Beyond Borders Podcast

Aakriti Dhawan
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  • SOCIETY & CULTURE

I Ask The Tough Question So You Don't Have To Beyond Borders Podcast is a global affairs and culture podcast hosted by Aakriti Dhawan — an Indian journalist based in Germany. Each week, we dive into thought-provoking conversations on politics, gender, media, identity, cross-cultural relations, and entertainment — through stories that challenge narratives and push beyond comfort zones. This podcast explores what it really means to go beyond borders — geographically, politically, and personally. I ask the tough questions so you don't have to. If you’re curious about the world and unafraid of tough questions, this is your space. Follow and subscribe to join a growing global community of listeners thinking outside the box. #BeyondBordersPodcast#GlobalAffairs#PoliticalPodcast#Geopolitics#CurrentAffairs#CulturePodcast#MediaAndPolitics#WomenInMedia#IdentityPolitics#DiasporaVoices#IndianInGermany#CrossCultural#JournalismMatters#GlobalConversations#PodcastCommunity

  1. Coming Out at 50: Rewriting Life, Identity and Truth | Raga D’Silva

    1D AGO

    Coming Out at 50: Rewriting Life, Identity and Truth | Raga D’Silva

    Women's Day Special: Raga D'silva shares her journey of coming out in her late 40s, navigating stigma, resilience, and ultimately embracing her truth. From surviving trauma and discrimination to building platforms like Speaking Minds and Older Queer Voices, Raga's story is one of courage, feminism, and advocacy. LETS CELEBRATE TOGETHER This episode discusses themes including abuse, identity, violence, and personal transformation. Some listeners may find parts of this conversation emotionally sensitive. 00:00 – Introduction 01:15 – Coming out at 49: the first public declaration 04:30 – Labels: lesbian, bisexual, or simply authentic 07:20 – Early struggles, family trauma, and stigma in New Zealand 12:45 – Balancing career achievements with identity 16:30 – Founding Speaking Minds and the power of storytelling 21:00 – Feminism explained: etiquette vs. equality 26:15 – Resilience against hate and online abuse 30:40 – Creating Older Queer Voices podcast 35:00 – Reflections on living two lives and embracing truth 38:20 – Advice for anyone going beyond borders #LGBTQPodcast #womensday #feminism #strong #abuse #cominghout #marriage #women #indianwomen #freedom #lgbtq #community

    39 min
  2. Award- Winning Filmmaker on Trans Lives in India, Belonging, Gender Identity & the British Lens | Meera Darji

    FEB 20

    Award- Winning Filmmaker on Trans Lives in India, Belonging, Gender Identity & the British Lens | Meera Darji

    Beyond Borders Podcast X Birmingham City University, Aakriti Dhawan sits down with an award-winning filmmaker and Senior Lecturer at BCU, Meera Darji for a powerful conversation on the lived realities of India’s trans community — the search for belonging, the gaps in public understanding of gender, and the impact of viewing Indian trans identities through a Western/UK lens. The discussion explores how conversations around gender in India are often shaped either by silence or by imported frameworks that don’t always reflect local histories and cultural contexts. From identity and visibility to policy, media narratives, and everyday belonging, this episode examines what gets misunderstood — both within India and abroad. This is a nuanced, honest conversation about community, dignity, and the need to build gender awareness beyond binaries and beyond borders. Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/1iCK3rTLGlE?si=VjMg2_ArWwpmqfQD Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyond_borderspod/ Apply Podcast: #TransCommunity #LGBTQIndia #GenderIdentity #TransRights #Belonging #QueerVoices #India #BeyondBorders

    22 min
  3. “Our People Are Buried Under the Debris” | Palestinian Ambassador on Reconstruction & India’s Role

    FEB 17

    “Our People Are Buried Under the Debris” | Palestinian Ambassador on Reconstruction & India’s Role

    In this episode of Beyond Borders Podcast X The Wire, Aakriti Dhawan speaks with the Palestinian Ambassador to India, Abdullah Abu Shawesh, on the humanitarian devastation in Gaza, the politics of “ceasefire,” and the role of international actors. The Ambassador challenges the language used around the conflict, shares personal accounts from his family in Gaza, and outlines the scale of destruction — with reconstruction estimated at $57 billion. The conversation also examines India’s position on the two-state solution, its diplomatic leverage with Israel, divisions within Palestinian politics, and whether meaningful peace is still possible. Referencing international law, UN Resolution 181, and global anti-colonial struggles, this interview brings a direct Palestinian perspective to Indian audiences in an urgent and deeply political moment Youtube: https://youtu.be/ISlqktwPyqI?si=RTafpN6SMY146cIy . #beyondborderspodcast #Gaza #GazaWar #Palestine #IsraelPalestine #HumanitarianCrisis #Ceasefire #TwoStateSolution #MiddleEast #IndiaForeignPolicy #GlobalPolitics #WarInGaza / @thewirenews

