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Tag: Audible

  • Honour India’s freedom fighters with these must-watch films and audiobooks

    Honour India’s freedom fighters with these must-watch films and audiobooks

    MUMBAI: Martyrs’ Day commemorates the valour of Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev Thapar, and Shivaram Rajguru, who gave their lives for India’s independence. Their unwavering defiance against British rule and deep commitment to the nation continue to inspire generations.

    To honour their legacy, here are six impactful audiobooks and films that bring their ideals, struggles, and sacrifices to life. This Shaheed Diwas, immerse yourself in these stirring accounts of India’s fight for freedom.

    To listen

    Why I Am an Atheist and Other Works (Audible)

    A compelling collection of Bhagat’s writings, offering a rare insight into his revolutionary mind. From challenging religious faith to defending his beliefs in the face of death, this audiobook sheds light on his intellect and unwavering spirit.

    Jail Diary of Bhagat Singh (Audible)

    During his final months, Bhagat penned thoughts on socialism, freedom, and revolution, drawing inspiration from Lenin, Tagore, and Ghalib. His diary presents a deeply philosophical and intellectual perspective beyond the legend.

    Without Fear (Audible)

    Authored by Kuldip Nayar, this audiobook explores Bhagat beyond his martyrdom his ideology, vision for an egalitarian society, and the betrayals that shaped his fate. A powerful listen that redefines his legacy.

    To watch

    The Legend of Bhagat Singh (Amazon Prime video)

    Starring Ajay Devgn, this gripping retelling follows Bhagat’s journey from witnessing the Jallianwala Bagh massacre to his fearless acts of defiance, culminating in his execution on 23 March 1931.

    23 March 1931 Shaheed (Amazon Prime video)

    Bobby Deol portrays Bhagat Singh in this powerful film that chronicles his response to Lala Lajpat Rai’s death, his ultimate sacrifice, and how it fuelled the independence movement.

    Rang De Basanti (Netflix)

    A modern-day tribute, this film follows a group of university students who, while portraying freedom fighters, realise their own role in fighting injustice today. Featuring Aamir Khan, it questions the true meaning of patriotism.

    This Martyrs’ Day, remember the heroes who shaped India’s destiny through these moving stories that continue to inspire.

     

  • Audible and Disney launches new kid-focused audio originals: Frozen, Cars & Star Wars

    Audible and Disney launches new kid-focused audio originals: Frozen, Cars & Star Wars

    Mumbai: Audible, Inc., the creator and provider of premium audio storytelling, and Disney Publishing released three new Audible Originals today from Disney’s Frozen, Disney & Pixar’s Cars, and Star Wars, in addition to 60 audiobooks featuring stories including Finding Dory, Marvel’s Avengers, Monsters, Inc., Mulan, and Toy Story. All of these offerings are available today exclusively on Audible at audible.com.

    Today’s three Audible Originals feature multiple Disney character voices and immersive sound design. The titles include:

    1   Star Wars: Padawan’s Pride

    Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi and his Padawan Anakin Skywalker star in this thrilling galactic adventure set three years after the events of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace. When a Republic spy goes missing on the Moons of Varl, the Jedi Council asks Obi-Wan and Anakin to infiltrate an underground podracing circuit run by a crime boss believed to be holding the spy prisoner. Master and apprentice must use all their Jedi skills in this action-packed tale of cutthroat competition, deadly deception, and, ultimately, what it means to be a Padawan. Recommended for ages 8–12. Written by Bryan Q. Miller.

    2   Disney Frozen: Olaf’s Quest

    Olaf, Arendelle’s adorable snowman, loves to read. One day, an unexpected message leads Olaf and his friends Anna, Kristoff, and Sven on a quest for a place known as Haus Biblio, described as a “sea of stories.” Join the group’s journey as they cross over mountains, search for monsters under bridges, and have conversations with friendly sheep. Recommended for ages 6–8. Written by Suzanne Francis.

    3   Disney Pixar Cars: The Legend of the Crystal Hubcap

    Best friends Lightning McQueen and Mater are on the road to attend Mater’s sister’s wedding across the country when they accidentally find themselves at the legendary Cave of the Crystal Hubcap. Legend has it, that whoever gazes into this hubcap becomes the luckiest racer in the world. Mater thinks the hubcap would make the perfect wedding gift and heads into the cave in search of it with Lightning—when it comes to treasure hunting, sometimes friendships are the greatest treasures of all. Recommended for ages 3–5. Written by Steve Behling.

