In this special episode of Punch Dialogue , we sit down with The Honourable Gary Anandasangaree — Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Minister of Crown-Indigenous relations and northern affairs, and long-time MP for Scarborough - Rouge Park. From his roots as a human rights lawyer and community advocate to his current role shaping national policy, Gary opens up about the journey, the challenges, and the responsibility that comes with representation. We talk about his work in Indi...
Apr 10, 2025•58 min•Season 1Ep. 35
In this episode of Punch Dialogue , we chop it up with Suriya The Flash about everything from his viral Toronto slang videos on TikTok to his boxing, and calls out some big names. We dive into his journey as a fighter, boxing on Adin Ross's stream, meeting Fousey, an explanation of some Toronto slang, and how he stays true to his Tamil roots while making big moves. Follow Suriya The Flash: @suriyatheflash on IG https://www.tiktok.com/@suriyatheflash Connect with the Hosts: @basementreels , ...
Mar 11, 2025•46 min•Season 1Ep. 34
We sit down with some of Montreal’s Tamil artists and creatives, Thilak, Thibz and Thusy to dive into the evolution of the Tamil music scene in Canada and around the world. We are behind the scenes of Senan Entertainment's Meenatchi music video. We discuss the challenges and triumphs of being independent artists, the creative process behind their latest music video, and what it takes to push Tamil music to new heights. Follow the Artists: Connect with the Hosts: @basementreels , @krusan.s , ...
Feb 11, 2025•49 min•Season 1Ep. 33
Kru and Tharshan dive into Secret Santa fails and the struggles of last-minute shopping. We also get into the light and dark sides of Deepavali, exploring its cultural significance and some controversial history. We take a look back at the highs and lows of 2024, and share our hopes for 2025. Tune in for laughs, debates, and reflections as we wrap up the year! Please share, give this a 5 star rating, it really helps! Follow the Hosts: @krusan.s | @tharshanr | @basementreels For sponsorships or q...
Dec 24, 2024•30 min•Season 1Ep. 32
In this episode of Punch Dialogue , we’re joined by Lady Pista, a trailblazing Canadian-Tamil DJ and musician who’s redefining the music scene. From breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry to carving out her unique path to success, Lady Pista shares her inspiring journey and the challenges she’s faced along the way. We dive into her creative process, her collaborations with global icons like Teddy Riley and Diljit Dosanjh, and how her Tamil roots influence her music. Whether you're a fan ...
Dec 11, 2024•50 min•Season 1Ep. 31
In this episode of Punch Dialogue , we sit down with Vinsia, a talented Tamil creative, photographer, and actor, to dive into her artistic journey. From acting with Basement Reels to tips on how she overcomes her anxiety, Vinsia shares how her heritage fuels her creative expression. We also explore her personal experiences with mental health and anxiety, her tips for managing struggles, and how she uses the power of manifestation to bring her dreams to life. This conversation is an inspiring rem...
Dec 04, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Season 1Ep. 30
Today we are talking with Ranjith Joseph, a director who's worked in Canada, India and TamilEelam, focusing on stories about Tamil genocide and the struggles back home. He's worked with director Sasi (Pichaikaran, Poo), he directed Sinamkol (2019), and had a new movie released worldwide in 2024 called Oozhi. Oozhi (A Dark Age) - A poignant portrayal of the aftermath of Tamil Genocide in TamilEelam where promises of peace crumble in enduring injustice.Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cytZ...
Nov 26, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 1Ep. 29
We sit down with Dr. Nadia Huq, a Bengali-American child psychologist, to explore the unique challenges and stigmas surrounding mental health in South Asian households. From navigating generational gaps, ADHD, to tackling cultural taboos, Dr. Huq shares her insights on how families can foster open conversations and create supportive environments. Join us as we discuss the importance of mental health awareness and strategies for breaking the silence in South Asian communities. Follow us on IG @ba...
Nov 20, 2024•56 min•Season 1Ep. 28
Today we are talking with David Amirthapalan Billa, who's worked with Basement Reels since the early YouTube sketches. David is a Tamil comedian and content creator who went viral on vine with 6 second comedy skits and is now selling out shows around the world. We talk about how he grows his brand and navigates his comedy journey while constantly improving himself. Follow our hosts @krusan.s @tharshanr @basementreels Extra video clips from this episode are available on our Patreon. Your support ...
Nov 13, 2024•57 min•Season 1Ep. 27
In this episode, Tharshan and Kru explore the fine line between cultural appreciation and appropriation brought up by the Simu Liu Dragon's Den episode, how women save money shopping, and the reality of racism against immigrants. The last topic is deep, so sit back, enjoy and welcome back to Punch Dialogue! Follow Us on Instagram: Stay connected with Punch Dialogue and never miss an update—follow us on IG @basementreels ! Have Questions or Want to Sponsor an Episode? We’d love to hear from you! ...
