Rephonic
Artwork for Masala Podcast: The South Asian feminist podcast

Masala Podcast: The South Asian feminist podcast

Soul Sutras
Identity
Feminism
Mental Health
Cultural Taboos
Tantra
South Asian Culture
Intersectional Feminism
Pleasure
Women's Rights
Mother-Daughter Relationships
Trauma
Motherhood
Belonging
Kama Sutra
Healing
Sexuality
Representation
Comedy
Anxiety
Depression

This multi-award-winning South Asian feminist podcast is all about cultural taboos. Everything from sex, sexuality, periods, menopause, porn, mental health, shame, sexual harassment & more. Considered the biggest South Asian feminist podcast representing the voices & views of South Asian women, exploring intersectional feminism from a South Asian lens, Masala Podcast features some of the world's m... more

PublishesTwice monthlyEpisodes65Founded6 years ago
Categories
EducationPersonal JournalsSociety & CultureSelf-Improvement

Listen to this Podcast

Artwork for Masala Podcast: The South Asian feminist podcast

Latest Episodes

The Pleasure is All Yours: Stop Waiting & Start Owning Your Fire

Why is female pleasure still the ultimate taboo? In our community, we talk about marriage, children, and duty—but we rarely talk about a woman’s right to her own sexual satisfaction.

more

Trauma Healing: It's more than just therapy

For most of my life, I thought being a "strong" South Asian woman meant carrying my burdens in silence. I thought if I just worked harder, ignored the tightness in my chest, and kept moving, the ghosts of ... more

YouTube

Can you ever truly be a "good" daughter while staying true to yourself?

In this episode: understand the the Mother Wound, learn how to stop passing it on.

The bond between a mother and daughter is often described as sacred, but for so many of us, i... more

Masala Podcast is back with the Bad Daughter miniseries. Where we carry on exploring taboo topics, have provocative conversations and challenge patriarchy. Let's go!

GOODBYE GOOD GIRL, HELLO BAD DAUGHTER!

Are you constantly editing yourself, tweaki... more

Tantra and Kamasutra secrets - plus Three Interactive Sensual Meditations

SPICY LIVE EPISODE WITH TANTRA & KAMASUTRA EXPERTS, RECORDED AT LONDON PODCAST FESTIVAL

Explore the power of pleasure and learn how to tap into own your own body’s innate se... more

YouTube

"Can I be a feminist and ask a man to get rid of mice?" An fun, light hearted episode asking questions about feminism. And mice infestations.

Are you a strong feminist? Are you proud of what you've achieved? I know that I am. I own my own house, I p... more

"But where are you really from?" An episode investigating South Asian identity and belonging.

Do you feel like you belong? And where do you feel like you belong the most? Belonging often gives us a sense of fitting in or feeling like we are part of ... more

"Why does resting make me feel guilty?" - Rest feels radical for women, particularly South Asian women. Because we're brought up to work, to serve, to always say yes. We've seen our mothers and grandmothers exhaust themselves endlessly looking after ... more

Key Facts

Accepts Guests
Contact Information
Podcast Host

Recent Guests

Seema Anand
Storyteller and mythologist specializing in the Kama Sutra, author of The Arts of Seduction.
Times of India Plus
Episode: Tantra & Kamasutra: It's not about sex positions
Amba Kahly
Fifth-generation Tantrika shaman focusing on sacred sexuality and ancestral healing.
Episode: Tantra & Kamasutra: It's not about sex positions
Richa Moorjani
Actress known for her role as Kamala in 'Never Have I Ever'
Netflix
Episode: Fargo/Never Have I Ever Star Richa Moorjani on South Asian Beauty
Mira Jacob
Novelist, memoirist, illustrator, and cultural critic
Episode: Racism & Books: Can we fight racists with words?
Aparna Nancherla
LA-based comedian, actor, and writer
Episode: Comedy & depression: Can jokes help mental health? With Aparna Nancherla
Avantika Vandanapu
An 18-year-old actress and producer known for her work in Disney's Spin and the upcoming film Horoscope.
Disney
Episode: Saris in Hollywood: Mean Girls Star Avantika Vandanapu

Host

Sangeeta Pillai
Host of a multi-award-winning podcast focused on South Asian feminist issues and cultural taboos, known for her engaging conversations with inspiring guests.

Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars from 144 ratings
  • Brown Girl Heaven!