    Rachel Ghiazza, Chief Content Officer at Audible, said: “As a customer-obsessed company, we know our devoted listeners want to share their love of audio with the children in their lives. We believe imagination is at the core of family entertainment, which Disney has championed as an industry leader for generations. We’re honoured to collaborate with Disney to bring smiles to kids’ faces when they hear the swoosh of Obi-Wan Kenobi’s lightsaber or the squeal of Lightning McQueen’s tires. New audio adventures begin today, and we can’t wait to share what’s in store over the next few years.”

    Disney Publishing’s Tonya Agurto, Senior Vice President of New IP and Global Business Development said, “Kids-targeted audio experiences connect families, spark imagination, and foster a life-long love of storytelling. Disney Publishing is delighted to bring original and enchanting stories to Audible listeners which span beloved franchises and characters across Disney Frozen, Pixar and Star Wars.”

    This new content follows Audible’s global launch of Kids Profiles. In this new, kid-friendly listening space on Audible, parents can easily share audio titles with children, delighting their little ones while ensuring that audio content can be enjoyed in a parent-controlled environment right from the Audible app. Children will only be able to see and listen to titles shared with them. For instructions on how to create a Kids’ Profile and additional information, click here.

    The Disney titles join a quickly expanding offering of family listening content on Audible including Pottermore Publishing’s complete Harry Potter collection and the forthcoming full-cast audio productions of the original Harry Potter stories; Sesame Workshop’s The Sesame Street Podcast with Foley and Friends (Seasons 1-3) and Ready, Set, Ride with Elmo; Hasbro’s Peppa Pig’s Play-A-Long Podcast; Nickelodeon’s Are You Afraid of the Dark? The Official Podcast; Letters from Camp (Seasons 1-3), produced and performed by Jamie Lee Curtis and an all-star cast; KIDZ BOP Never Stop, from the #1 music brand for kids; and more. Audible’s production and development deals include collaborations with top industry creatives such as President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama’s Higher Ground, Kerry Washington’s Simpson Street, Daniel Dae Kim’s 3AD Productions, Lorne Michaels’ Broadway Video Enterprises, and James Patterson Entertainment.

  • Marvel Entertainment and Audible reveal season trailer for Marvel’s Wastelanders: Doom

    Marvel Entertainment and Audible reveal season trailer for Marvel’s Wastelanders: Doom

    Mumbai: Audible, a producer and provider of premium audio content, has revealed the trailer for the upcoming release of the fifth season of the Hindi Audible Original podcast series Marvel’s Wastelanders.

    The superheroes have fallen and the supervillains have risen to power. Doctor Doom is out for revenge and he now rules with an iron fist. But resistance stirs in the shadows, as our Super Heroes unite as the fate of humanity hangs in the balance. Voiced by Ashish Vidyarthi as Doctor Doom and Yashaswini Dayama as Valeria, listeners will be drawn into the post-apocalyptic world.

    The fifth season in the series, Marvel’s Wastelanders: Doom, launches on 4 September 2024. Marvel’s Wastelanders is the first collaboration between Audible and Marvel Entertainment and Marvel’s Wastelanders: Doom, A Hindi Audible Original will be released next month with top-quality production, featuring renowned and high-profile actors in the roles of Marvel’s legendary Super Heroes.

    The six-season audio epic originally launched as an English language series in June 2021. The English language version of Marvel’s Wastelanders: Doom was written by Mark Waid and James Kim, story by Mark Waid. Original sound design and music by Mark Henry Phillips.

    Marvel’s Wastelanders, a Hindi Audible Original podcast series

  • Six audiobooks & films celebrating sibling bonds

    Six audiobooks & films celebrating sibling bonds

    Mumbai: On this Rakshabandhan, let’s celebrate the bonds we share with our first friends and lifelong confidants—our siblings. From playful fights and pranks to sharing secrets and protecting each other from parents, these connections are the foundation of our lives. Today, immerse yourself in the magic of sibling relationships with audiobooks and films that explore this special bond. Whether it’s the inspiring journey of the Chopra brothers in Brotherhood on Audible or the emotional ups and downs of Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham on Netflix, these stories remind us of the enduring power of sibling love. After all, who knows us better than those we’ve shared laughter, tears, and secrets with since childhood?

