Postcards

Nikunj Agarwal
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  • Politics
  • Updated Biweekly

Postcards, Your passport to all things people, policy, and politics! Postcards is a platform dedicated to discussing topics often overlooked or underrepresented in mainstream media. Each episode is a one-on-one journey with a guest, designed to engage everyone—from policy experts to those simply curious about the world around them. Dive into conversations that amplify unheard voices, explore transformative ideas, and spark meaningful change.

Episodes

  1. May 3

    To be Seen, to be Heard : Trans Lives with Pratyay Malakar | Ep #9

    What does it mean to not be recognised in law, and still be expected to survive in everyday life? In this episode of Postcards, we explore the journey of trans rights in India, from community-led movements and the landmark NALSA judgment to the growing gap between recognition and lived reality. We talk about everyday experiences across healthcare, education, employment, and social stigma, and unpack why policy continues to fall short even after years of legal progress. We also explore questions of intersectionality, internal hierarchies, and who gets seen, heard, or left out within the community itself. As the episode builds, we turn to the recent amendment bill and what it means for recognition, dignity, and the future of trans rights in India, especially for those who are now at risk of being excluded altogether. This conversation is not just about law. It is about lived experience, memory, and what it truly means to design policy that centers dignity. 💬 Have thoughts or questions? Leave them in the comments. We would love to hear from you.

    1h 15m

  2. Apr 13

    Deconstructing Delhi: History, Heritage and Everyday Life With Dr. Swapna Liddle | Episode #8

    In this episode of the Postcards Podcast, we journey through Delhi not simply as a city, but as a living archive shaped by memory, migration, power, and everyday life.The conversation with historian Dr. Swapna Liddle traces Delhi through its many layered histories, from Shahjahanabad and colonial New Delhi to the city’s contemporary questions of heritage, belonging, and transformation. We reflect on how monuments, neighbourhoods, maps, and forgotten stories continue to shape the way Delhi is lived and understood.We also explore the politics of conservation, the tensions between preservation and redevelopment, and how culture survives through food, language, music, and public memory. The episode further opens up questions of inclusion and exclusion, asking how women, queer communities, and marginalised groups experience the city differently, and what it means to truly belong to a place that is always changing.This episode invites listeners to see Delhi not as a fixed past, but as a city constantly rewritten through memory, access, and imagination.📍 Recording Date: 29th November📌 Don’t miss this episode! Subscribe, share, and join us as we walk through the many cities, memories, and futures that make Delhi what it is.🔗 To access episode transcripts, explore our events and community, and learn more about Postcards, visit the link below: https://postcards-community.notion.site/Episode-8-Deconstructing-Delhi-with-Dr-Swapna-Liddle-340d561a65a280f69565f3bd8cc9eced?pvs=74Team🎙️ Host: Natasha🎤 Guest: Dr. Swapna Liddle📖 Research: Natasha🎬 Production: Natasha, Elvis, Deeksha📝 Mentors: Shaiza, Shafali, ShaleenEnquiries, contact us at : postcards.inbox@gmail.com

    1h 9m

  3. Mar 29

    The People's Constitution: Unpacking its past and present #7

    In this episode of the Postcards Podcast, we explore the idea of a “people’s constitution” not just as a legal text, but as a living framework shaped by history, power, and everyday life.The conversation revisits the Constituent Assembly and Drafting Committee, reflecting on whose voices shaped the Constitution and whose were left out. We discuss the role of women, the meaning of constitutional morality in practice, and how secularism functions as a lived sentiment rather than just a principle.We also examine caste and economic inequality, and how structural disparities continue to challenge the Constitution’s promise of equality.This episode invites listeners to see the Constitution not as distant or abstract, but as something constantly negotiated in society today.📍 Recording Date: 17th JanuaryTo know more about us and what Postcards represents, visit the link below:EnquiriesContact us at postcards.inbox@gmail.com0:00:00 - introduction 0:01:25 - welcome note0:03:19 - introducing the speaker 0:10:41 - explaining the constitution to a 7 year old0:13:31 - the constitutional debates 0:19:00 - the vision of the drafting committee 0:19:30 - debates that stand out 0:22:49 - how did the general public start engaging with the newly formed constitution0:28:24 - anxieties that still linger0:35:29 - role of Dr. Ambedkar 0:45:26 - socio-economic inequalities 0:48:46 - women in the constituent assembly0:54:13 - countries without a constitution1:01:30 - constitutional amendments1:05:28 - the role of courts1:05:55 - explaining basic structure doctrine to a 7 year old1:21:30 - informal labour workforce 1:28:25 - negotiations for equal access1:33:04 - how should students discuss the constitution1:52:54 - recommendations2:02:09 - postcards to future self2:05:18 - speaker's note2:05:50 - outro