    54 min
  4. Anjali Gopalan on LGBTQ+ Rights, HIV Myths & Why India Is Failing Its Citizens

    FEB 15

    Anjali Gopalan on LGBTQ+ Rights, HIV Myths & Why India Is Failing Its Citizens

    In this powerful episode of Beyond Borders Podcast, Aakriti Dhawan sits down with Anjali Gopalan — founder of the NAZ Foundation and one of India’s most prominent human rights activists, and All creatures great and small — for an unfiltered conversation on LGBTQ+ rights, HIV stigma, animal welfare, and the state of citizenship in India. From the fight to decriminalize Section 377 to the ongoing denial of marriage and inheritance rights, Anjali explains why decriminalisation was only the beginning — not the victory. She challenges the idea that LGBTQ+ rights are a “Western ideology,” calls HIV a “virus of blame,” and breaks down persistent myths that still exist decades later. 00:00:00 - 00:01:27 Introduction 01:28 - 04:09 Founding the NAZ Foundation and Decriminalizing Section 3 7:35 The Fight for LGBTQ+ Rights and Societal Misconceptions 11:20 NAZ Foundation's Continued Efforts and the Denial of Citizen Rights 13:00 Misconceptions and Prevention of HIV 15:00 HIV Transmission, Prevention, and the Virus of Blame 17:00 HIV Treatment, Myths, and the Role of Counselling 18:30 Support for Children with HIV and Commitment to Prevention 20:00 Hope and Government Support for HIV Treatment 22:00 Transition to Animal Welfare: All Creatures Great and Small 24:00 Challenges Facing Animal Shelters and the Sanctuary Approach 28:00 Recommended Shelters and the Subjectivity of "Good" and "Bad" 30:00 Concerns about the Supreme Court and Animal Welfare 36:00 Class, Caste, and Societal Attitudes 38:40 Recognition as a Top 100 Influential Person 40:00 The Amalgamation of HIV with LGBTQ 46:00 Cultural Pressures and the Acceptance of Sexuality 50:00 Overcoming Paralysis and Focusing on Small Actions 52:00 Advice for anyone going beyond borders Anjali also reflects on being named one of the world’s most influential people, why she believes no act of giving is truly selfless, and why helping even one person — or one animal — is enough. This is a conversation about rights, responsibility, and refusing to stay silent. 🎧 Listen on Spotify & all audio platforms 📲 Follow Beyond Borders for weekly conversations that challenge comfort zones. #AnjaliGopalan #LGBTQRights #Section377 #HIVAwareness #AnimalRights #HumanRights #BeyondBorders #nazfoundation #india #podcast Disclaimer: This content is created for entertainment and conversational purposes only. We do not intend to hurt, offend, or target any individual or group. All views expressed are respectful and considerate. Aakriti Dhawan is a journalist and storyteller bridging India and Germany. Her podcast brings raw, thoughtful conversations on politics, gender, culture, animals, and the world we live in. #BeyondBordersPodcast#PodcastForChange#InspiringStories#WomenEmpowerment#IndoGerman#GlobalPerspectives#conversation Youtube: https://youtu.be/bqiTVev_Elw?si=7NVqlr4Oqq8ojFbQ #Indiansingermany#AnimalWelfareIndia#MeaningfulConversations 🔔 Subscribe for more 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1YR7... 📲 Follow us on Instagram: / beyond_borderspod

    53 min
  5. Indian Olympian Reetika Hooda Speaks Out on Doping Allegations, Wresting & Paris Olympics

    JAN 17

    Indian Olympian Reetika Hooda Speaks Out on Doping Allegations, Wresting & Paris Olympics