    Brotherhood

    Bonded for better or worse, your brother’s someone no one can replace! ‘Brotherhood’ captures this sentiment, exploring the deep connection between two brothers as they journey from post-independence India to the United States. It chronicles their experiences as they navigate the challenges of being doctors in a foreign land, grappling with cultural differences and professional scepticism. Despite these obstacles, the Chopra brothers find their place in America, with Deepak becoming a global spiritual leader and Sanjiv rising to prominence as a Harvard Medical School professor. Tune in to be a part of their story, one that is a testament to resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of the American dream.

    A House without Windows

    In this audiobook, the bonds between women, forged in the most unlikely of places, illuminate the complexities of sisterhood in a harsh, traditional society. When Zeba is accused of her husband’s brutal murder, she finds herself in prison, surrounded by other women whose lives have also been torn apart by the harsh judgments of their society. As they share their stories, these women, each broken in her own way, forge a bond that transcends the walls of their cell, becoming each other’s strength and solace. Zeba’s fate lies in the hands of Yusuf, her Afghan-American lawyer, but it’s the unbreakable bond with her fellow inmates that truly defines her fight for justice.

    Shadow Sibings

    In the audiobook, Emma, a young girl, navigates life in the shadow of her brother’s medical condition. Rather than feeling overlooked, she discovers that her true superpower lies in supporting him, turning her role into one of strength and purpose. As she meets other children with siblings facing their own challenges, Emma realises she’s part of a special, unspoken bond among “shadow siblings,” those who shine brightest by lifting up their brothers and sisters. This is a story of hope, love, and acceptance ideal for all ages while bringing a spotlight to kids who we affectionately refer to as Shadow Siblings.

    Dil Dhadakne Do

    The Mehra family is celebrating Kamal and Neelam’s 30th wedding anniversary with a luxurious Mediterranean cruise, but beneath the glamour lies a web of strained relationships and hidden desires. The couple’s children, Ayesha and Kabir, navigate their complicated lives—Ayesha, stuck in a loveless marriage, rekindles feelings for her childhood love, Sunny, while Kabir dreams of breaking free from the family business to pursue his passion. As the cruise unfolds, the bonds between them are tested, revealing long-buried truths that force the family to confront their past mistakes and ultimately bring them closer together in unexpected ways. 

    Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham

    In a tale of family bonds tested by tradition and class divides, Yashvardhan Raichand’s strict adherence to his final word leads to the heart-wrenching separation of his adopted son Rahul. As Rahul defies his father’s wishes by marrying the spirited Anjali, his younger brother Rohan is left to piece together the broken ties years later. Determined to reunite the family, Rohan sets on a journey to bring his estranged brother back home, rekindling the deep bond between siblings and challenging the very traditions that tore them apart. If you’re looking to enjoy a story of love, forgiveness, and the enduring strength of family ties, this is the perfect watch for you.

    Chasing Happiness

    ‘Chasing Happiness’ is a story of brotherhood that takes you behind the scenes of the Jonas Brothers’ journey from humble beginnings as pastor’s sons in New Jersey to global superstardom. Their bond seemed unbreakable until a painful breakup sent Joe, Kevin, and Nick down separate paths, testing their relationship like never before. Through intimate interviews and rare footage, this story reveals the unshakable connection that ultimately brought them back together, stronger than ever.

  • Must-listen audiobooks and must-watch movies celebrating friendship

    Must-listen audiobooks and must-watch movies celebrating friendship

    Mumbai: Friends make good days better, bad days bearable and trips unforgettable. This Friendship Day don’t forget to cherish those who bring method to your madness, the ying to your yang and the ones who pick up your calls at 4 a.m.! This list of audio titles, films and web series captures the essence of each kind of friendship you have. This list is perfect for your Friendship Day marathon for the friends who are close as well as those miles away. Tune in for a fun Sunday binge with your buddies this Friendship Day.

    Desi Down Under

    Platform: Audible

    Childhood friends feel like a warm cup of chai on a rainy day. Set on the shores of Sydney, this Audible Original is a coming-of-age story that follows three hopeful 20-somethings from Mangalore – Devan (Adarsh Gourav), Meenu (Prajakta Koli) and Rahul (Taaruk Raina) trying to learn surf-lifesaving skills at Coogee Beach in Australia. They are each facing their personal demons while trying to qualify as a team to earn the Bronze Medallion. But the good part is they have each other’s back on this wild trip! Listen to this funny and uplifting comedy about friendship, dream fulfilment, culture clash, and humanity, in English and Hindi, on Audible.