Nov 06, 2024•48 min
Don't tell amma or appa about this one! (But share with your friends) Sahana, Krusan and Tharshan dive into parenting styles, unfairness in the South Asian family structure, dating life, family advice, and exposing some secrets! Today we are talking with Sahana, who's worked with Basement Reels since the very early YouTube sketches. She also played a leading role in the recent Basement Reels sketch "Cover Girl" which has gone viral with over 4 million views across social media. WATCH COVER GIRL:...
Oct 29, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 1Ep. 25
Today we are talking with Ranjith Joseph, a director who's worked in Canada, India and TamilEelam, focusing on stories about Tamil genocide and the struggles back home. He's worked with director Sasi (Pichaikaran, Poo), he directed Sinamkol (2019), and has a new movie releasing worldwide May 10 2024 called Oozhi. Oozhi (A Dark Age) - A poignant portrayal of the aftermath of Tamil Genocide in TamilEelam where promises of peace crumble in enduring injustice. Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?...
May 04, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 1Ep. 24
Today we are talking with Johnavan, a director who's worked with Sahi Siva, Santhosh Narayanan, and many more. He gets into how he started, working on a new music video in India, and balancing his life as a creative in Toronto. Follow on IG @jvannthomas Hosts @krusan.s @tharshanr @basementreels Video versions from this episode are available on our Patreon. BECOME A PATREON MEMBER: https://www.patreon.com/BasementReels WATCH OUR MOVIE "THE MISADVENTURE OF UNLIKELY HEROES": http...
Apr 17, 2024•51 min•Season 1Ep. 12
We talk with Pravin Mani, a music composer and singer who's worked on classic Tamil and Hindi movies along with producing his own singles. He's worked with A.R. Rahman on movies such as Endhiran, Alai Payuthey, and Slumdog Millionaire. He recently collaborated with Anirudh on a single AO KILELE. Pravin shares embarassing yet funny stories with A.R. Rahman, his time working on big Indian blockbusters, and life as an artist in Canada. Full video versions from this episode are available on our Patr...
Mar 28, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Season 1Ep. 22
Today we are talking with Radies, notorious for going up to strangers and asking "Smash or Pass?", "What are your dating red flags?" and "Which nationality would you not date?". He also is a Tamil independent artist with his new single Rasathi out now. We talk about dating, backlash for his content, and thinking about content creation as a business. Follow on IG @radies.rajakulam Host @krusan.s @basementreels Video versions from this episode are available on our Patreon, plus bonus content not i...
Mar 12, 2024•59 min•Season 1Ep. 21
Making changes in life, staying happy, horoscopes and the idea of free will. Welcome to a new year of the Punch Dialogue podcast! Thank you for enjoying our first year. This episode kicks off a big 2024 for us all. A huge lineup of guests are expected this year so please keep sharing this episode on IG and with friends, it really helps. Find and share on IG @basementreels BECOME A PATREON MEMBER: https://www.patreon.com/BasementReels WATCH OUR MOVIE "THE MISADVENTURE OF UNLIKELY HERO...
Jan 09, 2024•50 min•Season 1Ep. 20
Mathusan "The Tiger" Mahindas is a professional boxer currently with a 5-0 undefeated record. He is the first pro Tamil Canadian boxer, breaking barriers and paving the way in a new space for his generation. We talk about motivation, his workouts, how he got his name, and more. Follow him and watch his next fight LIVE on IG @mathusan13 Video versions from this episode are available on our Patreon, plus bonus content not included in this episode. BECOME A PATREON MEMBER: https://www.patreon....
Nov 23, 2023•54 min•Season 1Ep. 19
She produces, acts, sings, laughs and parents. We talk about navigating a male/white dominated entertainment industry, mental health, acting, and why she calls herself the poster child for "bad Tamil girl". We get into it all with the funny and very informative Vinuja. Follow Vinuja on IG @vinuja.x Video versions from this episode are available on our Patreon. BECOME A PATREON MEMBER: https://www.patreon.com/BasementReels WATCH OUR MOVIE "THE MISADVENTURE OF UNLIKELY HEROES": https://l...
Nov 09, 2023•1 hr•Season 1Ep. 18
Chinnathamizha is a comedian and actor who makes viral videos about getting beat by his mum. His videos have reached around the world, he also produces music and recently headlined a comedy show in Toronto. We talk about his comedy passion, how he became viral, and more. Follow him on IG @chinnathamizha Video versions from this episode are available on our Patreon, plus bonus content not included in this episode. BECOME A PATREON MEMBER: https://www.patreon.com/BasementReels WATCH OUR MO...
Oct 26, 2023•54 min•Season 1Ep. 17
Sunthar V is a Tamil stand-up comedian currently touring his Avanaa Nee? comedy show for audiences around the world. In this episode, Sunthar talks about being queer in the Tamil community, what its like telling his story around the globe, and opens up about his beef with singer Srinivas and Chinmayi. Follow Sunthar on IG @suntharv For tickets visit http://suntharv.com Video versions from this episode are available on our Patreon, plus bonus content not included in this episode. BECOME A PATREON...
