decades of experience on stage and screen, these powerhouse performers and storytellers take us behind the curtain to explore the craft, chaos, and courage it takes to thrive in the performing arts. What does it mean to hold space as a woman in this industry? What are the disparities they face? How is it to be a Women Director in the Theatre Circle? And many more such questions! Expect…
In this episode of Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana - Season 2, we celebrate the fierce, fearless, and fabulous women of Indian theatre — Anahita Uberoi, Purva Naresh, Girija Godbole, and Manasi Parekh. With decades of experience on stage and screen, these powerhouse performers and storytellers take us behind the curtain to explore the craft, chaos, and courage it takes to thrive in the performing arts. What does it mean to hold space as a woman in this industry? What are the disparities they face? How is it to be a Women Director in the Theatre Circle? And many more such questions! Expect…
In this episode of Unscripted, we explore the art of storytelling and the creative journey behind the scenes with three dynamic voices from the world of Indian cinema and theatre — Sheeba Chaddha, Neil Bhoopalam, and Shweta Tripathi. From navigating the transition between stage and screen to crafting authentic performances, this episode dives into questions like: What does it take to truly embody a character? How do actors and storytellers find meaning in their roles? What are the highs and lows of life in the performing arts? Our guests open up about their personal journeys, creative…
In this episode of Unscripted, we explore the art of storytelling and the creative journey behind the scenes with three dynamic voices from the world of Indian cinema and theatre — Sheebha Chadha, Neil Bopanna, and Shweta Tripathi. From navigating the transition between stage and screen to crafting authentic performances, this episode dives into questions like: What does it take to truly embody a character? How do actors and storytellers find meaning in their roles? What are the highs and lows of life in the performing arts? Our guests open up about their personal journeys, creative…
In this episode of Unscripted, we dive deep into the world of storytelling, scriptwriting, and the creative process with three brilliant scriptwriters from the Indian Theatre Society - Abhishek Majumdar, Irawati Karnik, and Siddharth Kumar. This episode covers questions like What does it take to write a compelling script?How do writers bring characters to life on stage?What are the struggles and triumphs of being a playwright? And our guests here have the answers just for you! They share their personal journeys, creative challenges, and writing philosophies that have helped them shape some…
In this episode of Unscripted, we dive deep into the world of storytelling, scriptwriting, and the creative process with three brilliant scriptwriters from the Indian Theatre Society - Abhishek Majumdar, Irawati Karnik, and Siddharth Kumar. This episode covers questions like What does it take to write a compelling script?How do writers bring characters to life on stage?What are the struggles and triumphs of being a playwright? And our guests here have the answers just for you! They share their personal journeys, creative challenges, and writing philosophies that have helped them shape some…
This episode of Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana covers some very interesting aspects of the teaching methodology of theatre in India. Our esteemed guests and forerunners of Adishakti Vinay Kumar and Nimmy Raphel along with the visionary director Atul Kumar talk of the various approaches that might help budding thespians. This episode can act as a guide to learning theatre, while the main question that was posed to them was “Can acting be learned?” The conversation covers all aspects, ranging from personal anecdotes to research, methodology and the teachings of Veenapani Chawla. A beautiful,…
This episode of Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana covers some very interesting aspects of the teaching methodology of theatre in India. Our esteemed guests and forerunners of Adishakti Vinay Kumar and Nimmy Raphel along with the visionary director Atul Kumar talk of the various approaches that might help budding thespians. This episode can act as a guide to learning theatre, while the main question that was posed to them was “Can acting be learned?”. The conversation covers all aspects, ranging from personal anecdotes to research, methodology and the teachings of Veenapani Chawla. A beautiful,…
In this episode of Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana, we dive deep into the interaction and relationship of theatre and politics. Our guests, renowned director Sunil Shanbag and well known actor Gitanjali Kulkarni throw light on aspects that develop a deeper understanding of how politics truly affects and influences theatre. From their own plays to their residencies and goodwill projects like Goshtarang and Quest, theatre has been a big part of their lives and made a change in some form. To get an exclusive cut of the conversation, listen to the episode now! Produced by MnM Talkies.
