From one of Indian television’s biggest stars to a Union Minister, Smriti Irani has lived many lives.

In this episode of India, Russia and the World with Runjhun Sharma, Smriti Irani reflects on her extraordinary journey and what it means to wield power as a woman in politics. Irani also shares her experience of working with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for over two decades, describing him as a leader who pushes those around him to do better.

She goes down memory lane, recalling Vladimir Putin’s message at the inauguration of the AK-203 rifle factory in Amethi. “As somebody who’s had a lifelong desire of shaking the hand of Vladimir Putin, for me it was a personal big high and for the region it was a matter of great pride,” Irani said.

On the West’s discomfort with India’s friendship with Russia, Irani says the best of friendships are those that need no explanation. Watch the full video for more.