Kiran Rao began her career as an assistant director on the iconic film Lagaan and later went on to direct Dhobi Ghat (2010) and the critically acclaimed box office success Laapataa Ladies (2024). She graduated with a degree in Economics from Sophia College for Women, Mumbai, in 1995, and later pursued her Master’s at AJK Mass Communication Research Center, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Kiran Rao delves into the intricacies of storytelling, the impact of cinema on our lives, and how films can be a powerful tool for messaging. She also shares her perspective on patriarchy, emphasising how men can be its victims.

She also opens up about her divorce from Aamir Khan, highlighting the mutual respect and strong bond they continue to share. More on the creative challenges in filmmaking and how she deals with an industry dominated by men.

00:00 - Introduction

02:27 - Movie Ticket Tax Row

06:55 - The Art of Storytelling in Bollywood

17:15 - Commercial Success vs. Critical Acclaim

23:12 - The Auditioning Process in Bollywood

24:54 - Working with Naseeruddin Shah

27:47 - Collaborating with Ashutosh Gowariker

28:52 - How SRK Behaves on Set

29:50 - Memories from Jamia University Days

32:39 - Women in a Male-Dominated Industry

38:49 - South Indian Films vs. Bollywood

48:25 - Laapataa Ladies vs. Animal

50:21 - Are Films Being Over-Promoted?

57:15 - Nupur’s Wedding

59:12 - Marriage & Divorce with Aamir Khan

01:02:45 - Nostalgic Memories from Dil Chahta Hai