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Filmmaker Mira Nair Talks Denzel, Creative Instinct, More
26:52||Season 1In this episode, Masaba Gupta sits down with the legendary filmmaker Mira Nair—known for masterpieces like Monsoon Wedding, Salaam Bombay, and Mississippi Masala—to explore the artistry, inspiration, and instinct behind her globally celebrated work. From drawing cinematic magic out of real-life stories to discovering talent in unexpected places, Nair reflects, in this 2022 conversation, on how her journey has been shaped by India’s vibrancy, the truth of cinema verité, and how she works with talent--from big names like Denzel Washington, Reese Witherspoon, Uma Thurman to people she discovered and cast based on instinct. In fact, preserving one's instinct is a distinct value of Nair's, and is a throughline to this conversation.
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Mallika Dua, Accidental Comedian
43:43||Season 1Actor and comedian Mallika Dua talks with Masaba Gupta about her training as an actor, and why she calls herself an accidental comedian. The duo compare notes on the perils of creating content for social media platforms, and the future of the Internet. Plus Mallika shares the importance of mental health in her life, including her approach to dealing with personal loss.Maitreyi Ramakrishnan is Devi in Many Ways
40:01||Season 1Masaba Gupta sits down with Never Have I Ever star Maitreyi Ramakrishnan to discuss navigating fame, embracing her cultural identity, and Hollywood’s evolving approach to diversity and representation. An actor who champions inclusivity—especially for South Asian voices—and inspires audiences worldwide, Maitreyi talks about the lasting influences Hermione Granger has had on her, and shares insights on staying grounded. Plus, a funny a tip for keeping your cool around celebrities. "My job has made me mature faster... but I still cherish being young and carefree." This conversation was recorded in 2023.Mental Health Champion Neerja Birla
31:26||Season 1Encore episode! Masaba Gupta sits down with Dr. Neerja Birla—educator, philanthropist, and business leader—for an inspiring conversation about balancing personal and professional roles, her love for exploring India on two wheels, and her thoughtful approach to parenting. Dr. Birla shares her unwavering commitment to mental health advocacy and the transformative work of her organizations in creating widespread awareness. With wisdom passed down from her family, she reflects on the profound importance of building and nurturing relationships, the challenges of maintaining them, and the lasting value of bridges built with care and intention.When Marriages Aren't Made in Heaven, Mrinalini Deshmukh Can Help
31:09||Season 1Masaba Gupta talks to the iconic lawyer Mrinalini Deshmukh, who has handled the divorce cases of multiple Bollywood celebrities, as well as multiple other family law cases. She and Masaba take some deep dives on topics such as: navigating one’s emotions while practicing law, changing familial trends of the Indian society, the burden of her perception of being a tough taskmaster, the importance of sensitivity in practicing family law, and her abiding interest in studying politics.
Gupta and Gupta
40:27||Season 1['Best of' Episode] Masaba Gupta talks to her mother and co-star (in the series Masaba, Masaba), Neena Gupta. The iconic actor talks about the journey of her career–from humble beginnings in theatre, to her breakout roles, to succeeding in the film industry without mentors. She reflects on creating a strong sense of purpose in life, and the difference between popularity and success. Plus: Neena Gupta gives her take on the hot button issue of nepotism in Bollywood.
Mithali Raj on Empowering Leadership
44:39||Season 1[REPLAY: In honor of the legendary player's birthday, listen back to this inspiriing episode.] Masaba Gupta talks to the Indian cricketer Mithali Raj about her philosophy on leadership, and why being an empathetic leader is so important. The accomplished athlete describes her admiration for cricketer Sachin Tendulkar and cricket coach Ricky Ponting. Plus, she reflects on the timely topic of equal pay for men and women cricketers. Raj also reveals what she does to calm her nerves in tense moments during a match.