EP-356 | Prahlad Kakkar on Aishwarya-Salman Feud, Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka, Ad Filmmaking & More

EP-356 | Prahlad Kakkar on Aishwarya-Salman Feud, Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka, Ad Filmmaking & More

Author: Asian News International (ANI) October 23, 2025 Duration: 1:10:39

Prahlad Kakkar is one of India’s most iconic ad filmmakers. He is the man behind some of the most memorable commercials in Indian advertising history, including “Yehi Hai Right Choice Baby! Aha!” for Pepsi and the “2 Minutes!” Maggi noodles ad. Known for his sharp wit, creativity, and fearless storytelling, he is called the ‘adman’ of India. For over 40 years, Kakkar has changed how brands talk to people through advertisements.


In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Prahlad Kakkar talks about the golden era of Indian advertising, his collaborations with Bollywood stars like Shah Rukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai, and Priyanka Chopra, and the unforgettable Salman-Aishwarya feud that made headlines.


He shares insights into how ads became a mirror of Indian society, the craft of storytelling in 30 seconds, and why today’s advertising world lacks the madness and maverick spirit it once had.



Timestamps


00:00 – Intro

00:37 – Iconic Ads

01:30 – Prahlad’s Favourite Ad

06:16 – Pepsi Ad Story

09:37 – Aishwarya’s Pepsi Casting

12:54 – Aamir’s Pepsi Casting

15:55 – Maggi Ad Idea

24:14 – Maggi Ketchup Ad Story

33:03 – Understanding Audience Pulse

37:09 – When Actors Misfit Ads

39:11 – Big B as Perfect Fit for Ad

42:20 – Shabana & Smita Era

47:54 – Aishwarya vs Sushmita

51:18 – Aishwarya–Salman Feud

55:34 – Sridevi & Hema Era

59:30 – Ad Films vs Feature Films

1:00:42 – Deepika–Priyanka 'Clash'

1:02:47 – Quick Reactions on Stars


Conversations that shape our world often happen behind closed doors or in the quiet moments after the headlines fade. ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash pulls up a chair to those discussions, offering a direct line to the minds of influential figures. Hosted by veteran journalist Smita Prakash, this series moves beyond the soundbite, creating a space where politicians, athletes, artists, and thinkers can explore the nuances of the issues that define contemporary India and global affairs. The dialogue here is driven by curiosity and a commitment to depth, allowing guests to elaborate on their perspectives, their decisions, and the personal experiences that inform their public lives. You will hear candid reflections on current events, policy debates, and cultural shifts, all through the lens of those at the center of the story. Produced by Asian News International, the podcast leverages a legacy of journalistic access and integrity, ensuring every conversation is both insightful and substantive. It’s more than an interview; it’s an opportunity to understand the motivations and narratives driving today’s news. For anyone looking to move past the surface and engage with the substance of politics, society, and human endeavor, this podcast provides a consistently thoughtful and compelling listen.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash
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