In this episode of Decoding Quirks, Aditi Chandanani sits down with Sahil Sajan — young entrepreneur, director at Danube Group, and a fresh voice from Dubai’s next-gen business scene — for a raw, honest, and wide-ranging conversation that pulls no punches.From the silent struggles men face around therapy and emotional expression, to decoding friendship red flags, people-pleasing, and self-sabotage — this episode dives deep into the patterns that define our mental health today. Aditi and Sahil explore whether “mental health days” are valid or overused, how upbringing in Mumbai vs. Dubai shapes mindset, and what it really means to move on after obsession, heartbreak, or fake friendships.They also open up about life in Dubai — from dating culture, late-night drives, and fake feminism to the rising vaping scene and what it's like growing up in a world of privilege and pressure. Whether you're a young adult navigating identity, career, or connection, this episode will hit home. Unfiltered, thought-provoking, and deeply relatable — this one’s not just a conversation, it’s a reality check.

In today’s episode, Aditi is joined by Mahreen—an inspiring Pakistani-Canadian storyteller, creator-economy enthusiast, and the host & founder of Karak with Mahreen, a semi-weekly podcast that delves into identity, culture, and leadership. As a prominent voice in youth empowerment across the UAE, Mahreen brings her deep curiosity and inclusive insights to each conversation.Mahreen and Aditi navigate a rich tapestry of topics—from alcohol in desi culture and the fine line between feminism and pseudo-feminism, to why arranged marriages are evolving, whether love marriages now hold more sway, and the lingering myths around rebellious “good girl syndrome.” They also confront the pressures of hustle culture, the nuanced dynamics around gold-digger labels even for ambitious women, and how men and women both face new emotional landscapes—from insecurity and divorce trends in South Asian families, to complex relationships, live-in arrangements, and the privileges tied to family understanding or life in Dubai.In this eye-opening discussion, they weave together real-world experiences and cultural critiques—touching on domestic abuse normalization, the emotional labor expected of women, the challenges of being raised to conform, and the empowerment that comes from questioning old norms. It’s a powerful dialogue that champions reclaiming one’s identity, clarifying intentions beyond superficial labels, and navigating life with both insight and intention.

In this compelling episode of Decoding Quirks, Aditi is joined by Smriti Kiran—independent creator, media consultant, and former Artistic Director of the Mumbai Film Festival. With her rich experience in the film industry and a strong voice in feminist discourse, Smriti offers sharp insights into identity, power, and societal expectations. They begin with a candid discussion on feminism and patriarchy, and how these forces shape women's lives both publicly and privately. Smriti then opens up about dating after divorce, reflecting on the emotional and social complexities of starting over after a long marriage.

The conversation moves to the workplace and film industry, unpacking toxic cultures, power imbalances, and how traditional structures often exclude women. Smriti shares the isolation female leaders face and the urgent need for inclusive leadership. They also explore gender dynamics in friendships, media portrayals of women, sexual harassment, and the legacy of the MeToo movement. Emphasizing the power of boundaries, this episode is a raw, personal, and provocative look at what it means to be a woman today—a call to rethink, resist, and reclaim.