Welcome to a conversation with Neeta Mittal, an innovative entrepreneur and co-founder of LXV Wine. This conversation takes us on a sensory journey from the vineyards of Paso Robles, California to the spice markets of India, exploring the art of human connection in a fast-paced digital world.

In this thought provoking podcast, Neeta weaves together three interconnected themes - Wisdom of the Vine, Alchemy of Senses & Human Touch in the Age of AI.

Throughout this conversation, Neeta intertwines her personal story - from her roots in India to becoming a trailblazer in the California wine industry, offering listeners a unique perspective on how ancient wisdom, sensory artistry and modern innovation can come together in creating a more connected, vibrant future.

Views and opinions expressed in this episode of the Podcast are those of its guest. Creators of this Podcast expressly disclaim any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of this Podcast.

(C) Asha & Milind Agnihotri, 2022-2025

All things are possible for those who believe. This is however easier said than done. Beliefs get tested, some quite severely and some over a long period of time leaving a deep mark on our psyche. How do we hold firm in our beliefs and yet be flexible? How can we shift the needle from ‘Can I?’ to ‘I Can.'? What are the ensuing struggles? What role does a support system play here? What intangibles await us as we pursue of our beliefs?

To explore this subject and more, here’s a conversation with Capt.Nitin Shukla, a commercial pilot with one of India’s most respected airlines and the 100th guest on Wings podcast! His favourite basketball player’s words, "Obstacles don't have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don't turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it or work around it,” and, a support system that always had his back, kept Nitin going for 17 years before he got to Captain a passenger jet aircraft.

Song Credits:
Song: "I believe I can fly"
Soundtrack: Space Jam (1996)
Song writer, producer & performer: R Kelly

Views and opinions expressed in this episode of the Podcast are those of its guest. Creators of this Podcast expressly disclaim any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of this Podcast.

(C) Asha & Milind Agnihotri, 2022-2024

Fear has been a constant companion of human race since hunter-gatherer days. It is a powerful force that creates as well as destroys. Unlike the animal kingdom, however, humans have an innate gift to understand fear in all its entirety. How does fear manifest in everyday life? What about moments of crisis that shakes our very being? How does it trigger an inevitable chain reaction of dysfunctional behaviours? What role does society, culture, religion and technology play in harbouring and amplifying fear? How do we foster awareness and resilience in the wake of fear in order to live through it?

To explore this subject and more, here’s a conversation with Sudha Hooda, an Executive Director and Board Member of a multinational technology company. “I am a proud mother to a loving teenager, a curious soul on a journey of self-discovery, embracing lessons life has to offer each day,” Sudha says.

Views and opinions expressed in this episode of the Podcast are those of its guest. Creators of this Podcast expressly disclaim any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of this Podcast.

(C) Asha & Milind Agnihotri, 2022-2024

Much of who we are is shaped by our personal, work and social roles which evolve in a given context and over a period of time. These roles feed on each other and are further influenced by our choices and compulsions. How does this process manifest in the early stages of life? How does married life and parenthood impact the role matrix? What if this involves a geographical and cultural transition? Across life phases, how does one protect and nurture personal passions? In all this drama, how does one celebrate one’s being and becoming?

To explore this subject and more, here’s a conversation with Shweta Inamdar, a dancer, mother and software engineer currently living and working in Oakland, California in the US. A professional dancer for over 16 years, first with Shiamak Davar Institute in Bangalore and now with Mona Khan Company in San Francisco Bay Area, Shweta truly believes in celebrating life in all its hues & shades.

Views and opinions expressed in this episode of the Podcast are those of its guest. Creators of this Podcast expressly disclaim any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of this Podcast.

(C) Asha & Milind Agnihotri, 2022-2024

Today, music & dance are an integral part of weddings, corporate events, nightlife or private celebrations with professional DJs at the centre stage. They know exactly how to get everyone swaying to their beats, keeping energy high on the dance floor and to provide non-stop entertainment! What goes into being a DJ? What is the art, craft & drama that needs to be mastered? How does a DJ build and sustain a brand for local & international markets? What are the blood, sweat and tears in this highly competitive glam-world of DJ’ing? Who is the person behind a DJs mask?

