Marathi actor Sonali Kulkarni on 13 May launched her podcast series Half Ticket Full Nagrik, a platform designed to centre children and young adults in meaningful conversations about family decisions, travel, finances, and everyday matters where their opinions are routinely overlooked. The show challenges what Kulkarni describes as societal dismissal of younger voices based solely on age.

"I am extremely fond of young people. They have original ideas, they think out of the box, they are fearless and absolutely innocent," Kulkarni said in a statement. "But over the years, I have realised many adults are very quick to dismiss young people and their opinions."

The podcast format and philosophy

Each episode follows a two-part structure: an initial conversation with a "full ticket" — an adult such as a parent, teacher, or psychologist — followed by the main segment featuring a "half ticket," a child guest described as being on the journey toward becoming a full citizen. Kulkarni conducts the child interviews directly in the studio to preserve spontaneity and authenticity.

"I talk to them about their world, our world, their fears, their concerns and their thought process," Kulkarni explained. "The basic rule is that not a single guest should feel uncomfortable or pressured. You will be surprised to see how children use their autonomy and they are so insightful."

Addressing emotional exclusion of children

Kulkarni highlighted a pattern she views as systemic: children are rarely consulted on decisions affecting them, from household choices to broader life plans. "Whether it is making family decisions, travel plans, financial choices, or even simple everyday matters, children are rarely asked what they feel. I feel there is a lot of emotional violence when it comes to younger people," she said.

The podcast aims to reframe this dynamic by granting children agency and recognition. Each child guest receives the Indian Tri-colour and a special trophy inscribed with the message "India is my country and I am a proud Indian."

Industry backing and reach

The series has partnered with AARPAR, a Maharashtra-based communications firm, as its official digital partner. The collaboration signals backing from the regional media ecosystem for Kulkarni's vision of youth-centred storytelling.

The podcast reflects a broader shift in Indian media toward platforming younger perspectives, though Kulkarni's explicit framing of child exclusion as "emotional violence" positions the show as both entertainment and social commentary.