    In this episode, we dive into the extraordinary journey of Reetika Hooda, an Indian Olympian who turned struggle into strength and dreams into global recognition. She speaks about competing at the World Championships and making history as the first Indian woman wrestler to qualify in the heavyweight category for the Paris Olympics 2024. She also opens up about the ongoing doping allegations, the pressure of being prematurely labelled a failure, and the intense scrutiny created by sections of the Indian media and fellow sportspersons. Watch now. 00:00 intro 1:20 journey to becoming a wrestler 15:00 Advice for anyone wanting to go beyond borders ✨ Routing for her journey to Los Angeles 2028. 📌 Watch till the end to feel the motivation, understand the reality of Indian athletics, and get inspired by a true sporting warrior. 👍 Like | 💬 Comment | 🔔 Subscribe If you believe in Indian sports and Olympic dreams, this story is for you. Disclaimer: This content is created for entertainment and conversational purposes only. We do not intend to hurt, offend, or target any individual or group. All views expressed are respectful and considerate. Aakriti Dhawan is a journalist and storyteller bridging India and Germany. Her podcast brings raw, thoughtful conversations on politics, gender, culture, animals, and the world we live in. #BeyondBordersPodcast#PodcastForChange#InspiringStories#WomenEmpowerment#IndoGerman#GlobalPerspectives#conversation#ReetikaHooda #OlympianJourney #RoadToLA2028 #IndianAthletics #OlympicDream #StruggleToGlory #PremanandMaharajJi #SportsMotivation #AthleteLife #IndiaAtOlympics #Indiansingermany#AnimalWelfareIndia#MeaningfulConversations 🔔 Subscribe for more 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1YR7... 📲 Follow us on Instagram: / beyond_borderspod

    17 min
  6. दर्द, डर और हिम्मत | Acid Attack Survivor Roopa Speaks Out | X TheMooknayak

    12/21/2025

    दर्द, डर और हिम्मत | Acid Attack Survivor Roopa Speaks Out | X TheMooknayak

    This episode is not about pity. It’s about listening. In this conversation, Roopa shares her journey as an acid attack survivor — the pain, the fear, and the courage it takes to live every day in a society that often looks away. Roopa is an Indian acid attack survivor from Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, who was attacked at the age of 15. The incident left her with severe facial injuries and long-term emotional trauma. Despite immense challenges, she chose to rebuild her life with courage and determination. Today, she works at Sheroes Hangout Café, a café run by acid attack survivors. Through her work, she promotes awareness, independence, and hope for other survivors. Disclaimer: This content is created for entertainment and conversational purposes only. We do not intend to hurt, offend, or target any individual or group. All views expressed are respectful and considerate. Aakriti Dhawan is a journalist and storyteller bridging India and Germany. Her podcast brings raw, thoughtful conversations on politics, gender, culture, animals, and the world we live in. #BeyondBordersPodcast#PodcastForChange#InspiringStories#WomenEmpowerment#IndoGerman#GlobalPerspectives#conversation #Indiansingermany#AnimalWelfareIndia#MeaningfulConversations 🔔 Subscribe for more 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1YR7... 📲 Follow us on Instagram: / beyond_borderspod