Oct 04, 2023•55 min•Season 1Ep. 16
Nisany is a registered psychotherapist qualifying in Ontario. She offers free counseling sessions and is a content creator around mental health. TRIGGER WARNING: In this episode, we talk about depression, abuse, and other topics that might be difficult for some listeners. We talk about finding a therapist, communicating with your parents, abusive relationships, drugs, coping mechanisms, and more. This is meant to open discussions about therapy, counseling and mental health within our South Asian...
Sep 14, 2023•1 hr 6 min•Season 1Ep. 15
Our good friend Kiru comes on to talk about how she got her first acting agent, auditioning for TV and movies roles and landing her first few gigs in movies. We talk about what it means being South Asian and pursuing acting in North Hollywood. This is an inspirational talk for anyone looking to explore the arts. Thanks for your continued support and hope you find this informative and inspiring! This episode is sponsored by Dunston Styles. It is a Tamil Brand focusing on street-wear with a luxury...
Aug 31, 2023•1 hr 4 min
Jesi was a finalist on Canada's Got Talent, he toured with MIA and Anirudh, he's hosted dance competitions around the world, and today he's dishing what his come up was like. We're joined by dance guru Jesi. Listen to the full episode as we go deep into his inspirational journey, and how anyone today can follow their passion in dance/the arts. This episode is sponsored by Dunston Styles. It is a Tamil Brand focusing on street-wear with a luxury touch. The founder of Dunston Styles™ immigrated to...
Aug 17, 2023•1 hr 6 min
Jabar Bains is a South Asian comedian, actor and elementary school teacher. He performs regularly at stand up venues in Toronto, has traveled the world and has crazy stories to share about his travels and journey through comedy. Video versions from this episode are available on our Patreon, plus bonus content not included in this episode. Your support helps us put out more content and keeps us going! BECOME A PATREON MEMBER: https://www.patreon.com/BasementReels WATCH OUR MOVIE "THE MISADV...
Aug 03, 2023•57 min
In this episode, model and nurse Ashley Khan tackles the reality of being a rising model while balancing a full-time career as a nurse. We talk money, parents, seeking a career in the creative arts, work-life balance and more. This episode is sponsored by Queens Takeout and Catering. Located at 2150 Morningside Avenue in Scarborough, Ontario Canada. Stop by or order online for lunch/dinner! They have mouthwatering signature SEAFOOD KOTHU, NOODLES, JAFFNA FRIES, BRIYANI and more for the entire fa...
Jul 22, 2023•1 hr
In this episode, we join musician, comedian and actor Killadi Jay and talk about everything... his new music, acting ventures, dating life, and go even deeper on religion, hustle culture and the woke movement. Video versions from this episode are available on our Patreon, plus bonus content not included in this episode. Your support helps us put out more content and keeps us going! BECOME A PATREON MEMBER: https://www.patreon.com/BasementReels WATCH OUR MOVIE "THE MISADVENTURE OF UNLIKELY HE...
Jun 29, 2023•59 min•Season 1Ep. 10
In this episode, we join Myaspace as she fearlessly dives into taboo topics within the South Asian Tamil community. She hilariously tackles dating and marriage challenges while inspiring listeners to embrace their unique experiences while pursuing content creation as a South Asian Tamil woman. Get ready to laugh, learn, and be inspired in this hilarious and uplifting episode! This episode is sponsored by SnapSmile. Featured on Dragon's Den, Snap Smile is a groundbreaking tech app that combines t...
Jun 15, 2023•1 hr 4 min
In this week, let's laugh and engage in some dialogue as we discuss if immigrants really are taking our jobs, gen Zs/millennials and quiet quitting in the workplace, and Tharhan's Dad doesn't get his lunch which leads us to talk about the overarching South Asian patriarchy and toxic masculinity prevalent in our community, from marriage to home life. Video versions from this episode are available on our Patreon, plus bonus content not included in this episode. Your support helps us put out more c...
Jun 09, 2023•38 min•Season 1Ep. 8
If you're stressed and life if just going awry, then join us as we slow things down and talk about the importance of travel, TV and the delicate art of balancing relationships and work. In this episode, we dive deep into personal experiences and discussions about creating a fulfilling life. Video versions from this episode are available on our Patreon, plus bonus content not included in this episode. Your support helps us put out more content and keeps us going! BECOME A PATREON MEMBER: https:...
May 18, 2023•36 min
Welcome back! Sorry for the hiatus. This week we talk about tipping culture, our love/hate of dogs, getting robbed in broad daylight and our thoughts on Tamil movies vs English movies. Join our discussion by DMing us on IG @basementreels, email us, and ask us any questions you'd like us to answer on future podcast episodes. Video versions from this episode are available on our Patreon, plus bonus content not included in this episode. Your support helps us put out more content and keeps us going!...
May 10, 2023•48 min•Season 1Ep. 6
