Know Time

Know Time

For the ones curious about the world and everything in it, but have know time. Join me on my quest to share stories from people of all fields, and hopefully learn a bit more about space, science, technology, philosophy, culture, history, movies, music or sport.

  1. 18 hr ago

    #189: Black Holes, String Theory, Quantum Physics & Gravity ft. Shiraz Minwalla

    What happens when the laws of quantum physics meet the most extreme objects in the universe? In this episode of Know Time, theoretical physicist Shiraz Minwalla takes us deep into the world of black holes, quantum mechanics, string theory, quantum gravity, and the fundamental structure of reality. We explore some of the biggest questions in modern theoretical physics: What actually happens inside a black hole? Why is it so difficult to reconcile quantum mechanics with Einstein’s theory of general relativity? Could string theory provide a path toward a theory of quantum gravity? And what can black holes teach us about space, time, information, and the universe itself? Shiraz Minwalla is a leading theoretical physicist whose work spans string theory, quantum field theory, gravity, black holes, and mathematical physics. In this conversation, he explains these difficult ideas in an accessible way while exploring where our understanding of fundamental physics currently stands. Topics covered include: • Black holes and the black hole information paradox • Quantum mechanics and general relativity • String theory and quantum gravity • Quantum field theory • The nature of space and time • Hawking radiation • The holographic principle • The AdS/CFT correspondence • What happens inside black holes • The deepest unanswered questions in theoretical physics 🎙️ Guest: Shiraz Minwalla 🎧 Podcast: Know Time 📺 Episode: Know Time 189 Shiraz: https://www.infosysprize.org/laureates/2013/shiraz-naval-minwalla.html SUPPORT: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/knowtime Anchor: https://anchor.fm/knowtime/support Youtube Membership: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ-937lA3_s2g5AxdpKQjVg/join Merch: https://know-time-shop.fourthwall.com/ PODCAST: Anchor: https://anchor.fm/knowtime Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2CjRJPktODLDeHavCNDLGA Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/know-time/id1535371851?uo=4 CONNECT: Youtube: Subscribe! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/knowtimetofly/ Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/shalajlawania/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/knowtimetofly Twitter (Personal): https://twitter.com/shalajlawania Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/knowtimetofly Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/knowtimetofly/ Merch: https://know-time-shop.fourthwall.com Blog: http://www.sadisticshalpy.com/ Producer & Host: Shalaj Lawania TIMELINE 0:00 Trailer 1:35 Introduction 2:37 What Is A Black Hole? 11:29 The Black Hole Information Paradox 22:53 Shiraz’s Journey 28:38 Timing & Luck in Physics & Academia 33:43 Anti-de Sitter Space, Conformal Field Theory & AdS/CFT Correspondence 50:59 Information Realism 54:30 Fluid Dynamics & Black Holes 1:06:19 What is String Theory & Quantum Gravity? 1:17:40 The Anthropic Principle 1:19:44 String Theory & Reality 1:26:25 Addressing Criticisms of String Theory 1:36:14 Lego, Mystery, Legacy & Meaning of Life #physics

    #189: Black Holes, String Theory, Quantum Physics & Gravity ft. Shiraz Minwalla
  2. 5 days ago