    The Three Mistakes of My Life

    Platform: Audible

    Adapted for screen as the film ‘Kai Po Che’, this audiobook written by Chetan Bhagat has been loved by all – readers and viewers alike! This story is of a young boy who dreams of owning a business and opening a cricket shop to accommodate his friend’s passion. But the odds are stacked against them. Nothing is easy in a turbulent city – religious politics, calamities and unacceptable love stand in the way of them realising their dream. Will this put their friendship to the test? Tune into this dark, witty tale about modern India, where the author brings the ethos and isolation of an entire generation to the fore.

    No Man Is An Island

    Platform: Audible

    ‘No Man is an Island’ is a heartwarming collection of classic tales like ‘The Woman on Platform No. 8’, in which a mysterious stranger befriends a young boy, and ‘The Crooked Tree’, in which a writer and a hawker form an unlikely bond. Ruskin Bond, in his simple yet poignant style, writes about the many shades of friendship and camaraderie in this audiobook. Listen in for refreshing stories on friendship from India’s beloved author!

    Benefits with Friends

    Platform: Audible

    Ever thought about the conversations you could have with your best friends to take your friendship to a deeper level? Canadian comedians and actors Mae Martin and Sabrina Jalees are best friends of more than 20 years and they share the conversations friends should be having to truly get to know each other. Benefits with Friends deep dives into topics like money, gender, parenting, kink and shame. A must-listen with your best friend, this audio series will empower you to let go of your inhibitions and take your friendship a notch higher!

    Dil Dosti Dilemma

    Platform: Amazon Prime

    Asmara is sent to her grandparents’ neighbourhood as punishment. But she lies to her friends about being in Canada to save face. She is not happy about the traditional setting. But this punishment becomes a blessing in disguise when she finds genuine friendship, life lessons and a hint of romance in the neighbourhood. She is faced with the dilemma of either keeping her truth hidden or finding the courage to be herself. Tune in for a story of friendship, growth and twists!

    Madgaon Express

    Platform: Amazon Prime

    Will that much-awaited Goa trip make it out of the group chat? Madgaon Express is a mad story of a trip which did! Dodo (Divyenndu), Ayush (Avinash Tiwary) and Pinku (Pratik Gandhi) are three childhood friends who wanted to go to Goa together. Bad decisions and bad luck have them deal with one tragedy after another but through it all, their friendship shines through. If you’re also a part of the ‘We are planning a trip to Goa’ gang, this film is bound to leave you in splits.

    Crew

    Platform: Netflix

    Shared experiences bring people closer. That is what happened with Geeta (Tabu), Jasmine (Kareena Kapoor Khan) and Divya (Kriti Sanon) who are strapped for cash. Another thing they have in common is they work as flight attendants on Kohinoor Airlines. But as their luck would have it, it is only a matter of time before Kohinoor Airlines goes bankrupt. The trio covertly join in on a gold smuggling operation to get out of their sorry situation. Will they be successful or will they get caught? Tune in to watch this heist comedy and the series of events that unfold.

    Kho Gaye Hum Kahan

    Platform: Netflix

    From the makers of cult classics like ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ and ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara’, comes ‘Kho Gaye Hum Kahan’, a story of three best friends juggling life as 20-somethings in Mumbai.  This urban dramedy explores friendship, ambition, and love in the age of social media and its impact on our lives. Starring Adarsh Gourav, Ananya Panday and Siddhant Chaturvedi, Kho Gaye Hum Kahan is a must-watch with friends, this film on modern friendships is relatable, packed with fun and drama and makes you ponder about how much of our life is controlled by social media perceptions.

  • Marvel Entertainment and Audible present Marvel’s Wastelanders: Doom

    Marvel Entertainment and Audible present Marvel’s Wastelanders: Doom

    Mumbai: Audible, a producer and provider of premium audio content, has announced the upcoming release of the fifth season of the Hindi Audible Original podcast series Marvel’s Wastelanders.

    The new season, Marvel’s Wastelanders: Doom, launches on 4 September 2024, with Ashish Vidyarthi as the voice of Doom and Yashaswini Dayama as Valeria Richards.

    Imagine a desolate world where superheroes have fallen and supervillains rise to power, painting a bleak new reality. Get ready for Marvel’s Wastelanders: Doom, the latest electrifying season in the critically acclaimed Marvel’s Wastelanders audio series. This gripping series transports listeners to a ravaged Earth where Doctor Doom, having triumphed over his rivals, rules with an iron fist. But as resistance stirs in the shadows, a thrilling tale of rebellion, redemption, and rediscovered heroism unfolds. Marvel’s Wastelanders: Doom is more than just an audio show, it’s a journey into the heart of human resilience. Set to captivate Marvel fans and new listeners alike, tune in and transform your commute or couch into an adventure.