    27 min
  7. How Much Power Does RELIGION Hold in India Today? Ft. Sabah Khan

    12/12/2025

    How Much Power Does RELIGION Hold in India Today? Ft. Sabah Khan

    What does it mean to be a minority in India today? Is religion becoming the core of identity—for Hindus and Muslims? And why are safe spaces for women and marginalized communities more important than ever? In this episode of Beyond Borders, Aakriti Dhawan sits down with Sabah Khan—feminist activist, founder of Guftagoo, and co-founder of the NGO Parcham. From creating safe spaces for women to fighting majoritarian hate, Saba shares her front-line perspective on rising polarization, ghettoisation, and the shrinking idea of a secular India. We talk about: – Why Guftagoo was created exclusively for women – How Parcham uses football to unite communities – Whether India is becoming more divided – The political narrative around Muslims – Forgotten Muslim freedom fighters – What a just, secular India could look like – Advice for young people who want to “go beyond the border” 00:00 – Introduction 00:45 – Why she created Guftagoo: a safe space for women 02:00 – Why women need a place to “just be” without judgment 03:00 – How the community responded to Guftagoo 03:40 – The origin of Parcham & working with minorities 04:50 – Segregation and ghettoisation in cities like Bombay & Mumra 06:00 – Using football to bring Muslims and non-Muslims together 06:45 – Has religious division worsened in the last decade? 07:30 – Rising impunity & impact on Muslim identity 08:20 – Hijab, identity, and the politics of fear 09:10 – “Why don’t Muslims move to Islamic states?” — Responding to the narrative 10:15 – Forgotten Muslim freedom fighters & contributions to India 11:20 – The original idea of secular India 12:10 – Hate against minorities: Muslims, Dalits, Christians 13:00 – What Parcham wants India to look like in the next 5 years 14:00 – Advice to young people: “Your silence will not protect you” Disclaimer: This content is created for entertainment and conversational purposes only. We do not intend to hurt, offend, or target any individual or group. All views expressed are respectful and considerate. Aakriti Dhawan is a journalist and storyteller bridging India and Germany. Her podcast brings raw, thoughtful conversations on politics, gender, culture, animals, and the world we live in. #BeyondBordersPodcast#PodcastForChange#InspiringStories#WomenEmpowerment#IndoGerman#GlobalPerspectives#conversation#India #ReligionInIndia #IndianPolitics #MinorityRights #MuslimIdentity #HinduMuslim #WomensRightsIndia #FeminismIndia #SafeSpaces #SecularIndia #BeyondBordersPodcast #AakritiDhawan #SabaKhan #Indiansingermany#AnimalWelfareIndia#MeaningfulConversations 🔔 Subscribe for more 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1YR7... 📲 Follow us on Instagram: / beyond_borderspod

    16 min
  8. To Be or Not To Be... In Bollywood Ft. Scriptwriter Mayukh Ghosh

    12/05/2025

    To Be or Not To Be... In Bollywood Ft. Scriptwriter Mayukh Ghosh

    In Episode 25 of our Beyond Border Podcast, we’ve with us Filmfare Award-winning Scriptwriter Mayukh Ghosh. In our conversation, he opens up about his remarkable journey into the world of writing, reflecting on the fateful twists that led him to the industry. Mayuk also shares his experiences within the Hindi Film industry, working with acclaimed artists like Nawazuddin and Sudhir Mishra, and offers his candid views on pressing topics like the rise of women-centric stories, the shifting landscape, and the challenging dynamics of contemporary Bollywood. Catch us for a fun and deep-insightful conversation with our esteemed guest! Time codes: 1:09 the conversation starts 1:26 - about being a writer/director in the Hindi Film Industry 1:52 - getting into the industry 2:53 - what writers in Hindi Film Industry lack 3:57 - Reasons why Bollywood isn’t succeeding post covid 6:31 - Women-centric films and commercialization 8:16 - Factors That Affect Writing 9:31 - What Bollywood Lacks (talks about 2 things one is X-factor) 11:22 - Current Projects 12:56 - Funny Incident on the set 14:02 - Advice On going beyond borders Disclaimer: This content is created for entertainment and conversational purposes only. We do not intend to hurt, offend, or target any individual or group. All views expressed are respectful and considerate. Aakriti Dhawan is a journalist and storyteller bridging India and Germany. Her podcast brings raw, thoughtful conversations on politics, gender, culture, animals, and the world we live in. #BeyondBordersPodcast#PodcastForChange#InspiringStories#WomenEmpowerment#IndoGerman#GlobalPerspectives#conversation #Indiansingermany#AnimalWelfareIndia#MeaningfulConversations 🔔 Subscribe for more 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1YR7... 📲 Follow us on Instagram: / beyond_borderspod

    15 min
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About

I Ask The Tough Question So You Don't Have To Beyond Borders Podcast is a global affairs and culture podcast hosted by Aakriti Dhawan — an Indian journalist based in Germany. Each week, we dive into thought-provoking conversations on politics, gender, media, identity, cross-cultural relations, and entertainment — through stories that challenge narratives and push beyond comfort zones. This podcast explores what it really means to go beyond borders — geographically, politically, and personally. I ask the tough questions so you don't have to. If you’re curious about the world and unafraid of tough questions, this is your space. Follow and subscribe to join a growing global community of listeners thinking outside the box. #BeyondBordersPodcast#GlobalAffairs#PoliticalPodcast#Geopolitics#CurrentAffairs#CulturePodcast#MediaAndPolitics#WomenInMedia#IdentityPolitics#DiasporaVoices#IndianInGermany#CrossCultural#JournalismMatters#GlobalConversations#PodcastCommunity

Information

  • Creator
    Aakriti Dhawan
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    32
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Aakriti Dhawan
  • Show Website
    Beyond Borders Podcast