    #188: Comedy 101, Sketches, MTV India & Acting ft. Cyrus Sahukar

    How did Cyrus Sahukar become one of India’s most recognizable comedy and television personalities? In this episode of Know Time, Cyrus Sahukar talks about the fundamentals of comedy, sketch comedy, acting, and his journey through MTV India. Cyrus discusses the art of making people laugh, creating memorable characters and sketches, the influence of MTV on Indian youth culture, and what he has learned about acting and performance over the years. From comedy and improvisation to sketch writing, television, and acting, this conversation explores the craft behind one of India’s most versatile entertainers. Watch the full conversation with Cyrus Sahukar on Know Time. Cyrus: https://www.instagram.com/cyrus_sahukar/?hl=en SUPPORT: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/knowtime Anchor: https://anchor.fm/knowtime/support Youtube Membership: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ-937lA3_s2g5AxdpKQjVg/join Merch: https://know-time-shop.fourthwall.com/ PODCAST: Anchor: https://anchor.fm/knowtime Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2CjRJPktODLDeHavCNDLGA Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/know-time/id1535371851?uo=4 CONNECT: Youtube: Subscribe! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/knowtimetofly/ Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/shalajlawania/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/knowtimetofly Twitter (Personal): https://twitter.com/shalajlawania Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/knowtimetofly Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/knowtimetofly/ Merch: https://know-time-shop.fourthwall.com Blog: http://www.sadisticshalpy.com/ Producer & Host: Shalaj Lawania TIMELINE 0:00 Trailer 1:40 Introduction 3:08 Purpose of Comedy 14:00 Cyrus’ Journey 21:14 Comedy 101: Ignorance & Naivety 25:35 Exploring Identity 29:42 The Evolution of Indian Comedy 33:11 MTV India 38:27 Comedy 101: Sketches, Parodies & Spoofs 43:54 How To Be Funny on Camera? 48:34 Hosting vs. Acting 51:50 Acting Prep 1:02:39 Lego & Inspirations (Books, Movies, Role Models) 1:06:54 Legacy & Meaning of Life #indiancomedy

    #188: Comedy 101, Sketches, MTV India & Acting ft. Cyrus Sahukar
  3. 3 Sept

    #187: Telecom, ATMs, Indian Startups & Rural Development ft. Ashok Jhunjhunwala

    How did India build affordable telecom, ATMs and technology for rural communities, and what can India’s startup ecosystem learn from that experience? In this episode of Know Time, Ashok Jhunjhunwala, one of India’s leading technology innovators and researchers, discusses the stories behind some of his most important innovations and his broader vision for using technology to solve India’s biggest development challenges. We explore the evolution of Indian telecom, the story of CorDECT and Wireless in Local Loop, and how affordable communications technology helped connect rural India. Jhunjhunwala also shares the story of GramaTeller ATMs, designed to make banking technology more affordable and accessible in villages and smaller towns. The conversation goes beyond individual technologies to examine rural development, frugal innovation, Indian startups, entrepreneurship, technology transfer, IITs, research and commercialization, and why India needs to build more technologies specifically for its own needs. What does it take to turn research into real-world impact? Why do some Indian innovations succeed while others struggle to scale? And how can India create a stronger ecosystem connecting universities, researchers, startups and industry? A wide-ranging conversation about technology, entrepreneurship, innovation and building for India. Subscribe to Know Time for long-form conversations with scientists, entrepreneurs, artists, academics and other fascinating thinkers. Ashok: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashok-jhunjhunwala-4b273b181/ SUPPORT: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/knowtime Anchor: https://anchor.fm/knowtime/supportYoutube Membership: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ-937lA3_s2g5AxdpKQjVg/join Merch: https://know-time-shop.fourthwall.com/ PODCAST: Anchor: https://anchor.fm/knowtime Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2CjRJPktODLDeHavCNDLGA Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/know-time/id1535371851?uo=4 CONNECT: Youtube: Subscribe! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/knowtimetofly/ Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/shalajlawania/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/knowtimetofly Twitter (Personal): https://twitter.com/shalajlawania Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/knowtimetofly Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/knowtimetofly/ Merch: https://know-time-shop.fourthwall.com Blog: http://www.sadisticshalpy.com/ Producer & Host: Shalaj Lawania TIMELINE 0:00 Trailer 1:50 Introduction 3:34 Ashok’s Journey & Motivation 15:21 License Raj & Hindu Rate of Growth 20:04 Developing Telecom for Indian Villages 25:08 Meeting Sam Pitroda 28:14 Developing Affordable ATMs for Indian Villages 32:12 Story of IIT Madras Research Park 39:44 The Problems with Incubators 44:42 Are IITs Underdelivering? 48:42 The Problems with IITs 50:50 Vision For India56:28 Lego Interpretation 1:01:51 Inspirations, Legacy & Meaning of Life #india #startupindia #startup

    #187: Telecom, ATMs, Indian Startups & Rural Development ft. Ashok Jhunjhunwala
  4. 30 Aug