    Marvel’s Wastelanders is the first collaboration between Audible and Marvel Entertainment and Marvel’s Wastelanders: Doom will be released next month with top-quality production, featuring renowned and high-profile actors in the roles of Marvel’s legendary Super Heroes.

    More information on the cast and release date for the finale of Marvel’s Wastelanders series, reuniting all the Super Heroes will be announced at a later date. The six-season audio epic originally launched as an English language series in June 2021.

    The English language version of Marvel’s Wastelanders: Doom was written by Mark Waid and James Kim, story by Mark Waid. Original sound design and music by Mark Henry Phillips.  

    Marvel’s Wastelanders, a Hindi Audible Original podcast series

  • Tune into these six audiobooks written by Dr APJ Abdul Kalam on Audible

    Tune into these six audiobooks written by Dr APJ Abdul Kalam on Audible

    Mumbai: It has been almost a decade since Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam’s passing, but his wisdom is evergreen and shines through even after so many years. The visionary put pen to paper to share his experiences, perspectives, guidance and most importantly, his vision for the future. He spearheaded the technological developments in India that continue to hold us in good stead even today! Known as the people’s President, this celebrated man was ahead of his times in every way. In honour of his contribution to India, we have handpicked a few audiobooks on Audible written by him that will inspire you. 

    Wings of Fire

    Written by: APJ Abdul Kalam, Arun Tiwari; Narrated by: Girish Karnad

    APJ Abdul Kalam’s one and only autobiography is this book, Wings of Fire. The Missile Man of India was once an ordinary boy with a very humble upbringing.  This curious boy with a fire in his belly went on to become the President of India, a visionary scientist, an awardee of the three highest civilian awards. This best selling book has been translated into thirteen languages including Chinese and French. Tune into the story of this iconic man who made making history look easy and get inspired to find your own wings of fire! 

    Forge Your Future

    Written by: A. P. J. Abdul Kalam; Narrated by: Errol Rodrigues 

    Ever wondered what it would be like to ask A. P. J. Abdul Kalam about your problems? It would be  fascinating to get responses from a man with the depth of experiences like his, wouldn’t it? Well, look no further! This novel by A. P. J. Abdul Kalam has the questions that have been asked to him over the years in the 300 plus daily emails, face-to-face meetings and on Facebook. Dr. Kalam has answered the questions taking insights from his own experience, meetings with political and spiritual leaders and books he read. There is a good chance a pertinent question you would like to ask might be in this book. Give this audiobook a listen to get the insights of this wondrous man! 

    Ignited Minds

    Written by: A. P. J. Abdul Kalam; Narrated by: Pradeep Kumar 

    India has been led by some extraordinary leaders. But what stops us from being the best we can be? Dr. Kalam shares valuable insights and reforms we could adopt to fasttrack our growth as a country. He urges us to find our own solutions and role models in our own country instead of looking to other countries. In this book, Dr. Kalam shows us the role models hiding among us. This audiobook is a must-listen for the young minds who want to achieve the extraordinary, for themselves and for the country. 

    My Journey

    Written by: A. P. J. Abdul Kalam; Narrated by: Surjan Singh 

    Tired with the lemons life has thrown at you? Dr. Kalam, in this audiobook, takes you through how he tackled every curveball that came his way. This book captures many emotional accounts shared by him. It elaborates about the people who were instrumental in his life turning out the way it did, the books that helped him navigate challenges and how spirituality gave him the much-needed solace during turbulent times. This audiobook might just change your perspective on problems by making you see them as just a bump on the way. Tune in into his journey here on Audible while you gear up to brave the challenges that come your way.

    You Are Born to Blossom

    Written by: A.P.J Abdul Kalam; Narrated by: Nadir Khan 

    In 2008, Dr. Kalam shared his vision for schools in India for 2020. It would be interesting to go through this audiobook in 2024 to see how much of his vision has been materialised and how much is left to accomplish.  He saw people from rural areas as an underutilised source of talent who could propel information and communication technology to unseen heights. In the book, he highlights many scientists and artists who proved age is no bar to blossom and urges us to create favourable environments to see the growth we want. Tune into this audiobook to get a glimpse of how this visionary man breaks down his vision for the rest to action it. 

