News Broadcasting
Barun Das outshines himself on his Duologue show
MUMBAI: The highly anticipated third series of ‘Duologue with Barun Das’ returns to News9 with acclaimed filmmaker Kiran Rao leading the season premiere on 22nd February 2025. The programme, which has established itself as a cornerstone for intellectual discourse, features TV9 Network’s Managing Director and CEO Barun Das in conversation with thought leaders from various spheres.
In this opening episode, Rao, known for her distinctive filmmaking style, offers a penetrating analysis of contemporary Indian cinema and its evolving narrative landscape. She particularly emphasises the transformation of storytelling in the digital age, noting that “we are all storytellers in some way, thanks to social media. It’s an interesting world to be telling stories in.”
The filmmaker presents a candid assessment of Bollywood’s post-pandemic challenges, highlighting the industry’s need to recalibrate its approach. “We were perhaps a little complacent, assuming people would return to theatres regardless of what we made. That’s no longer the case”, she reflects, pointing to the significant impact of streaming platforms on audience expectations and reach.
The conversation takes a compelling turn as Rao addresses profound social issues, particularly focusing on gender dynamics in Indian society. She delivers a pointed critique of institutional biases, highlighting how women’s identities are often legally tethered to their male relatives. “Even today, legal documents link women’s identities to the men in their lives – as someone’s wife or daughter. That needs to change”, she asserts.
Rao also challenges prevailing societal narratives about women’s roles, particularly the glorification of multitasking. She presents a thought-provoking perspective on unpaid domestic labour, questioning the sustainability of current social structures if women were to fully enter the workforce.
Das, reflecting on the episode, praises Rao’s ability to weave complex social themes into accessible discourse. “Her ability to weave profound social themes into storytelling is remarkable”, he notes, emphasising how the conversation embodies the programme’s mission to challenge established perspectives.
The Oscar-nominated director reciprocated the praise, describing the interview as “one of the most engaging and enriching conversations” she’s experienced. She particularly noted Das’s ability to introduce fresh perspectives, teasing viewers with mention of “a formula that I am going to remember for life”, the details of which will be revealed in the broadcast.
The two-part season premiere will air on News9 at 22:00 on consecutive evenings, 22 and 23 February 2025, promising viewers an intellectual feast of ideas spanning cinema, society, and cultural evolution. The programme continues its tradition of fostering nuanced dialogue on pressing contemporary issues, making it a must-watch for audiences seeking thoughtful discourse on the intersection of art, society, and media.
News Broadcasting
Kamlesh Singh receives Haldi Ghati Award from MMCF
India Today Group editor honoured for three decades of journalism at Udaipur ceremony.
MUMBAI- Kamlesh Singh just turned a lifetime of sharp words into a shiny shield because when journalism wakes up a society, even the Maharana of Mewar wants to pin a medal on it.
The Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation (MMCF) conferred its prestigious Haldi Ghati Award on Kamlesh Singh, a senior editor at the India Today Group, during a ceremony in Udaipur on 15 March 2026. The national award, instituted in 1981-82, recognises “work of permanent value that initiates an awakening in society through the medium of journalism.”
Singh, who leads several editorial initiatives including Aaj Tak Radio, the Teen Taal community and The Lallantop, was presented the honour by Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar, Managing Trustee of MMCF. The citation highlighted his three decades of contributions to Indian media, innovations in digital journalism, mentoring young reporters, and his popular podcast persona “Tau” on Teen Taal, which fosters thoughtful public discourse.
The Haldi Ghati Award, named after the historic Battle of Haldighati symbolising valour and resilience, is one of four national awards given annually by MMCF. Past recipients include Tavleen Singh, Piyush Pandey and Raj Chengappa.
Other honourees this year included Padma Vibhushan Pt Hari Prasad Chaurasia, Vedamurti Devvrat Rekhe, Treeman of India Marimuthu Yoganathan, Vir Chakra Capt Rizwan Malik, and US-based researcher Molly Emma Aitken, who received the Colonel James Tod Award for contributions to understanding Mewar’s spirit and values.
In an era where headlines often shout louder than substance, the MMCF quietly reminded everyone that real journalism isn’t about noise, it’s about the quiet, persistent work that stirs society awake, one thoughtful story at a time.