    #186: Acting Techniques 101, Basics & Bollywood ft. Gulshan Devaiah

    Gulshan Devaiah breaks down the craft of acting: from the fundamentals of performance and character-building to the acting techniques that help actors create believable, memorable characters. In this conversation, Gulshan Devaiah discusses acting techniques, the basics every aspiring actor should understand, his approach to preparing for roles, and what it takes to succeed as an actor in Bollywood and Indian cinema. A candid masterclass on acting, filmmaking, performance, and the realities of working in the Hindi film industry. Whether you're an aspiring actor, film student, Bollywood fan, or simply interested in how great performances are created, this episode offers practical insights into the art and craft of acting. 🎙️ Guest: Gulshan Devaiah 🎧 Know Time with Shalaj Lawania, Episode 186 Gulshan: https://www.instagram.com/gulshandevaiah78/ SUPPORT: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/knowtime Anchor: https://anchor.fm/knowtime/support Youtube Membership: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ-937lA3_s2g5AxdpKQjVg/join Merch: https://know-time-shop.fourthwall.com/ PODCAST: Anchor: https://anchor.fm/knowtime Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2CjRJPktODLDeHavCNDLGA Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/know-time/id1535371851?uo=4 CONNECT: Youtube: Subscribe! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/knowtimetofly/ Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/shalajlawania/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/knowtimetofly Twitter (Personal): https://twitter.com/shalajlawania Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/knowtimetofly Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/knowtimetofly/ Blog: http://www.sadisticshalpy.com/ Producer & Host: Shalaj Lawania TIMELINE 0:00 Trailer 1:38 Introduction 2:50 The Love For Cinema 8:01 Nature vs. Nurture 13:55 Acting 101: Basics 19:43 Acting 101: Costume, Make-Up, Physicality & Props 27:31 Making of Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota 34:43 Making of Badhaai Do 38:21 Acting 101: Breaking Rhythm 44:06 Making of 4-Cut Atmaram from Guns & Gulaabs 50:05 Preparation Techniques & Flow State 54:11 Playing Negative Roles 1:00:48 The Power of Cinema 1:04:25 Timing, Destiny & Luck 1:10:30 Taking Risks 1:14:18 PR, Networking & Social Media in Bollywood 1:25:39 Lego, Inspirations, Legacy & Meaning of Life #bollywood

    #186: Acting Techniques 101, Basics & Bollywood ft. Gulshan Devaiah
  5. 27 Aug

    #185: Data 101, Indian Journalism & Statistics ft. Rukmini S.

    What can data really tell us about India? In Know Time 185, journalist and author Rukmini S explains the basics of data, statistics and data journalism, and how numbers shape the way we understand India. Rukmini S discusses how to interpret statistics, the importance of reliable data in journalism, how data can be misunderstood or misrepresented, and what journalists and audiences should look for when evaluating claims about India's economy, population, crime, inequality and society. This conversation is a practical introduction to data journalism and statistics in India, and why understanding numbers is essential for understanding the country. Subscribe to Know Time for long-form conversations with leading thinkers, journalists, scientists, artists and public figures. Rukmini: https://x.com/Rukmini?lang=en SUPPORT: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/knowtime Anchor: https://anchor.fm/knowtime/support Youtube Membership: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ-937lA3_s2g5AxdpKQjVg/join Merch: https://know-time-shop.fourthwall.com/ PODCAST: Anchor: https://anchor.fm/knowtime Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2CjRJPktODLDeHavCNDLGA Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/know-time/id1535371851?uo=4 CONNECT: Youtube: Subscribe! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/knowtimetofly/ Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/shalajlawania/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/knowtimetofly Twitter (Personal): https://twitter.com/shalajlawania Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/knowtimetofly Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/knowtimetofly/ Blog: http://www.sadisticshalpy.com/ Producer & Host: Shalaj Lawania TIMELINE 0:00 Trailer 1:23 Introduction 2:47 Case Study: Crimes Against Women in India 6:50 Rukmini’s Journey 12:41 Facts vs. Feelings 18:46 Case Study: Who Is Actually Middle Class in India? 21:00 Data vs. Human Psychology 24:02 The Loss of Context & Nuance in Data 29:21 Case Study: The Problems With Data in India 35:16 Who Gets To Create Data? 39:28 The Problems With Data Presented by AI Models 44:15 Data & Politics 52:18 Politics, Media & Journalism 59:24 Lego, Inspirations, Legacy & Meaning of Life #data #journalism #india