    2h 8m

  4. 11/29/2025

    Nothing About Us, Without Us: Disability Rights in the Classroom | Postcards Series | #06

    When a child enters a classroom, they bring their ways of seeing, sensing, moving, and being in the world. For children with visible and invisible disabilities, the classroom can become a site of immense opportunities or exclusion. It is not the diagnosis but the everyday barriers, the unspoken biases, and the absence of support that shape their experience of learning and belonging. Postcards brings to you yet another compelling episode which sheds light on disability rights, inclusive education, and the power of centering lived experience. At the intersection of identity, policy, and community, this episode reminds us that inclusion is not an add-on; it is a fundamental right. In this episode, Nikunj talks to Pratik Agarwal, Executive Director at ASTHA Foundation, where we explore what it truly means to build classrooms that don’t just accommodate but embrace every child. Pratik takes us through the layered realities of disability in India, highlighting how systems can transform when they begin by listening to those most impacted. As we follow his journey into the field, we unfolded the stories, struggles, and solidarities that define the disability movement during the course of the episode. He reflects on: 1. The personal motivation that led him to work in the disability sector and the communities that shaped his path. 2.  The policy gaps and resources allocated for an equitable model for a child.  3. The critical role of parents and communities in advocating for and nurturing children with disabilities. 4. The promise and pitfalls of AI and assistive technologies, and how tech must be guided by ethics, accessibility, and lived experience. This episode urges listeners to recognize the everyday forms of exclusion that go unnoticed, and to imagine schools where every child’s dignity, agency, and potential are honored. Hi and welcome to Postcards—your passport to people, policy, and politics! We're a platform dedicated to spotlighting issues often overlooked or underrepresented in mainstream discourse. With a commitment to amplifying diverse voices and lived realities, we offer systemic insight into unseen perspectives and unheard stories. 📅 Recording Date: 8th November 2025  📌 Don’t miss this episode! Subscribe, share, and join the dialogue. Because inclusion isn’t charity but  justice. 🔗 To access episode transcripts, explore our events and community, and learn more about Postcards, visit the link below: https://postcards-community.notion.site/postcards101?pvs=74

    1h 41m

  5. 04/19/2025

    Hidden struggles of refugees and the fight for dignity with Roshan Melwani | Postcards Series | #05

    "When you have to move out of your childhood home and find yourself in a new place, it is not just the physical home you have left behind but many small aspects of it that you have stepped away from.” It is not just the walls but the daily comforts, the echoes of memories and the space of safety that made it ‘home’. Postcards brings to you yet another powerful episode on displacement and rehabilitation. At the intersection of displacement, gender and climate change, the episode discusses how migration is not just one linear story. In this evocative episode, we explore the layered realities of displacement and rehabilitation with Roshan Melwani, a policy officer, fierce human rights advocate and refugee lawyer. Roshan takes us through the ‘in-between’ spaces that define the refugee experience. These ‘half-spaces’, as he calls them, are filled with uncertainty, instability, and quiet endurance. As we follow Roshan’s journey of navigating the ‘spectrum of grey’ we unpack what it means to belong when your sense of home is continually in flux. His story weaves through themes of loss, identity, mistrust, and the emotional toll of navigating unfamiliar terrains — all while carrying the weight of systemic exclusion. He voices out: 1. The experience of discomfort that he felt growing up as a person who had to constantly move due to socio-economic and cultural factors. 2. How a sense of community and belongingness helped in creating a safe space for him. 3. The challenges of social acceptance and unfairness faced by asylum seekers. 4. The economic benefits that refugees bring to the country and 5. How international collaboration and reorientation of policy structures and legal systems could help address the holistic needs of refugees. This episode urges listeners to expand their empathy, listen deeply, and to make space for stories from those who come from different walks of life. Hi and welcome to Postcards- your passport to people, policy and politics! We're a platform dedicated to discussing topics often overlooked or underrepresented in mainstream media. With a commitment to amplifying diverse voices and perspectives, we offer a systemic insight into unseen voices and unheard stories. 📅 Recording Date: March 3rd 2025 📌 Don’t miss this episode! Subscribe, share, and join the dialogue. Because seeking safety is a right, not a privilege. To know more about us and what Postcards represents, visit the link below: 🔗 https://postcards-community.notion.site/postcards101 Team 🎙 Host: Nikunj Agarwal  🎤 Guest: Roshan Melwani  📖 Research: Manya Trivedi 🎬 Production: Arjun S R, Sukhman Sandhu, Ayush Verma 📱 Social Media: Anjali Luthra, Vedita Saraswat , Zainab Qureshi 🌍 Community: Nandini Bhusri, Suneha Majumder 📝 Content & Media Mentors: Shaiza, Shafali Chadha, Chanty Tieb

