Anjali Phougat’s talk show titled Designer Dream Collection Diva Series that debuted last year has had a decent run – Jyothi Venkatesh

The first installment saw celebrities including Shilpa Shirodkar, Dolly Jain and Deepika Amin, among others gracing as special guests on the show.

The next edition had many more prominent names including Padmini Kolhapure’s sister Tejaswini Kolhapure.

“I started the chat show last year and had the privilege of talking to a number of actors and designers.

Diva series is a tribute to all those extraordinary divas, who made the most of their lives, have been an inspiration to many.

Take Tejaswini Kolhapure for example. She’s handling her father’s non-profit fund and helping many.

Everyone I interviewed has contributed some or the other way to many social causes. Through this series I wanted to convey that fashion is not just about wearing good and stylish clothes but being good to others, helping those in need is also fashionable as that one can make this world a better place,” she elaborates the idea behind the series.

A fan of shows hosted by Ellen DeGeneres, Oprah Winfrey and Simi Garewal, Anjali feels chat shows are more than just a casual conversation with a celebrity.

“Behind all that glitz and glamour is a heart that has seen many storms yet stood strong. That’s what we want to highlight We’re happy with the response around the show and let me tell everyone that the journey of Designer Dream Collection Diva Series never ends, I will do it when I find the right cause and association,” shares Anjali, who is also the host of the chat show Just A Conversation.

Given her experience we ask her about the essentials of a celebrity talk show host and why?

“To begin, you have to be a really good listener and must know how to formulate your questions.

One important quality that a good talk show host must have is the understanding regarding when to stop talking and start listening to the guest.

Some talk show hosts are great speakers who can keep the audience engaged with the topic on one hand but they fail to give enough time for the guest to speak.

Also, as an on-camera host, you should be well-versed in the subject that you’re talking about. Conduct thorough research before you start.

And always remember your audience is king and your job is to make them happy, provide them with interesting facts. Being confident, energetic and professional are keys to success,” she concludes.