    Guiding Souls

    Written by: A. P. J. Abdul Kalam; Narrated by: Nadir Khan 

    This one is for all the tech geeks. Dr. Kalam is given the credit for the development of India’s first satellite launch vehicle.  He contributed significantly to the technological developments in India while working in the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and as the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India. Drawing on his experiences, Dr. Kalam has shared his vision for technology in India for 2020. Tune in to see how ahead of his time he was!

  • Seven must-listen audiobooks & books to celebrate MSD’s seventh chakra of cricket domination!

    Seven must-listen audiobooks & books to celebrate MSD’s seventh chakra of cricket domination!

    Mumbai: Cricket fans have their own lucky number – seven! It is the jersey number forever etched in our memories – the number of Captain Cool, M.S. Dhoni, himself. More than a cricketing legend, M.S. Dhoni is an emotion that unites our nation. In high-pressure situations, he has not only embodied composure and delivered his best performances, but also emerged as a paragon of leadership. Two decades after his Indian cricket team debut, the roars of “Dhoni” and “Thala” still reverberate across stadiums—a testament to the loyalty of his legion of fans. On his birthday this year, celebrate his remarkable journey on and off the field with these seven must-listen and must-read recommendations!

    Do Different

    Platform: Audible

    Out-of-the-box thinking, ruthless pragmatism and an innate ability to understand, define and then redefine the game of cricket are probably the hallmarks of Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s cricket. From hitting countless sixes in his school ground in the sleepy town of Ranchi to finishing a run chase in a World Cup final against Sri Lanka, tune into this audiobook on Dhoni’s power-packed journey through the years. The audiobook features various perspectives on Dhoni’s journey, ranging from his original agent providing insights into the development of brand Dhoni, to an international fast bowler who played alongside MSD since his first-class days.

    The Dhoni Touch

    Platform: Audible

    Listen to this audiobook to discover the different shades of your beloved Thala. In the audiobook, Bharat Sundaresan delves into Dhoni’s life by tracing his closest friends in Ranchi. Through his skilful storytelling, he uncovers the various facets of Dhoni’s persona – the Ranchi boy, the military man, the diplomat, Chennai’s beloved Thala, and the wicketkeeping icon, thus, taking the listeners on a journey to discover the ‘Dhoni touch.’

    The M.S. Dhoni Way: Leadership Masterclass from the Master of the Craft – Pearls of Wisdom

    Platform: Audible

    In this podcast, gain insights into the leadership strategies of the cricketing legend, MSD, as it spotlights his approach to team leadership, strategic manoeuvres, tactical play, and overall perspective on the game. The podcast delves deeper into his sportsman spirit by highlighting his analytical skills, how he harnesses all kinds of players, his attitude towards the game, his blueprint of building a successful team and excerpts from some select post-match presentation interviews.

    Believe

    Platform: Audible

    A chapter in the audiobook Believe delves deep into the camaraderie and bond between Suresh Raina and MS Dhoni, highlighting their journey together on and off the field. Raina recollects meeting Dhoni for the first time during the Dilip Trophy match in Gwalior in February 2005. Sharing rooms and discussing everything under the sun, their close friendship and bond remain intact over time. Tune in to know how Dhoni provided immense support to Raina during his formative years of cricket.

    MSD: The Man, The Leader

    Platform: Audible

    M.S. Dhoni’s journey from a small-town boy to World Cup-winning captain is an inspirational story that is going to be passed down through generations. This book goes beyond the glory and affection he received as a captain and player, exploring Dhoni’s struggles, leadership, and the legacy he has built for himself, bringing hope to aspiring cricketers. Through interviews and real-life stories, the book reveals the man behind the legend, showing anyone can achieve greatness with hard work and self-belief.

    M S Dhoni: Captain Cool

    Platform: Amazon

    Who could have predicted that a young goalkeeper from a small Indian town would rise to become the legendary captain of the national cricket team? This book captures the journey of M.S. Dhoni, chronicling his transformation from humble beginnings to cricketing stardom. It vividly portrays his fearless leadership, bold decisions, and exceptional batting skills, illustrating why he is celebrated as one of the finest players in the last few decades and how he rekindled the nation’s passion for Indian cricket!

    Think and Win like Dhoni

    Platform: Amazon

    ‘Think and Win Like Dhoni’ is a book that goes beyond cricket. It offers insights from Indian captain M.S. Dhoni on staying calm, seizing opportunities, and leading effectively. If you wish to discover the secrets behind Dhoni’s luck and resilience and learn how to get ahead using the same strategies that have made him a legendary figure and youth icon, then this book is the perfect find for you.
     