To explore this subject and more, here’s a conversation with Yashodhan Rege a.k.a. DJ Regge, a dynamic figure known for blending genres and creating an infectious, feel-good atmosphere. With a career spanning nearly two decades, DJ Regge has performed across India and the world with a simple goal - to build on his audience’s energy, getting people on their feet and lost in the music.

Copyrights for soundtracks in this episode belong to the respective owners.

Views and opinions expressed in this episode of the Podcast are those of its guest. Creators of this Podcast expressly disclaim any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of this Podcast.

(C) Asha & Milind Agnihotri, 2022-2024

Finding one’s way through the forest, metaphorically and physically, happens to a chosen few. Every step calls for curiosity, courage, experimentation, openness to learn and constant adaptation. What if this is one’s calling in life? What world’s does it open up? How does a ‘beginner’s mind’ respond to such a calling? What does it mean to be a self-made ‘naturalist’? How does one build a professional work career to share the magic of nature and wildlife?

To explore this subject and more, here’s a conversation with Raghunandan Kulkarni a.k.a. Raghu, founder of ‘Indian Nature Trails,’ a wildlife destination management company, that primarily caters to German clients seeking unforgettable wildlife experiences across the Indian sub-continent. Coming from a humble family background, Raghu has painstakingly pursued his passion for over two decades and built a meaningful career in wildlife tourism.

Views and opinions expressed in this episode of the Podcast are those of its guest. Creators of this Podcast expressly disclaim any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of this Podcast.

(C) Asha & Milind Agnihotri, 2022-2024

An unwavering commitment to the ideals of ‘rasa nishpatti' has ensured survival and growth of ancient Indian art forms much beyond an artist’s life and times. This however has necessitated democratisation, modernisation & institutionalisation of art through structures, systems and processes guided by principles and values. How does an artist partake in this process to experience and expand the art? What are the ensuing trials & tribulations? What mysteries and treasures await in such an endeavour?

To explore this subject and more, here’s a conversation with Arundhati Patwardhan, a multifaceted dancer, choreographer, teacher and a visionary Director of Kalavardhini Dance Company, Pune. With an M.A. in Bharatnatyam and a Nritya Sadhana of nearly four decades, Arundhati is deeply committed to preservation and evolution of Bharatnatyam and to carry forward a rich legacy which she has inherited.

Views and opinions expressed in this episode of the Podcast are those of its guest. Creators of this Podcast expressly disclaim any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of this Podcast.

(C) Asha & Milind Agnihotri, 2022-2024

Raga framework in Indian Classical Music is said to be an ocean replete with mysteries & treasures. A Sangeet Saadhak (student of music) committed to a triad of Taalim (disciplined lessons), Riyaaz (diligent practice) & Adaakaari (authentic performance) gets a chance to experience these mysteries and treasures to bring them forth to their listeners. What is the relationship between Ragas and its Saadhak? What chemistry unfolds between them? What Tapasya (penance) both have to endure and what shape does it take in current times?

To explore this subject and more, here’s a conversation with Yashaswi Sirpotdar, a renowned vocalist with a Sangeet Sadhana of nearly four decades. Her melodious singing has been well received across India including the prestigious Sawai Gandharva Music Festival. She carries forward rich legacies of her Guru Smt. Padmatai Talwalkar, a doyen of Hindustani Khyal music.

This conversation is interspersed with brief impromptu recitations of Raga Des, Yaman, Miya-ki-Todi, Marwa and Bhairavi, sung live by Yashaswi.

Views and opinions expressed in this episode of the Podcast are those of its guest. Creators of this Podcast expressly disclaim any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of this Podcast.

(C) Asha & Milind Agnihotri, 2022-2024