    Masala Podcast, where have you been my whole life?! This is the village all us Brown Girls need. And awesome too that it bridges US and UK diasporas - among others. I’m an Indian-born, US-raised, UK professional and there are very few spaces that speak to completely to my vast world. Thank you!! ❤️

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    FriedGreenChillies
    United Kingdom3 years ago
  • A must have podcast for your library

    Sangeeta’s is a voice we’ve needed for a very long time. The topics she discusses with her brilliant guests are the kind of topics we as womxn of south Asian backgrounds know all too well in our bones and deep within our souls. I love the way Sangeeta brings these topics out into the open to look at honestly and without judgement. We need to keep having these conversations.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Archana Ambily
    United Kingdom3 years ago
  • A true original

    Sangeeta is a feminist of the kind we need more of: inclusive, warm, empathetic and compassionate - all of which is reflected in her choice of guests and the insightful conversations she has with them. Bravo to a podcasting pioneer dedicated to empowering those whose voices have too often gone unheard!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    JelebiBaby
    United Kingdom3 years ago
  • A v special poddie

    I love these conversations so much. They’re insightful, funny, comforting, thoughtful. Sangeeta has such a gorgeous way of having difficult & radical conversations that you rarely hear between desi womxn. We really need this honesty, these explorations into everything we are & could be. Truly inspiring & I think the sound of Sangeeta laughing at the patriarchy is one of my favourite things.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    SS Haque
    United Kingdom3 years ago
  • Brilliant feminist podcast

    Sangeeta explores so many important feminist topics: from periods to menopause, from divorce to motherhood. All of these were themes that I could really relate to, even as a non South Asian woman. I’d recommend all women listen to Masala Podcast, you’ll love it!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    AnnDodge
    United Kingdom3 years ago
  • Sassy, smart and educational

    I love how bold, unapologetic and original this podcast is.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    SDLouise
    United Kingdom3 years ago
  • I💖Masala Podcast

    What a brilliant podcast. Sangeeta’s conversational style when discussing so called ‘taboo’ subjects with intelligent, interesting and courageous women is an utter joy to listen to.

    The podcast makes me laugh, cry and everything in between.

    Well done for turning your dream into a reality as a podcaster sangeeta, you are truly inspirational xx

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    TBo Betti
    United Kingdom3 years ago
  • Eye-opening & uplifting

    My wife is south Asian and introduced me to Masala Podcast. As a white male, I'm glad that she did as it’s opened my eyes to the stigma and taboos south Asian women face. The episodes are really interesting and showcase how strong south Asian women truly are which is uplifting. This is a podcast for everyone and I highly recommend it to all.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Jamez2222
    United Kingdom3 years ago
  • Excellent listen

    A great podcast touching on taboo subjects that need to be discussed more openly without south Asian communities. Sangeeta creates much needed space to discuss and engage with these topics safely.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Zeba Talkhani
    United Kingdom3 years ago
  • An absolute must listen podcast!

    As a south Asian woman this is the podcast I have been waiting for my whole life! Amazing guests like Poorna Bell, taboo topics taken had on and most importantly representation!!! A must listen for all women please keep it coming Sangeeta!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    lizzie.g.m
    United Kingdom4 years ago
  • Crossing cultures with truth and humour

    Every podcast has touched me in an unexpected manner!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Farm-Girl-City-Girl
    Netherlands4 years ago
  • Truly inspiring

    I loved the episodes and listened to every single one of them. As a woman I can relate with the stories that each speaker shares!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Ssasskia
    South Africa4 years ago
  • Sari, not sorry!

    Love Sangeeta’s energy, tenacity and transparency - really pleased to have come across the Masala podcast as it represents a silent generation of SA women who need to be heard!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    MissAnnaBella
    United Kingdom4 years ago
  • Love it!

    This is the most inspiring and incredible podcast. I love the authentic guests and realness of Masala Podcast.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Vix South Africa
    South Africa4 years ago
  • Brave, honest and helping women to become equals

    I have recently started listening to Sangeeta’s podcasts. She has bravely tackled subjects that others would may be too afraid to stand up to tackle.

    She is challenging behaviours set down by other South Asian women and patriarchy. Something that has been a long time coming. There are certain elements of conversations and those speaking on her podcasts where I can relate to in terms of my own life experiences.

    It is nice to know that I am not the only one going through similar experiences. more

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Tajinder 2018
    United Kingdom4 years ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

Listeners praise the show for addressing critical taboo topics in South Asian culture, providing a voice for women's experiences.
The content is regarded as both empowering and eye-opening, expanding listeners' perspectives on gender and cultural norms.
The engaging style of conversation and the warmth of the host have been highlighted positively.
Many appreciate the representation and authenticity of the stories shared, making them feel less alone in their experiences.

Chart Rankings

How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.