    #185: Data 101, Indian Journalism & Statistics ft. Rukmini S.
  6. 23 Aug

    #184: Filmmaking 101, Acting, Bollywood & Activism ft. Nandita Das

    Nandita Das takes us inside the world of filmmaking, acting, Bollywood, storytelling and activism in this wide-ranging conversation on Know Time. What does it really take to make a film? Nandita breaks down the fundamentals of filmmaking and acting, from physicality and performance to props, character and the collaborative nature of cinema. She also explores the relationship between art and economics, whether every film needs to have a social message, and the responsibilities of artists in an increasingly divided world. We discuss the craft of acting, the purpose of cinema, filmmaking as a form of activism, and why stories can influence the way we understand society and ourselves. Topics covered: • Filmmaking 101 • Acting fundamentals, physicality & props • The craft of storytelling • Art vs. economics in cinema • Should every film have a social message? • Cinema, activism & social responsibility • The role of artists in society • Bollywood and the film industry • Nandita Das on making meaningful cinema Subscribe to Know Time for conversations with fascinating people across cinema, culture, science, politics, business and beyond. Nandita: https://www.instagram.com/nanditadasofficial/?hl=en SUPPORT: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/knowtime Anchor: https://anchor.fm/knowtime/support Youtube Membership: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ-937lA3_s2g5AxdpKQjVg/join Merch: https://know-time-shop.fourthwall.com/ PODCAST: Anchor: https://anchor.fm/knowtime Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2CjRJPktODLDeHavCNDLGA Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/know-time/id1535371851?uo=4 CONNECT: Youtube: Subscribe! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/knowtimetofly/ Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/shalajlawania/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/knowtimetofly Twitter (Personal): https://twitter.com/shalajlawania Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/knowtimetofly Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/knowtimetofly/ Blog: http://www.sadisticshalpy.com/ Producer & Host: Shalaj Lawania TIMELINE 0:00 Trailer 1:54 Introduction 3:27 Nandita’s Journey 12:10 Nature vs. Nurture 21:53 Acting 101: Basics, Physicality & Props 32:43 Acting 101: Playing Negative Roles 38:24 Safdar Hashmi & Jan Natya Manch 42:48 Does Every Film Need To Send A Message? 49:12 The Power of Movies 55:05 Who Creates Stories? 1:00:10 Filmmaking 101: Silence & Slow Builds 1:06:02 Art vs. Economics 1:10:40 Role PR, Marketing & Networking 1:14:48 Inspirations (Books, Movies, Role Models), Legacy & Meaning of Life #bollywood

    #184: Filmmaking 101, Acting, Bollywood & Activism ft. Nandita Das
  7. 15 Aug

    #183: Political Theory, Hindutva, Indian Nationalism & Philosophy ft. Jyotirmaya Sharma