    1h 45m

  6. 02/22/2025

    Pehchaan: A Story of Identity, Love, and Intersectionality in Feminism with Disha Sethi | Postcards Series | #04

    Pehchaan: A Story of Identity, Love, and Intersectionality in Feminism 🎙 What does feminism truly stand for in an era of growing polarization? Who gets to define it, and who gets left out? In this episode of Postcards, we sit down with Disha Sethi, a fierce advocate for intersectional feminism, to unravel the complexities of gender justice in a world shaped by caste, class, and culture. From historic struggles to modern-day activism, from misconceptions about feminism to the fight for true inclusivity—we explore how gender equality intersects with deeper social structures. Disha sheds light on: ✅ The real meaning of intersectional feminism✅ How caste, religion, and socio-economic status shape gender struggles✅ The challenges of making feminism inclusive for queer and disabled individuals✅ The role of men in dismantling patriarchal structures✅ How grassroots movements are reclaiming feminism from elite spaces 🔥 Expect thought-provoking insights, untold histories, and a conversation that challenges the mainstream narrative on feminism. 📅 Recording Date: 8th February 2025 📌 Don’t miss this episode! Subscribe, share, and join the dialogue. Because feminism isn’t just for some—it’s for everyone. To know more about us and what Postcards represents, visit the link below: https://postcards-community.notion.site/postcards101 Team Host: Nikunj Agarwal Guest: Disha Sethi Research: Vanshika, Gizelle, Aaliya, Isha Production: Arjun, Ayush Social Media: Anjani, Mehak, Anjali, Samruddhi Community: Manya , Sukhman Content & Media Mentors: Shaiza, Shafali, Chanty #PostcardsPodcast #IntersectionalFeminism #GenderJustice #InclusiveFeminism #SocialEquity #EqualityForAll

    1h 18m

  7. 02/08/2025

    Behind the Green Curtain: Climate Policy and Social Equity with Lucilla Dias | Postcards Series | #3

    🌿 Behind the Green Curtain: Climate Policy and Social Equity 🎙 Who really benefits from climate policies? Who gets left behind? In this episode of Postcards, we pull back the curtain on the intersection of climate action and social justice with Lucilla Dias, a passionate advocate for environmental equity. From carbon markets to greenwashing, from frontline communities to corporate accountability—we unpack how policies meant to save the planet can sometimes deepen inequalities. Lucilla shares eye-opening insights on: ✅ How climate policies impact marginalized communities ✅ The hidden costs of green transitions ✅ The power dynamics in global climate negotiations ✅ The role of grassroots movements in shaping a just future 🔥 Expect bold insights, real stories, and a deep dive into the fight for a fair and sustainable world. 📅 Recording Date: 25th December 2025 📌 Tune in now on Spotify and be part of the conversation! Let’s rethink climate policy together—because a greener future starts with justice for all. 🌍✨ To know more about us and what Postcards represents, visit the link below: https://postcards-community.notion.site/postcards101 Team Host: Nikunj Agarwal Guest: Anish Gawande Research: Vanshika, Gizelle, Aaliya, Isha Production: Arjun, Ayush Social Media: Anjani, Mehak, Anjali, Samruddhi Community: Manya Content & Media Mentors: Shaiza, Shafali, Chanty Music- 1. Epic Inspirational Hip-Hop by Infraction [No Copyright Music] / Motivation Creator- Infraction - No Copyright Music

    1h 42m

  8. 01/25/2025

    Staying in the Shadows: Women Beyond the Formal Economy with Sanchita Mitra | Postcards Series | #02

    🎙 In this episode of Off-the Clock: Women in Labour, we’re joined by Sanchita Mitra, the National Coordinator for SEWA Bharat, to explore the critical role of women in India’s workforce and the systemic barriers they face. Through powerful stories and expert insights, this conversation reveals why empowering women in labour isn’t just about equity—it’s about driving economic transformation, uplifting communities, and ensuring dignity for millions working in the informal sector. 📅 Recording Date: 11th June 2024 💡 What You’ll Discover: - The realities and challenges faced by women in India's informal workforce. - How SEWA Bharat is creating a lasting impact through grassroots organising. - Key strategies and policy shifts needed for a more equitable workspace. - Inspiring stories of resilience and change led by women on the ground. This episode is a must-watch for anyone passionate about gender equality, labour rights, and building a better future for all. 📌 Join the Conversation: Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe and hit the bell icon for more insightful discussions on policy, society, and the power of collective action. Share your thoughts below—together, we can amplify the movement for change! To know more about us and what Postcards represents, visit the link below: https://postcards-community.notion.site/postcards101 Team Host: Nikunj Agarwal Guest: Anish Gawande Research: Vanshika, Gizelle, Aaliya, Isha Production: Arjun, Ayush Social Media: Anjani, Mehak, Anjali, Samruddhi Community: Mohana, Manya Mentor for the Episode: Disha Sethi Content & Media Mentors: Shaiza, Shafali, Kritika, Divyangana, Vrinda, Chanty Intro and Outro Music- 1. Epic Inspirational Hip-Hop by Infraction [No Copyright Music] / Motivation Creator- Infraction - No Copyright Music Show notes and other sources: Joan is okay by Weike Wang https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55333768-joan-is-okay We are poor but we are so many by Ela Bhatt https://amzn.in/d/2MoKbVM Becoming by Michele Obama https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/38746485-becoming The Intern (2015) https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2361509/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk The Devil wears Prada (2006) https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0458352/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk

    1h 38m

  9. 01/11/2025

    Rainbow Resilience: Navigating Queerness with Anish Gawande | Postcards Podcast | #01

    In the very first episode of the Postcards Podcast, our host dives into a compelling conversation with Anish Gawande, a Rhodes Scholar, LGBTQ+ activist, National Spokesperson of NCP-SP, and Founder of Pinklist India, and more! This enlightening discussion explores the evolving landscape of queerness in 2024, the impact of political policies on marginalized communities, and the importance of allyship in building an inclusive society. Anish delves into pivotal topics like queer representation in media, the interplay between politics and identity, and the fight for equal rights, all while sharing his vision for a progressive future. This episode is not just a conversation—it’s a journey into the heart of what it means to create change and build understanding in today’s world. 📅 Recording Date: 9th June 2024 #QueernessIn2024 #AnishGawande #PostcardsPodcast #LGBTQVoices #IdentityAndCulture Enquiries Contact us at postcards.inbox@gmail.com. (FOR FULL LINKED SHOW NOTES, GO TO https://postcards-community.notion.site/postcards101) Also checkout! Nielsen: The Push for Change- Examining LGBTQ+ representation in media and advertising by Nielsen Supreme Court Refuses To Recognize Same-Sex Marriages, Asks Union Govt To Form Committee To Determine Rights Of Queer Unions Supreme Court’s same-sex marriage verdict acts as a formidable document upholding the Indianness of homosexuality and gender queernessViolence against LGBTQI+ people – A hidden pandemic Feminism In India Article - Intimate Partner Violence In Queer Relationships: Voices from Urban Queer IndiaPride 2023.  Beyond Pride Month, what are Indian companies doing for queer employees?Instagram Reel by Anish Bhagat : Queer influencer on brands during Pride Month Queer 365: how to progress LGBTQ+ initiatives beyond Pride.Nikunj Agarwal’s LinkedIn Post: Brands being called out by Gender Pay Gap Bot on Women’s Day Other Media: Lee Mokobe’s Poem: https://www.themarginalian.org/2016/05/02/lee-mokobe-transgener-poem/ Alice Walker's 'The Colour Purple' https://amzn.in/d/2XVzWDW The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo- Fiction https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32620332-the-seven-husbands-of-evelyn-hugo Badnaam Basti (1971) https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0370319/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk My Brother Nikhil (2005) https://youtu.be/rx_RaUS3YMc?si=3cqYKiNokqr_qKMr

    2h 2m

  10. Season 1 Trailer

    Postcards - Your Passport to People, Policy, and Politics

    Welcome to Postcards—your passport to the unseen intersections of people, policy, and politics. Hosted by Nikunj, this podcast is your platform for thought-provoking conversations, diving into topics often overlooked or underrepresented in mainstream media. In our very first episode, we’re joined by Anish Gawande, National Spokesperson for the NCP-SP and co-founder of Pink List India, as we explore queerness, identity, and the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in a post-377 India. But that’s just the start! Future episodes will feature Sanchita Mitra, discussing women’s labor rights and workplace equality, and Lucilla Dias, offering insights on climate policy and privilege. Get ready for unfiltered discussions that challenge perspectives, spark ideas, and inspire action. Postcards launches January 11, 2025, on Spotify. Hit follow, stay tuned, and join us for this exciting journey!

    1 min

Trailer

About

Postcards, Your passport to all things people, policy, and politics! Postcards is a platform dedicated to discussing topics often overlooked or underrepresented in mainstream media. Each episode is a one-on-one journey with a guest, designed to engage everyone—from policy experts to those simply curious about the world around them. Dive into conversations that amplify unheard voices, explore transformative ideas, and spark meaningful change.

Information

  • Creator
    Nikunj Agarwal
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Nikunj Agarwal
  • Show Website
    Postcards