In this episode of Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana, we dive deep into the interaction and relationship of theatre and politics. Our guests, renowned director Sunil Shanbag and well known actor Gitanjali Kulkarni throw light on aspects that develop a deeper understanding of how politics truly affects and influences theatre. From their own plays to their residencies and goodwill projects like Goshtarang and Quest, theatre has been a big part of their lives and made a change in some form. To know more, watch the entire episode now! Produced by MnM Talkies 00.00-00.35- Intro. 00.35- 01.49- Cold…
In the first episode of season 2 of the Aadyam Podcast, Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana we cover all things funny! The conversation, led by our host and blessed by our guests Anu Menon, Vrajesh Hirjee and Varun Thakur ranges from standup specials to theatrical performances. We dive deep into the art of comedy, the process of building jokes, dealing with self-censorship, the struggles of getting non comic work for typically comic actors and much, much more! To know more, watch the entire episode now! Chapters: 00:00-01:56: Introduction. 01:57- 3:13: Episode and Guest Introduction. 03:11-…
In the first episode of season 2 of the Aadyam Podcast, Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana we cover all things funny! The conversation, led by our host and blessed by our guests Anu Menon, Vrajesh Hirjee and Varun Thakur ranges from standup specials to theatrical performances. We dive deep into the art of comedy, the process of building jokes, dealing with self-censorship, the struggles of getting non comic work for typically comic actors and much, much more! To know more, listen to the exclusive cut of the episode now! Produced by MnM Talkies
Presenting: Season two of Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana, an Aadyam Podcast produced by MnM Talkies. This season is funny, controversial, exciting and extensive. Ranging from comedy to playwriting to feminism, we have it all ready and waiting for you! We have for you a diverse collection of very interesting and insightful conversations with our extremely enthusiastic guests. Over these 8 episodes we will talk considerably about all things theatre and beyond. Additionally, we have two versions of the show this time- one that you can watch on YouTube and another with exclusive content that you…
Discussing familial dynamics, the theatre world, and meaningful career advice! In this episode, Akarsh Khurana engages in a friendly, reflective conversation with his father Akash and brother, Aadhar discussing their relationship as theatre artists. The conversation traverses the duality of their roles as family and colleagues, exploring the balance between personal and professional dynamics. They also share their views on the recent evolution in the theatre world, attributing shifting audience sensibilities to changes in performance style and content. They elaborate on their respective…
In this episode of Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana, Sarang Sathaye and Mantra discuss their leap into regional and audio content creation. Discussing their individual journeys into the world of performing arts starting in smaller towns and moving to the urban hubs, the episode reveals how both Sarang and Mantra pioneered into uncharted territories with BhaDiPa and MNM Talkies, respectively. Sarang talks about the challenge to represent local stories through BhaDiPa and appeal to a widespread audience; Mantra shares about MNM Talkies, how it united his love for radio, cinema and theatre, and…
Bonded by their love of theatre, Zayn Khan and Abhishek Saha have had very different routes to making it in the world of entertainment. They open up to Akarsh Khurana and share how their journey has been so far and how it's going. Tune in for some amazing insights and a sparkling conversation on this episode of Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana.
In this insightful episode, Akarsh Khurana delves into the fascinating journey of Tahira Nath and Dilshad Edibam, two remarkable writers and actors whose collaborative spirit has left an indelible mark on the world of theatre. From their humble beginnings in the realm of children's theatre, where they co-directed the enchanting production 'Natkhat Krishna,' to their ventures into writing and acting for various platforms, including OTT, their creative synergy has yielded numerous captivating narratives that resonate with audiences of all ages. Discover the intricacies of their artistic bond,…
As far as theatre power couples go, there are few more powerful than the duo of Ayesha Raza Mishra and Kumud Mishra. Tracing their journeys from the beginning with Akarsh Khurana, the couple shares more than just their work life… find out more, tune in on your favourite podcast app.
From the sacred stages of theatre to the dazzling lights of Bollywood, Lillete Dubey has etched her name in gold with her unparalleled talent and unwavering passion. Akarsh Khurana brings you an exclusive glimpse into the world of theatrical brilliance that defines this artist's genius. Stay tuned, because this podcast episode isn't just a conversation; it's a front-row ticket to the spectacular life of a true artist!
Pratik Gandhi's journey from Surat to Mumbai is the stuff of lore. He's an engineer, worked in the corporate sector until he decided to give acting his full focus. On this episode of Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana, Pratik Gandhi shares his journey from the occasional stage appearances to being the lead in plays, TV shows and movies.
While our guest needs no introduction, but we're going to give her the spotlight anyway - the one and only powerhouse of talent, Shikha Talsania! In a candid conversation with Akarsh Khurana, uncover the untold stories, the behind-the-scenes tales, and her incredible journey in the entertainment industry.
About Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana
Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana is India’s first theatre podcast brought to you by Aadyam Theatre, An Aditya Birla Group Initiative. Listen in to conversations with actors, writers, directors, and more. We'll chat about their careers, their creative process and definitely some interesting stories. We'll explore what it takes to make it in this challenging yet rewarding business and how these talented people have managed to do it. Remember to subscribe and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. https://www.youtube.com/@AadyamTheatre/podcasts
Unscripted with Akarsh Khurana is a English arts & books podcast from Aadyam Theatre. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.
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