Paani with People

In this fourth episode of Paani with People, I sit down with Neeraj Shetye - a policy professional at the Oxford India Centre, former election fieldworker, conflict studies graduate, and someone deeply reflective about power, identity, and belonging.We talk about growing up in Thane, moving out at 17, navigating language shifts from Marathi to Hindi to English, and studying politics of conflict and justice at SOAS. Neeraj shares what it was like working on the ground during Indian state elections - witnessing intimidation, rural political ecosystems, and the realities you only understand when you are physically there.The conversation moves through Hindu nationalism, social policy, queer identity, migration, family, and the complicated question many of us carry: Do we go back home, or do we build a life where we feel safest?We also talk about overcommitting, learning to say no, calling parents once a week for four hours, and what it means to be rooted in language even when you are geographically elsewhere.This episode is layered, honest, and had layered giggles sandwiched between valuable conversations!

In this episode of Paani with People, I sit down with Sahreen Shamim for a deeply honest, wide‑ranging conversation about identity, agency, and the quiet weight women carry through life.We talk about growing up in Kashmir, navigating marriage on her own terms, moving across cities and countries, and what it really took to get to Oxford through crowdfunding. Sahreen reflects on privilege, guilt, ambition, and the invisible pressures that come with success. The conversation moves through work culture, mental health, anxiety, decision‑making, and the long journey of unlearning self‑doubt.This is not a polished success story. It’s a raw reflection on becoming — with all the contradictions, fears, and courage that come with it.Guest referred by Manzer from the last episode!

In the very first episode of Paani with People, we sit down with Kanika Joshi, a dynamic development sector professional, dancer, and optimist. From her early days as a performer to becoming a published author and global changemaker, Kanika opens up about her journey across countries, ideas, and identities.They talk about the complexities of the development sector, the politics of privilege, the reality of burnout, and the pursuit of balance in a world that rewards extremes. The conversation flows through joy, fear, ambition, and love - with reflections on personal growth, long-term relationships, and choosing courage despite doubt.This is a story about choosing to show up - again and again - with your full self.🔗 Plus, Kanika recommends the next guest in this ever-growing chain of conversations.