Durex debuts podcast with Abhay Deol, breaking taboos on intimacy

Durex, a global brand of sexual health and wellbeing, has launched The Durex Podcast, its first-ever podcast in India, hosted by acclaimed actor Abhay Deol. The show aims to foster open, candid, and informed discussions about intimacy and pleasure, breaking long-held societal taboos.
Despite evolving attitudes, conversations around intimacy in India remain largely unspoken. According to Durex’s Global Sex Survey 2024, 53% of Indians still consider sex a private matter that shouldn’t be openly discussed. This silence often leads to misconceptions, unrealistic expectations, performance anxiety, and dissatisfactory intimate experiences. The Durex Podcast seeks to challenge these barriers, normalizing conversations that encourage confidence, understanding, and a more fulfilling intimate life.

Under the theme "Let’s End Good Sex," the podcast pushes the narrative that intimacy should go beyond just being "good"—it should be truly fulfilling. Featuring a diverse mix of guests, the series brings together engaging and thought-provoking discussions on pleasure and relationships. Known for his fearless approach to unconventional topics, host Abhay Deol ensures these conversations are insightful, engaging, and free from stigma.

Kanika Kalra, Regional Marketing Director, Health, Reckitt - South Asia, emphasized the brand’s commitment to breaking taboos: “When it comes to intimacy, misinformation, myths, and half-truths often shape perceptions. At Durex, we believe it’s time to challenge these misconceptions. Young consumers today seek real, unfiltered conversations about intimacy without stigma, and that insight led to the creation of The Durex Podcast. This platform is designed to foster open, honest, and relatable discussions in a format that resonates with today’s youth.”

Abhay Deol shared his excitement about leading these conversations: “I’ve always believed in starting conversations that matter. This podcast creates a judgment-free space to openly talk about intimacy—what it truly means for a new generation. By normalizing these discussions, we can help people feel more comfortable with themselves and their partners. I’m thrilled to be part of this journey with Durex, helping shift the narrative in an empowering and relatable way.”

The first episode, titled "Let’s End Good Sex for Married Couples," features celebrated comedian and actor Vir Das alongside acclaimed actress and writer Kalki Koechlin. Together, they explore the expectations, challenges, and evolving dynamics of intimacy within marriage—breaking down taboos with humor and honesty.