In this episode of Love Matters, host Leeza Mangaldas welcomes writer Karuna Ezara Parikh for an intimate conversation about a woman’s relationship with her body. Known for her acclaimed works, including The Heart Asks Pleasure First, Karuna shares her deeply personal journey, from navigating the pressures of the media’s gaze to being diagnosed with lung cancer. Together, they discuss self-care, societal expectations, and reclaiming agency over one’s body. Karuna also reflects on how her diagnosis reshaped her perspective on health, beauty, and life itself. This heartfelt episode offers insights and inspiration for anyone seeking to redefine their relationship with themselves.

Leeza Mangaldas’ Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/leezamangaldas/

Karuna Ezara Parikh's Social handles:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/karunaezara/
X- https://x.com/karunaparikh

Credits:

Produced by:
Patricia Szilagyi (DW)
Charulata Biswas (IE)
Khyati Rajvanshi (IE)

Researcher & Editor:
Sana Rizvi (DW)

Audio Editor:
Suresh Pawar (IE)

Project Manager:
Patricia Szilagyi (DW)

Executive Producer:
Melanie von Marschalck (DW Life & Style)
Anant Nath Sharma (IE)

Love Matters with Leeza Mangaldas is a cooperation between The Indian Express and DW, Germany’s international broadcaster.

Learn more about DW:  
https://www.dw.com

Get in touch lovematters@dw.com