    What is nationalism? How did the modern idea of India emerge? What is Hindutva and Hindu nationalism, and how does it differ from Indian nationalism? In this episode of Know Time, scholar Jyotirmaya Sharma explores the history of political ideas that have shaped modern India. The conversation examines the origins of nationalism, the intellectual foundations of Hindutva, the evolution of Indian political thought, the role of religion in politics, identity, secularism, democracy, and the debates that continue to influence India's future. Whether you're interested in political theory, Indian history, philosophy, or contemporary politics, this episode offers a thoughtful and nuanced discussion on some of the most important ideas of our time. Topics covered: What is nationalism? The origins of the modern nation-state Hindutva and its intellectual rootsIndian nationalism and identityReligion and politics Secularism and democracy Political philosophy The future of India Subscribe to Know Time for long-form conversations with leading thinkers, scientists, authors, athletes, and innovators from around the world. Jyotirmaya: https://socialsciences.uohyd.ac.in/polscience/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2020/06/Jyotirmaya-Sharma.pdf SUPPORT: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/knowtime Anchor: https://anchor.fm/knowtime/support Youtube Membership: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ-937lA3_s2g5AxdpKQjVg/join Merch: https://know-time-shop.fourthwall.com/ PODCAST: Anchor: https://anchor.fm/knowtime Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2CjRJPktODLDeHavCNDLGA Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/know-time/id1535371851?uo=4 CONNECT: Youtube: Subscribe! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/knowtimetofly/ Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/shalajlawania/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/knowtimetofly Twitter (Personal): https://twitter.com/shalajlawania Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/knowtimetofly Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/knowtimetofly/ Blog: http://www.sadisticshalpy.com/ Producer & Host: Shalaj Lawania TIMELINE 0:00 Trailer 1:48 Introduction 3:27 Does Every Nation Need A Core? 17:35 Jyotirmaya’s Journey 25:36 Political Theory 101: Is Nationalism A Social Construct? 31:50 Discipline, Punishment & Knowledge 45:51 Spirit of a Nation 1:07:10 Hindu Nationalism 1:40:25 The Beauty of Religion 1:49:05 Great Man Theory vs. Historical Materialism 2:00:18 Lego, Inspirations, Legacy & Meaning of Life #politics #indianpolitics #hindutva

    #183: Political Theory, Hindutva, Indian Nationalism & Philosophy ft. Jyotirmaya Sharma
  8. 9 Aug

    #182: Chennai History, Architecture, Tamil Nadu Politics & Culture ft. Sriram V

    Explore the fascinating history, architecture, and politics of Chennai (Madras) with Sriram V on Know Time Episode 182. From the origins of Madras under the British East India Company to the city's incredible architectural heritage, Dravidian identity, and political movements that shaped Tamil Nadu, this conversation uncovers the many layers behind one of India's most historic cities. Sriram V shares insights into Chennai's colonial buildings, Tamil culture, urban transformation, cinema, Dravidian politics, and how the city evolved from a trading settlement into a global metropolis. Discover the stories behind Fort St. George, Indo-Saracenic architecture, Chennai's neighborhoods, and the cultural forces that continue to define Tamil Nadu. If you love Indian history, Chennai heritage, architecture, Tamil Nadu politics, urban development, and cultural storytelling, this episode offers a deep dive into the soul of Chennai. 🎙️ Featuring: Sriram V 📍 Know Time Episode 182 Sriram: https://www.instagram.com/originalmadrasmobile/?hl=en SUPPORT: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/knowtime Anchor: https://anchor.fm/knowtime/support Youtube Membership: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ-937lA3_s2g5AxdpKQjVg/join Merch: https://know-time-shop.fourthwall.com/ PODCAST: Anchor: https://anchor.fm/knowtime Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2CjRJPktODLDeHavCNDLGAApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/know-time/id1535371851?uo=4 CONNECT: Youtube: Subscribe! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/knowtimetofly/ Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/shalajlawania/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/knowtimetofly Twitter (Personal): https://twitter.com/shalajlawania Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/knowtimetofly Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/knowtimetofly/ Blog: http://www.sadisticshalpy.com/ Producer & Host: Shalaj Lawania TIMELINE 0:00 Trailer 1:50 Introduction 2:57 The History of the Origins of Madras 11:30 Sriram’s Journey 21:22 Chennai vs. Madras: The Name Controversy 24:00 Religious Monuments of Chennai 35:47 The Story of Chepauk Palace 42:57 Chennai Architecture 49:21 History of Tamil Nadu Politics 1:01:33 Water Dispute1:09:01 Chennai’s Role in India 1:17:10 Conservation 1:20:40 Lego, Inspirations, Legacy & Meaning of Life #chennai #tamilnadu #history

    #182: Chennai History, Architecture, Tamil Nadu Politics & Culture ft. Sriram V

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For the ones curious about the world and everything in it, but have know time. Join me on my quest to share stories from people of all fields, and hopefully learn a bit more about space, science, technology, philosophy, culture, history, movies, music or sport.

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