  • Rujuta Diwekar’s fool-proof guide on staying healthy this monsoon

    Rujuta Diwekar’s fool-proof guide on staying healthy this monsoon

    Mumbai: Are people around you “under the weather” lately? The damp and humid environment creates a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses, leading to an increase in common illnesses like colds and flu.  However, celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar in her audiobook, ‘Eating in The Age of Dieting’ on Audible, elaborates on how maintaining good health during the monsoon is easier than we think. Here are five foods that Rujuta recommends everyone must consume to optimise their health and immunity during this wonderful season!

    1.  Sip your way to health with spiced-up chai

    With monsoon comes the desire to sit by the window sipping a hot cup of chai. This is why Rujuta suggests three easy tips to make that hot cup of tea not only calming but also healthy for the body. She recommends the following:

    . Add ginger and tulsi for digestion and immunity

    . Add lemongrass to prevent bloating and congestion

    . Add black pepper or cinnamon to improve insulin sensitivity

    2. Supercharge your immunity with indigenous produce

    Sharing an insight on consuming locally grown vegetables, Rujuta shares, “The soil during the rains is not suitable for growing green leafy vegetables, and therefore we shift to creepers like dudhi (bottle gourd), pumpkin, karela (bitter gourd), gilka (ridge gourd) and root vegetables like sweet potato, suran (elephant foot yam) and konfal (purple yam). The exception to this rule is the wild and uncultivated greens that shoot up during the season – ambadi (roselle plant), shevla (dragon stalk yam), lingri (fiddlehead fern), to name a few…It’s very important for your gut bacterial diversity and acts as a booster shot for immunity.”

    3. Embrace nutrient-rich grains and millets

    When it comes to monsoons, Rujuta strongly recommends Nachini – “You can eat it as porridge, bhakhri or even a papad.” Additionally, she urges everyone to avoid multigrain breads, attas and biscuits and suggests seasonal substitutes for them. “The season also comes with festivals and special months like Shravan, where the focus shifts to eating smaller millets like Rajgira, Samo, Kuttu, Mandua, etc. Again, have them in traditional preps and in combination with dahi, makhan etc, to ensure optimum assimilation.”

    4. Power up with pulses (nature’s protein) during the wet season

    Rujuta Diwekar sheds light on a fascinating tradition: during monsoons, Indians historically substituted meat and fish with carefully dried and stored pulses from the summer months. These became a source of protein, vitamins, minerals, and even fibre during the season. “The best ones turn into usals, the next grains to dals, the one after that to vadis that can be cooked as sabzi and is often a mix of many pulses and papads. You must incorporate two important pulses in your meals this season: kulith (horsegram), and alsane (Goa beans), great for skin and hair.”

    5. Savour bhajiyas but with a healthy twist

    As the monsoon rains bring their earthy petrichor scent, cravings for comforting foods naturally arise. Talking about the season’s speciality, ‘deep-fried bhajiyas’, she advices, “Use filtered groundnut, mustard or coconut oils, and don’t reuse the oil for cooking afterwards. Without essential fats in the diet, vitamin D cannot be assimilated. Essential fats also help in regulating blood sugar. So apart from being tasty, deep-fried pakoras are healthy too, and for everyone, heart patients, obese and diabetics included, eat them without fear and with the confidence that you know when to stop eating.”

    Insufficient calorie intake during monsoons can weaken our immunity and make us prone to infections, fevers and other ailments. Contrary to popular belief, Rujuta says, “Your taste buds are not against your weight loss plans. They are simply against your plan to lose your immunity and to guard you against a possible crash of your immune system.”  For more expert advice, tune into ‘Eating in the Age of Dieting’ on Audible to optimise your health and well-being, not just during the monsoon, but throughout the year.

  • Jitendra Kumar on acting, cricket and more on Audible’s The Longest Interview

    Jitendra Kumar on acting, cricket and more on Audible’s The Longest Interview

    Mumbai: Jitendra Kumar, the multifaceted actor celebrated as ‘Jeetu Bhaiya’ in Kota Factory and ‘Sachiv ji’ in Panchayat, has captured Indian audiences with his nuanced performances and refreshing presence on screen. Basking in the success of two consecutive streaming hits, Jitendra discusses his journey—from the corridors of IIT to the heart of Bollywood—in a recent conversation with Vaibhav Munjal on The Longest Interview podcast on Audible. We bring you five key takeaways from his conversation on the podcast—read on to discover the untold stories that defined his path to stardom!