Top Personal Journals Podcasts

Miss Me?
Miss Me?BBC Sounds
Scary | A Paranormal Podcast
Scary | A Paranormal PodcastReal-Life Paranormal Stories
Private Parts
Private PartsSpirit Studios
Heavyweight
HeavyweightPushkin Industries
The Dark Paranormal
The Dark ParanormalThe Dark Paranormal

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

Tantra & Kamasutra: It's not about sex positions
Q: How do you perceive the Western understanding of the Kama Sutra?
In the West, the Kama Sutra and Tantra are often reduce to mere sex positions, missing the deeper cultural and emotional significance embedded in these practices.
Tantra & Kamasutra: It's not about sex positions
Q: Can you tell us a little bit about the historical context of the Kama Sutra?
The Kama Sutra was written in the context of a time when women were not educated and was aimed at helping wealthy men live fulfilling lives, focusing on various aspects of love and pleasure, not just sexual positions.
Saris in Hollywood: Mean Girls Star Avantika Vandanapu
Q: So let's talk about Spin. So you were the first ever Indian-American lead of a Disney original film, Spin.
Avantika describes how this role was her first big break and opened many doors for her in her career.
Saris in Hollywood: Mean Girls Star Avantika Vandanapu
Q: Did you find any barriers to a young brown woman trying to find work in Hollywood at that time?
Avantika reflects that there were challenges but acknowledges that the industry was changing for the better during her entry, with more opportunities available than before.
Comedy & depression: Can jokes help mental health? With Aparna Nancherla
Q: What does it feel like for you, these things?
For me, anxiety feels activating and panicky, while depression feels like a constant presence that I’ve learned to manage.

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

Gender Skew
Location
Interests
Professions
Age Range
Household Income
Social Media Reach

Frequently Asked Questions About This Podcast

What is This Podcast about and what kind of topics does it cover?

The content focuses on cultural taboos within the South Asian feminist community, addressing topics such as sex, mental health, parenting, and identity. Listeners can expect insightful conversations that tackle traditional norms and empower South Asian women to express their stories and struggles. It features personal journeys and experiences that resonate with many, revealing the complexities of life as a South Asian woman while also showcasing diverse perspectives through interviews with inspiring guests.

Where can I find podcast stats for this podcast?

Rephonic provides a wide range of podcast stats for this podcast. We scanned the web and collated all of the information that we could find in our comprehensive podcast database. See how many people listen to this podcast and access YouTube viewership numbers, download stats, audience demographics, chart rankings, ratings, reviews and more.

How many listeners does this podcast get?

Rephonic provides a full set of podcast information for three million podcasts, including the number of listeners. View further listenership figures for this podcast, including podcast download numbers and subscriber numbers, so you can make better decisions about which podcasts to sponsor or be a guest on. You will need to upgrade your account to access this premium data.

What are the audience demographics for this podcast?

Rephonic provides comprehensive predictive audience data for this podcast, including gender skew, age, country, political leaning, income, professions, education level, and interests. You can access these listener demographics by upgrading your account.

How many subscribers and views does this podcast have?

To see how many followers or subscribers this podcast has on Spotify and other platforms such as Castbox and Podcast Addict, simply upgrade your account. You'll also find viewership figures for their YouTube channel if they have one.

How many episodes of this podcast are there?

this podcast launched 6 years ago and published 65 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

How do I contact this podcast?

Our systems regularly scour the web to find email addresses and social media links for this podcast. We scanned the web and collated all of the contact information that we could find in our podcast database. But in the unlikely event that you can't find what you're looking for, our concierge service lets you request our research team to source better contacts for you.

Where can I see ratings and reviews for this podcast?

Rephonic pulls ratings and reviews for this podcast from multiple sources, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Castbox, and Podcast Addict.

View all the reviews in one place instead of visiting each platform individually and use this information to decide if a show is worth pitching or not.

How do I access podcast episode transcripts for this podcast?

Rephonic provides full transcripts for episodes of this podcast. Search within each transcript for your keywords, whether they be topics, brands or people, and figure out if it's worth pitching as a guest or sponsor. You can even set-up alerts to get notified when your keywords are mentioned.

What guests have appeared on this podcast?

Recent guests on this podcast include:

1. Seema Anand
2. Amba Kahly
3. Richa Moorjani
4. Mira Jacob
5. Aparna Nancherla
6. Avantika Vandanapu

To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.

Find and pitch the right podcasts

We help savvy brands, marketers and PR professionals to find the right podcasts for any topic or niche. Get the data and contacts you need to pitch podcasts at scale and turn listeners into customers.
Try it free for 7 days