The online space can be delightful if you find the right resources to satiate your interests. One can deep dive into any topic under the sun for excellent study material, relevant and updated news, engaging discussions, and much more. These can be a great way to re-kindle long-forgotten hobbies or cultivate new interests.

Here's a short compilation of my favourite podcasts and series that I enjoy immensely. One only needs a good internet connection and a smartphone to access them.

Kadhaipodcast by Kavitha Jeeva

Mani Ratnam's recent movie based on Kalki Krishnamurti's epic novel Ponniyan Selvan kindled in me a deep curiosity for the story and history. I decided to read the book before watching the movie. As I pondered the monumental task of reading the magnum opus of 5 volumes and keeping up with the vast Chola history within a short time, this podcast came to my rescue. The narrator Kavitha Jeeva released this Tamil podcast series two years ago as weekly episodes. Her engaging storytelling and excellent effort in breaking this convoluted plot into short bytes of a maximum of 15 min kept me hooked from the word go.

If you liked this, you could check out her other series, which include novels like Parthiban Kanavu, Shivagami Sabadham, and more.

Link to watch: https://bit.ly/3EP4ynQ

Jannal Oram by Sikkil Gurucharan

He's no stranger to Carnatic music fans. For the uninitiated, Sikkil Gurucharan is a renowned Carnatic Music vocalist. He even acted in an episode of Putham Puthu Kaalai, a 2020 Tamil Web series. In Jannal Oram, he gives his audience a peek into the nuances of music juxtaposed with appealing themes, such as how types of Taanam singing are inspired by the animal kingdom or decoding the great maestro Illayaraja's music or re-discovering rare gems of yesteryear composers. The young artiste keeps his video short and crisp and engages the audience in a manner that is neither esoteric nor flippant.

Jannal Oram means by the window, and the title is apt as Gurucharan offers us glimpses into the innumerable facets of traditional music as it were in its original form or when woven into cinematic parlance.

Link to watch: https://bit.ly/3gcaLjr

The Sanskrit Channel

As the name suggests, this channel discusses Sanskrit literature in great depth. I chanced upon this treasure trove while researching temples and festivals. I was fascinated by the insights and spectrum of information available on this channel. Several researchers, scholars, and historians explore subjects like art, dance, philosophy, engineering, and much more, discussing and sharing their profound learning and wisdom. From decoding the different Sahasranamans to discovering the mysteries of the Gayatri Mantra to exploring the magnificence and stories about the mighty temples of India, this spiritual and divine space is a haven for those passionate about our Sanata Dharma and the treasure left behind by our sages and ancestors.

Link to watch: https://bit.ly/3s8R0fE

Crikipedia by Ashwin

When he is not making his opponents run for cover with his spin ball show, this talented and modest Indian bowler charms his listeners with his eloquence on his channel. He not only discusses cricket but a range of themes unrelated to cricket in his inimitable tongue-in-cheek humorous style. I'm awed at how well-versed he is in diverse subjects. I particularly enjoy his talk shows, where he invites guests to discuss or chat about topics. He adds chemistry and an infectious vibe with his down-to-earth attitude, a refreshing trait in today's tom-toming times. Even if you're not a cricket fan, you're sure to appreciate the nuances shared via friendly banter.

Link to watch: https://bit.ly/3CVmpXR