    1  About his recent release Panchayat S3 and his experience shooting

    Jitendra said, “I think Panchayat makes me nostalgic. Mai hamesha nostalgia mein rehta hu and Panchayat is that for me. Gaon mein shoot karna difficult hota tha because waha ka weather extremes mein rehta hai…Par jab Mumbai waapas aate ho tab lagta hai ki kab waapas shoot karenge gaon jaa ke?”

    English translation: “It is difficult to shoot in the village because the weather is extreme but once you’re back in the city, you keep wondering when you will go back to the village for the next shoot.”

    2   About his favourite character from Panchayat

    He quickly shared, “Durgesh Kumar. I think Bhushan, woh rockstar hai. Maza aata hai unko dekhne mein. Shuru se hi unke character ko interesting banaya hai. I look forward to watching him on screen. Jab bhi woh aate hai aur perform karte hein tab pura crew bhi enjoy karta hai. Everybody enjoys his performance on set also.”

    English translation: “Durgesh Kumar. I think the character of Bhushan is a rockstar. His character has been interesting right from the beginning and it is fun to watch him. Whenever he performs, the entire crew enjoys watching him.”

    3   About how the acting bug bit him

    He shared, “Jo addiction ya interest aaya filmo ka, yeh mainly Kota wali aadatein hai, 20 din padhaai ki aur puri raat cybercafe mai shutter down kar ke baith gaye. Ek website mili thi jaha 1958 se leke 2008 tak ki filmein thi, waha se dhoondta tha mai. Toh IIT mai maine har tarah ki Bollywood film dekhi hai.”

    English translation: “My interest in films developed when I was in Kota. I studied for 20 days and spent the entire night in the cyber cafe with the shutter down. This is when I found a website that had films from 1958-2008. So, at IIT I watched all kinds of Bollywood films.”

    4   About some cinematic masterpieces that have left an indelible mark on his life

    “Sholay, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Satya, aur Gangs of Wasseypur. Yeh 4 aisi filmein hein jo har decade ko define kiya hai. Inse pehle kuch alag type ki filmein banti thi. Post-Sholay kuch alag tareeke ki banti thi. Post-Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge kuch alag tareeke ka romance shuru hua. Post-Satya ek alag realism aaya, alag tareeke ke faces dikhne lagey…phir hum kahin lost ho gaye filme banate banate…and then finally Gangs of Wasseypur came,” he highlighted how these films breathed new life into the industry and heralded a new era of storytelling.

    English translation: “Sholay, Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge, Satya, and Gangs of Wasseypur are four films that have redefined each decade of Indian cinema. The films that were made post the release of Sholay were different. The release of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge marked the beginning of the romance era. The film Satya led to the creation of more realistic content after which new talent started coming up and Gangs of Wasseypur hit it home with its content and a new genre of filmmaking.”

    5   About his love for cricket

    He said, “I have been a supporter of Royal Challengers Bangalore from the start. Jo mere favourite players uss time pe (Rahul) Dravid, (Anil) Kumble, Zaheer (Khan), (Daniel) Vettori, (Chris) Gayle, (Virat) Kohli, AB De Villiers, jo saare hamesha favourite rahe hai aur jinka game dekhne mein maza aata hai, wo RCB mein the. Isliye wo hi exciting team lagti thi mujhe.” On being asked how it feels to be an RCB fan, he says, “Bohot ganda lagta hai, kabhi lagta hai phone tod do. Har season mein hope deke kuch ajeeb ho jaata hai (laughs).”

    English translation: “All my favourite cricketers from the time – Dravid, Kumble, Khan, Vettori, Gayle, Kohli, AB De Villiers were a part of the RCB team and I enjoyed watching their game. This is why I found that team the most exciting.” On being asked how it feels to be an RCB fan, he says, “I feel very bad when the team doesn’t qualify for the finals. It’s almost like I want to break my phone. Every season I feel hopeful for their victory but it falls apart towards the end.”

    The Longest Interview on Audible is a podcast where actors, writers, filmmakers, and various celebrities come for long conversations about movies, books, food, music, and travel. Tune in to listen to candid conversations with industry veterans such as Manoj Bajpayee, Ratna Pathak Shah, Boman Irani, actors such as Mrunal Thakur, stand-up comics like Zakir Khan, Kenny Sebastian, and more.