The Witness is a podcast series that explores diverse and complex issues that our world faces today. From politics and social justice to environmental concerns and technological advancements, we aim to bring you insightful conversations and perspectives on the most pressing issues of our time. Our guests come from a wide range of backgrounds and expertise, each with a unique insight into the challenges facing our world. Through their stories and experiences, we hope to provide a deeper understanding of these complex issues and inspire meaningful dialogue and action.

In this episode of The Witness, I talk with writer Dr. David Maughan Brown about his experiences under apartheid in South Africa. Through his memoir Despite the Darkness, David shares stories of resistance and the fight for justice against oppression. We discuss the links between past struggles and current human rights issues. This episode provides a powerful story of hope and courage, making it essential listening for anyone looking for inspiration in tough times.

In this episode I continue my conversation with Sohrab Hura and explore the profound impact of images on our memories, emotions, society, politics and perceptions of reality. We talk about how curated and manipulated photos on social media shape our understanding of the world and our place within it. Sohrab, a distinguished photographer and painter, joins me to discuss the power of images, both beautiful and haunting. He shares his journey from photography to painting, driven by a desire to tell stories that challenge the idealized narratives we often encounter. Through this conversation, we explore the deeper implications of how images influence not just our personal memories but also our collective understanding of history, politics, society, and human rights.

In the first episode of our three-part series, we sit down with ⁠Sohrab Hura⁠, an acclaimed photographer from New Delhi, India, and a full member of Magnum Photos. Sohrab’s work delves into the complexities of identity, emotion, and the human experience, challenging the conventions of traditional photography. We explore the power of photography as a storytelling medium, the political dimensions embedded within images, and the fascinating interplay between personal and global narratives. From documenting his mother’s life to capturing the enchantment of snowfall in Kashmir, Sohrab’s journey and insights offer a thought-provoking exploration of visual storytelling.

Do you know how it is to have been displaced by conflicts, losing your family members to a civil war and struggling to become a journalist? Join us as we delve into the extraordinary journey of ⁠Abdalle Ahmed Mumin⁠, a resilient journalist and human rights advocate from Somalia. Through candid conversations, Abdalle shares his firsthand experiences growing up in a displacement camp in Mogadishu, where he witnessed the devastating impact of violence and conflict. Despite personal tragedy, including the loss of his brother and sustaining life-altering injuries, Abdalle remains unwavering in his commitment to championing justice and freedom of expression.

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In the second part of this Podcast exploring Kashmir Pandit question, I continue my conversation with Kapil Kak and ask him questions about the role of narratives and discourses that have shaped this issue, the road ahead and the way forward. We also talk about the rising majoritarianism across India. 

In this two part series, I will delve into the untold stories and experiences of the Kashmiri Pandit community, their migration from Kashmir, their struggle and the politics that revolves around this issue. In our first episode of the series on Kashmir Pandit question, I have the privilege of having Mr. Kapil Kak, Ex Air Vice-Marshal of India with me, Kapil is a Kashmiri Pandit with an intensive knowledge on the issue. 

I have the honour of speaking with Naseh Shaker, a courageous Yemeni journalist based in the heart of Sanaa. My discussion with Naseh centers around the profound impacts of the ongoing conflict in Yemen, the complex dynamics of peace negotiations, and the path forward towards a lasting peace in this war-torn nation.

In this episode, I delve into the pressing matter of freedom of press and speech in the contested region of Kashmir and India as a whole. Join this captivating conversation with Anuradha Bhasin, the Executive Editor of Kashmir Times, who will provide us with an in-depth analysis and personal experiences from the front lines of journalism in one of the world’s most complex regions. Prepare to explore the challenges, triumphs, and ongoing struggles faced by journalists and media organizations, as they strive to navigate the delicate balance between reporting the truth and facing the repercussions of their work.

In the second episode, I continue my conversation with Sahar Vardi, an esteemed activist based in Jerusalem. In this episode, we delve into a myriad of complex topics, including nationalism, Zionism, racism, the arms industry, the Palestinian occupation, and the concept of militarized societies. With Sahar’s invaluable insights, we hope to gain a deeper understanding of these pressing issues and their impact on society.

In this episode of The Witness, I speak to Sahar Vardi, a Jersualem based activist. We dive into Sahar’s personal journey and how growing up in Jeruslaem inspired her activism against the occupation. We also discuss her involvement in the Israeli refusal movement and her work around the human rights violations associated with the Israeli arms export industry.